Why Is It Important to Check Your Transmission Fluid?

It is very important to check your transmission fluid frequently. Allowing your fluid to go bad and waiting too long to get it changed can cause a lot of problems for car. Transmissions can be very expensive to fix and is even more expensive to replace. Check your transmission every 50,000 miles or so, just to be safe. One of the best times to get your transmission fluid checked by a professional is during a routine engine oil change. Our specialists are always happy to check it for you and let you know the condition of your transmission fluid.

If you want to check your transmission fluid yourself, here are some simple steps to help:

  1. Put your vehicle in park, set your parking brake and make sure you are on level ground.
  2. Locate your transmission filler tube under the car (if your car doesn’t have one, see a specialist).
  3. Remove the dip stick and clean it with a dry cloth.
  4. Reinsert the dip stick all the way and then take it back out to see the level of the fluid.
  5. If the color of the fluid is not clear and has a burnt odor, it is time to get it changed!

 

Without changing your transmission fluid on time, your transmission will be lubricated with metal shavings and other contaminants, shortening your transmission’s life. Transmissions can fail even after you already changed the fluid because the damage has already been done by waiting too long get new fluid. Without being proactive, a hefty penny is needed to get a replacement.

 

A transmission changes the gears of your engine. It transfers the engine’s power to the wheels allowing your car to move. Changing the transmission fluid on a regular basis will make sure the fluid stays clean and will keep your car running smooth! Changing the fluid in your transmission can be a complicated mess so if you are even a little uncomfortable doing it yourself, let the professionals do it for you!

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Should I Buy a Remanufactured Transmission or Pay for an Overhaul?

Gearbox in a heavy duty transmission

If you follow the recommended maintenance, the average automatic transmission might last up to 200,000 miles. Skip even one fluid service, and you could shorten the life of your gearbox. When the gears no longer grab, you need a replacement.

For the best value, you have your choice between a remanufactured or a rebuilt unit, but which one is better?

Here’s what you need to know:

Remanufactured Transmission Pros and Cons

A remanufactured gearbox is an older unit that has undergone a complete overhaul. Specialty repair shops equipped with machine and test equipment supply these units.

The technicians follow an established procedure:

  • Complete disassembly and inspection of the old unit
  • Worn metal components are machined or replaced as needed
  • During reassembly, techs install new gaskets, clutches, bands, snap rings, and bearings
  • The unit receives a technical update to correct for any known engineering defects
  • A transmission dynamometer tests the function of the restored unit before delivery

These replacements come with some of the best warranties that also cover additional labor expenses should something go wrong. These are great options if you don’t mind spending a little more for your repair.

There are potential delays. It’s unlikely the local repair shop has the exact model you need sitting on the shelf. Order and delivery times keep your car out of service longer adding to your headaches. If you have an exotic vehicle, you may even have to wait for a refurbishment shop to service your unusual order.

All About Rebuilt Transmissions

In the right circumstances, a rebuilt transmission is just as good as a refurbished unit. These can last as long, and a good repair shop stands behind the work. The process is similar except that your gearbox does not need to arrive from a third-party supplier.

Your rebuilder performs the work in-house:

  • Complete disassembly and inspection of the existing equipment
  • All original hard metal parts remain with minor adjustments to severely worn assemblies
  • The case and gears receive a thorough cleaning
  • The technician reassembles the unit replacing worn clutches, gaskets, and fasteners
  • After installing the reassembled unit, the vehicle gets a road test.

A qualified shop still warranties the work, but you must return to the rebuilder for any follow-up repairs. Rebuilders also typically do not upgrade the functionality. Instead, they focus on restoring the original equipment to working condition. For an older vehicle or a vehicle that you do not want to invest as much into, the rebuilt is often the preferable option.

Let’s Talk Transmissions

At Trans Works, we love transmissions. We specialize in shipping transmissions wherever your next project needs it. Contact us today and ask about our wholesale transmission pricing.

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