Five Benefits of Manual Transmissions
Benefits of Manual Transmissions
There was a time when nearly all vehicles had manual transmissions. However, with automatic transmissions being easier to drive, they have taken over the market. Less than 15% of new vehicles are made with manual transmissions, but those who enjoy driving stick will go out of their way to get one of these cars. While they take more work to drive and require a different skill set, manual transmissions do have their benefits.
Better Gas Mileage
One of the benefits of driving a manual transmission is that you get better gas mileage. This is because automatic transmissions have torque converters that always cause some energy loss. With a manual, there is no torque converter, so less power is needed from the engine to run the transmission. However, with newer automatic cars being built more efficiently, gas mileage in a manual transmission vehicle may be only slightly better.
Cheaper Price Tag
If you’re looking to save a bit of money, a manual transmission might be the better option for you. When building a vehicle that has a manual transmission, there are fewer complicated parts to manufacture, making the car cost less. It is also likely that you will spend less on repairs. Since parts are a bit more simple, they are easier to fix and less likely to cause problems.
More Control
When you drive a stick shift, you have more control over the car itself. When driving, you are manually shifting the gears instead of letting the car do it for you. You might be more experienced in certain road conditions, so you can provide better manual control than an automatic transmission would be able to sense.
Fewer Distractions
Another benefit of driving a manual transmission is that it requires your full attention. You can’t text or give into other distractions easily while driving, because you need to be focusing on shifting gears. When giving your full attention to the road and driving your car, it is more likely that you are practicing safe driving.
More Enjoyable
Many who know how to drive a manual car simply enjoy it more. If you are into cars and love driving, it is likely that you know how to drive a stick, and prefer it. It can make you feel more connected to the car and environment around you, creating a feeling of control and fun that driving an automatic transmission does not provide.
Decide if the Benefits of Manual Transmissions Work for You
Overall, there are benefits to both automatic and manual transmissions. It really comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy the challenge of driving stick, then you’ll be happy to know that there are advantages to using a manual transmission. Just be prepared to put in a little extra work behind the wheel. Thankfully, when you do run into issues, there are transmission experts that you can turn to who will get everything back up and running.
- Published in Transmission
Five Preventative Car Maintenance Checks Before a Road Trip
Preventative Car Maintenance Before a Road Trip
You have enough on your mind while planning a road trip that you might overlook some critical aspects of your car’s health. Most people will think of how much they can store in their car, and how many people can fit comfortably, but unless it has some recurring issues, it probably doesn’t cross their mind to get the car checked out before leaving. However, a preventative car maintenance checkup can help ensure that your vehicle is running smoothly and hopefully avoid any unexpected issues. The last thing you would want is to end up stranded in a strange city with a car problem, throwing off your whole budget and schedule. Here are some things to have your mechanic check on before you leave on your next road trip:
1. Tires
Worn tires can cause a blowout, which could be extremely dangerous at high speeds. Tread depth should be checked and if they are getting close to the minimum tread depth, they should be replaced before you go on your trip. You should also check the tire pressure and make sure that all the tires are inflated to the correct pressure to avoid getting a flat tire miles away from a shop.
2. Brakes
Your brakes should be checked to ensure they are in good condition and will be working properly for a while. The brake pads should be at a good thickness and the fluid levels should be full. Driving with worn-down brakes is dangerous in any situation, but especially dangerous when putting a lot of miles on your vehicle.
3. Exhaust System
If your exhaust system isn’t properly functioning, you may be dealing with poor fuel efficiency or decreased power. You don’t want to be driving for hours only to find out that there was a problem with your exhaust system and you have to fill up on gas much more often. A trained mechanic will be able to spot any potential issues and fix them before they become a problem.
4. Fluids
All the fluids in your car should be at the correct levels and clean. This includes engine oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant. If any of these fluids are low, it could cause problems on your trip. Especially with putting on extended mileage, there is a higher risk of overheating.
5. Transmission
Your car’s transmission is one of the most important parts of your car to have checked before a road trip. If there are any unexpected issues with the transmission, it could mean being stranded in a city you’re not familiar with. If you already have some concerns about your transmission, get it addressed before you go. Otherwise, a preventative maintenance check can catch any potential problems before they become a bigger issue.
Get Preventative Car Maintenance Done Before You Leave
These are just some of the things that should be looked at before you embark on your next road trip. It is better to be safe than sorry, and preventative maintenance can help ensure that your trip goes smoothly. Do yourself a favor and get your car checked out before you hit the open road. Turn to our transmission experts at Trans Works Transmissions in Portage, WI with maintenance questions that you may have, and schedule an appointment to get your car looked over before your next trip.
- Published in Transmission
What Causes Transmission Overheating in Hot Weather
While most of us love summer, it can be tough on our cars. A lot of us spend more time on the road, taking day trips or just enjoying a long drive. The weather alone shouldn’t harm your vehicle, but hot temperatures can contribute to your transmission overheating. Learn more about why your transmission may overheat, and what you can do to prevent it.
What Temperature can a Transmission Handle?
The transmission is designed to operate at high temperatures, usually around 195-220 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that theoretically, warm temperatures alone should not be a cause for overheating transmissions. However, if combined with other factors that lead to an overheating transmission, weather may play a part.
Cooling System Problems
The transmission cooling system is vital to keeping your transmission at a normal operating temperature. If there’s a problem with the cooling system, it can cause the transmission to overheat. This could be due to a failure in the radiator, leaks in the hoses or lines, or an issue with the transmission cooler itself. If the cooling system isn’t working properly, hot weather will have a bigger impact on the temperature of your transmission.
Old Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid helps to cool and lubricate the transmission. Over time, transmission fluid can break down and become less effective. This is especially true in hot weather. If the transmission fluid is old, it may not be able to properly do its job, leading to an overheated transmission. It is recommended to replace transmission fluid every 60,000 to 100,000 miles with an automatic transmission.
Driving Habits
How you drive can also affect transmission temperature. If you are in frequent stop-and-go traffic, your transmission will have to work harder and may overheat as a result. Driving at high speeds for a long period of time can also lead to overheating, as the transmission fluid may not have enough time to properly circulate.
How to Know if Your Transmission Overheats
If your transmission overheats, you may notice leaking or burning. Your vehicle may also slip out of gear or have a delayed response when shifting gears. Other symptoms you may experience could be a burning smell inside and outside of the car, or a grinding sensation when accelerating.
What You Can Do to Prevent Transmission Overheating
There are a few things you can do to prevent transmission overheating:
- Make sure that your transmission fluid is clean and at the correct level.
- Have your transmission serviced regularly to ensure that it’s in good working order.
- If you frequently drive in hot weather or in stop-and-go traffic, try to take breaks when possible to give your transmission a well deserved rest.
If your transmission does overheat, it’s important to have it serviced as soon as possible. Overheating can damage the transmission and lead to serious problems down the road. By being proactive, you can help to prevent transmission overheating and keep your car running smoothly all summer long. Contact us to get your transmission checked by a mechanic and keep it running smoothly year round.
- Published in Transmission
Basics of Transmission Troubleshooting
The Basics of Troubleshooting Your Transmission
Unexpected problems arise with your car’s engine the longer you drive it. If taking your vehicle to an auto repair shop immediately is not an option, knowing basic transmission troubleshooting can be an advantage. It is also a way for you to further prevent expensive repairs or replacements in the future.
Before bringing your car to the shop, you can perform automatic transmission troubleshooting as a cost-effective first step. It is essential to identify the root of the problem as it allows you to get it repaired as quickly as possible at the lowest price. You can follow these steps for basic transmission troubleshooting when you encounter issues with your vehicle:
Try To Determine the Problem First
You know your car best, so you will be the first person to notice when something is off. There are several indicators that can help you determine whether your car’s transmission is having problems. If your car seems to be shifting gears more frequently or if it feels sluggish or jerky when you accelerate, this could be a sign that the transmission needs attention.
Another obvious indication of trouble is an oil leak under your car. Additionally, if you notice a burning smell or notice that the fluid level in the transmission is low, these may also indicate an issue with your transmission.
Check the Transmission Fluid
Most transmission issues are caused by either ineffective fluid or low fluid levels. With this in mind, you must check both the fluid level and condition. A simple dipstick test can help you determine whether or not you need to add more fluid. On the other hand, if your fluid is contaminated, black, or burnt, you may need a complete fluid change.
Check On-Board Diagnostic Codes
If your transmission fluid is not the cause of your problems, checking on board diagnostic codes on your car can be a great way to troubleshoot problems. This uses an OBD2 scanner to analyze information stored by the computer in your car for any potential issues. Overall, checking on board diagnostic codes is a useful tool for anyone who wants to stay on top of their car’s health.
Read a Repair Manual or a Website
If there are no OBD codes that raise concern, the next step is to refer to a repair manual or website for your vehicle’s make and model. They often offer in-depth details about your car and how to fix it. You have to pay extra to access some of these specialized manuals, there are also several websites and mechanical forums that provide free information.
Bring Your Vehicle to a Professional Mechanic
If you still haven’t figured out what is wrong with your automatic transmission, consider a repair shop. This can help prevent further damage as some advanced issues inevitably require professional help.
Go Beyond Basic Transmission Troubleshooting
Though knowing basic automatic transmission troubleshooting is undoubtedly a useful skill, getting your vehicle immediately repaired should be a priority. The best way to prevent further auto issues is to bring your vehicle to Trans Works Transmissions in Portage, WI. Contact us today to make an appointment!
- Published in Transmission
Should I Repair or Replace My Transmission?
If your car has been around for a while, it may almost be time to repair or replace the transmission. There are many factors to help determine which route you need to take. For example, how old is your car, and how many miles do you have on it? Have you had a lot of repairs done previously?
Dealing with transmission problems can be expensive, but it’s extremely important to keep your car running and keep you safe. Therefore, you should address any problems with it immediately. To help figure out if you should repair or replace the transmission, here are some things to consider:
Transmission Repair
For some transmission issues, they might be small enough to be an easy fix. Maybe you just need to replace your transmission fluid or repair some leaks. These fixes are quick, and you might be able to even do it yourself. If you’re not comfortable doing it on your own, hire a mechanic to take a look and replace what’s needed. However, a repair may end up costing more in the long run if there are underlying problems. It’s best to check the following before you decide to repair your car’s transmission:
The Age of Your Vehicle
When the transmission is too old, it may be hard to find parts for it. If your car is getting up there in age, it may not be worth repairing. Your mechanic may also charge you more if it is hard to find parts. It may be time to just replace the transmission, or even the whole car. On the other hand, if your car is under any type of warranty, a repair may be covered.
Vehicle Manufacturing Cost
The cost of your car also comes into play when deciding whether to repair or replace the transmission. Some vehicles are more complex, and more expensive to repair than others. If you have a high-end vehicle, parts and labor will be more expensive in both the repair and replacement of the transmission.
Transmission Replacement
Transmission failure is a clear sign that you have to replace a transmission. However, it may not always be that obvious. If you’re experiencing transmission issues, here are some factors that may have you leaning towards a replacement:
Car’s Repair History
If you have been constantly repairing your car, it may be time to just replace the transmission. You may be getting repair after repair and still not fixing the real problem. The number of previous owners may play a role in deciding whether or not to replace your transmission. If there has been a lot of wear and tear on your transmission that you are unaware of, more issues could keep popping up.
Your Transmission’s Mileage
As your transmission accumulates mileage, it starts to wear down. If you’re at or over 100,000 miles, your transmission may be nearing the end of its lifespan. You should get a comprehensive checkup to see if a replacement is necessary.
Ask an Expert Whether You Need to Repair or Replace Your Transmission
Deciding on whether to repair or replace your car’s transmission can be difficult. You have to consider a lot of factors such as the age and make of your car, repair history, and transmission mileage. If you need help determining the best solution, you can reach out to us at Trans Works Transmissions in Portage, WI. Our specially trained mechanics will address your car’s problems efficiently.
- Published in Transmission
Five Things that Cause Transmission Damage
Five Things that Cause Transmission Damage
A car’s transmission is very important, as it is responsible for your vehicle’s movement. While you can’t prevent regular wear and tear, you can avoid any major damage by taking care of it and avoiding bad driving habits. Additionally, being aware of the things that can damage your transmission will help you save money on transmission repairs. Here are a few things that can damage your transmission:
Neglecting Transmission Fluid
To keep your transmission from causing friction, you’ll need to change your transmission fluid. Your transmission may end up damaging itself without the necessary lubrication. However, the right transmission fluid keeps your car’s transmission from overheating and shutting down.
Accordingly, you’ll want to check your transmission fluid levels from time to time. It also helps to check for leaks, since they can lead to your car breaking down or overheating while driving.
Using the Wrong Transmission Fluid
Your transmission needs a certain type of fluid to keep it running smoothly. Each kind of transmission fluid has different levels of viscosity and mixes that help the car operate properly.
Using the wrong transmission fluid can cause problems for your car. For instance, your vehicle may not get the cooling properties it needs, causing it to overheat and shut down. Using the wrong transmission fluid can also affect your transmission’s performance and create friction with your car’s other parts.
Going Beyond Your Car’s Tow Limit
Even if your vehicle is built to tow, you still need to be careful. It’s best to stick to the indicated weight limits so you can keep your vehicle from overexerting itself.
Going beyond your vehicle’s tow limit can lead to your car overheating and shutting down. Additionally, it can also accelerate the wear and tear of your transmission. You may need to get it repaired or replaced if that happens.
Shifting Gears Before Stopping
There are moments when you shift from drive to reverse quickly without stopping. While some people think that isn’t much of a problem, it can evolve into a bigger issue. The damage may range from a couple of cracks and scratches on your gears to having parts pop out of place. You’ll need to go to a transmission mechanic to get them fixed or replaced.
Putting Off Repairs
It’s a common mistake for people to put off transmission repairs for several reasons. You may be too busy to address these issues, while others think issues won’t get worse. However, transmission problems can escalate further if left alone for a long time. They can lead to more costly repairs and even a full replacement depending on the damage.
For that reason, you’ll want to have your vehicle’s transmission checked periodically to make sure it has no issues. You’ll also want to have a professional inspect your car if you notice anything strange or out of place.
Hire the Right People To Address Your Transmission Repair
Partner with our highly-trained mechanics from Trans Works Transmissions in Portage, WI to handle your transmission-related issues. Contact us now for more information.
- Published in Transmission
Simple Ways To Maintain Your Auto Transmission
There are many ways you can take care of your car’s transmission. Some car owners get into the nitty-gritty bits of maintenance to practically handle the repairs on their own. Sadly, not all car owners can do the same. Others still prefer a professional auto mechanic to check their vehicles.
Believe it or not, there are plenty of ways you can maintain your transmission without having to overhaul it completely. The methods below can help car owners prevent transmission-related incidents from happening.
Don’t Switch Gears Too Quickly
Your transmission has a lot of mechanisms that work whenever it is being used. These parts need each other to operate efficiently. The last thing you would want is for any of those to get knocked out of place. Such incident usually happens when you change directions too fast while driving. Shifting gears suddenly can cause some parts in your transmission to get displaced.
To prevent any unnecessary wear and tear to your vehicle, come to a complete stop before changing your gears. Rough transitions might cause your car’s engine to seize up and malfunction.
Check Your Transmission Fluid Regularly
Like the oil pan in your car, your transmission fluid also has a dipstick of its own. Make sure that the fluid levels are still good and have no discoloration. The latter is a sign that you need to get your fluid changed. Old or unchanged fluid can significantly damage your transmission system and cost you a lot of money.
Aside from changing your transmission fluid, you would also want to check if it is leaking from your car. This is easy to notice, and once you do, you should bring your vehicle to professional mechanics. They will be able to patch this up easily and quickly.
Use Your Hand Break When Parking Inclined
To avoid causing strain on your transmission system, make sure to engage your hand brake or emergency brake. Doing so helps turn the front wheels to the right or left while ensuring your vehicle doesn’t roll down. On the chance that it does, the slight turn of your front wheels will cause it to get caught in the curb instead of going downhill.
You should also be careful not to overuse your break in slow-paced traffic. This can add unwanted strain to your engine and transmission system and cause other transmission-related incidents.
Take Note of Your Vehicle’s Maintenance Schedule
You can actively take care of your vehicle by taking it to the shop for regular maintenance checks. Keep a tab of your schedule to ensure your vehicle gets the necessary check-ups it needs while also preventing any on-road accidents from happening.
Hire the Right Team To Repair and Rework Your Transmission
For all of your transmission-related concerns, contact Trans Works Transmissions in Portage, WI. Our highly trained mechanics will be more than happy to assist in all of your transmission concerns, from partial reworks to full repairs. Get in touch with us for more information.
- Published in Transmission
Used Transmissions: Are They Worth the Danger?
The transmission is one of the most vital components of any vehicle. An auto transmission can be tricky to maintain since it’s not treated as one part but as a network of interlocking components. It’s the same reason why transmissions can be expensive to purchase or repair.
For some, it seems that incorporating used transmissions is a viable alternative to getting a brand new one. However, there are a couple of risks that you will need to be aware of should you ever consider a secondhand transmission. Below are a few of the dangers that go with incorporating used transmission systems into your vehicle.
Potential Mechanical Problems
Used transmission systems do not function at the same level as new ones. There’s a lot of mechanical slack in them, and they generally don’t perform as smoothly. Some used transmissions tend to experience trouble on the road where the gears don’t shift, and the car suddenly stops moving. Random car breakdowns can be a hassle, especially if you’re far away from repair shops.
Lack of Information on the Transmission System
Some secondhand transmission systems tend to be pieces straight from a junkyard. Whoever sells a used transmission might not even know where the equipment has been and what kind of damages it has sustained. However, some sellers will be nice enough to test the transmission system if it still works. That may be a good sign to some but can still be risky.
It’s also impossible to tell how many miles are left in a used transmission. Used transmissions tend to be short-term solutions instead of getting a new unit that can benefit you better in the long run. A new one can be more expensive, but it’s safer. Getting your transmission remanufactured is another viable solution as well.
Residue From Old Transmission Fluid
Old transmission systems tend to have residual fluid on them. The residue can be dangerous and lead to different kinds of accidents. The fluid can end up combusting and injuring whoever is in the vehicle. This can also affect the other parts of the car and impair its overall performance, making repairs even more costly than they should be.
A Short Warranty
If you do take a chance on incorporating a used transmission system into your vehicle, there’s a chance that you might not get a warranty. If you do get one, it’ll only be for a short period. Some of these short warranties will only last for a few months – 12 months at best. However, this might not even be enough to cover for all of the technical difficulties that could come up.
Keep in mind that used transmission systems tend to be inactive for a long time. That usually causes some form of aging in the transmission, which will eventually affect the other components of the vehicle.
Hire a Reliable Team for Your Transmission Concerns
For excellent auto transmission services, hire our expert mechanics at Trans Works Transmissions in Portage, WI. We’ll cover everything you need for all your transmission-related concerns, from cars, light trucks, trucks, and even motorhomes. Contact us now for more information.
- Published in Transmission
Why You Need Professional Help For Your Transmission
Being able to do vehicle repairs is quite a handy skill when the situation calls for it. However, whether you should be the one attempting to fix your car should depend on a few factors. Some of these include the severity of the damage to your vehicle and the equipment you need, just to name a few. From these, you can determine if you need a professional mechanic to help or if you can manage the repairs on your own.
Among the parts of a vehicle, you’ll want to pay extra attention to the transmission because a car is unusable without it. Essentially, this complex piece of machinery gives your vehicle the ability to move. While some car owners can fix this component well on their own, there are a few points to consider as to why you need a professional mechanic to help you repair and maintain it.
Professional Mechanics Deal With the Complexity of the Repairs
While it sounds like a single component, the transmission is actually a network of interlocking parts. Each can experience troubles of its own and be difficult to manage without a mechanic. It takes more than just a good eye for car troubles to fix the transmission. You’ll need equipment that can determine the exact issue and solve it quickly.
Professionals mechanics usually have computer programs and other tools that allow them to diagnose the transmission trouble immediately. This step alone can save you hours of trying to investigate what the trouble might be on your own.
They Save Time for the Vehicle Owner
Mechanics aren’t only trained to solve the technical difficulties they’re presented with – they also do it quickly. One problem with handling transmission repairs on your own is that it can take a copious amount of time to get them done. Having a professional work on your vehicle’s transmission will definitely speed up the repairs.
Hiring a mechanic also means that you don’t have to get your hands dirty. It takes the more complex part of the problem away from you, allowing you to sit back and have your hired mechanic handle everything.
They Provide Warranties for the Vehicle Owner
Transmission repairs have two warranties: one for the car and another for the repairs done by the mechanic. Your car will be covered by the first warranty so long as a mechanic is doing the repairs.
The second warranty is given by your chosen mechanic to ensure adequate repairs and to cover for any damage sustained during the procedure. This helps customers save money and keeps them from spending too much on transmission repairs.
They Take Away the Stress of Doing the Repairs Alone
The stress from having transmission trouble and it’s downstream impact to your ability to get where you need to go can be overwhelming. However, this stress can be reduced by having a mechanic work for you from the very beginning. This guarantees that the repairs will be done quickly and thoroughly and that every penny spent will be well-spent.
Hire the Right Team to Repair and Maintain Your Transmission
To ensure quality and thorough service for your vehicle’s transmission, hire experienced mechanics from Trans Works Transmissions in Portage, WI. We have everything you need for all your transmission-related concerns. We cover cars, light trucks, trucks, and even motorhomes. You can trust our team to get the job done right.
- Published in Transmission
5 Common Mistakes That Ruin Transmissions
To make sure your vehicle always performs in top condition, it’s imperative to check on every single component regularly. One important part of your vehicle that needs extra attention is the transmission. However, many car owners make common mistakes that affect its service life, resulting in premature failure.
Here are some things you should avoid to keep your transmission in great shape:
Neglecting Your Transmission Fluid
An automatic transmission requires fluid to lubricate its many parts, cool itself from heat, and provide hydraulic fluid pressure. If the fluid is insufficient, your transmission will have to work harder to compensate, leading to overheating. To prevent this, regularly check your fluid levels. If they’re low, there’s a possibility that you have a leak that needs to be fixed immediately.
In addition to fluid levels, also pay attention to its color. Normal fluid should be clear and pink in color. If it’s deep red or brown, this means it’s old and should be changed.
Using the Wrong Type of Fluid
There is a common misconception that all transmission fluids are the same. However, some transmissions need specific types to perform in top condition. Each fluid has a different level of viscosity and additives that serve the component. Get help from experts to make sure you’re using the right fluid for your transmission.
Ignoring Issues Until It’s Too Late
If your transmission has been showing problems, such as strange noises when you’re changing gears or dark fluids staining your driveway, you shouldn’t ignore them. Seek the help of professional technicians immediately to get it checked and fixed. Driving your vehicle despite these red flags can put you at risk.
Driving Too Hard Immediately
When the weather is too cold, the viscosity of your transmission fluid becomes thicker, which will make lubricating parts more difficult. It can lead to slipping, shifting problems, and more. To give your transmission a chance to warm up, turn on your engine for at least than 30 seconds before driving.
Not Going for a Transmission Service
One of the best ways to keep your transmission in top condition is to have it serviced by professionals periodically. If you miss routine check-ups for your car, dirt and contaminants will build up and cause your transmission to work slower. This results in problems over time.
Experts recommend getting your transmission serviced every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Depending on driving conditions and how often you use your car, this is equivalent to 2 to 5 years. Having professionals check your vehicle regularly also prevents costly repairs in the future.
Turn to Us for All Your Transmission Needs
Is your vehicle’s transmission not working right? Then bring your car to us at Trans Works Transmissions in Portage, WI. You can rely on us to provide top-selling certified transmission units and have them installed by experienced specialists. We use state-of-the-art tools for our services, from transmission repairs to full rebuilds. Call us today.
- Published in Transmission
