The automatic transmission in your vehicle is durable and dependable if you keep up with maintenance and service needs. Modern transmissions require less service than older models, so if your vehicle's transmission starts acting funny, you may need to consider taking it to an auto transmission repair service for diagnosis.
Auto Transmission Maintenance
Automatic transmissions use pressure to make the gear set changes as you drive. If the fluid in the transmission case is low or extremely thin, the system may have difficulty shifting or staying in the correct gear.
If the transmission is acting up, having an auto transmission repair shop check it is a good place to start. Typically the service intervals for transmission service are longer than engine oil or other items in your car, but the transmission does require some basic care between these service points.
Checking the oil or fluid level in the transmission is essential and is easily done at home. Check your owner's manual for the location of the dipstick, and the procedure the manufacturer suggests for checking the levels. The manual should also have a recommendation for the fluid type and how much to add.
Often adding transmission oil or fluid will resolve the shifting issue, but if it does not, the repair shop may need to check your filter and the overall system condition. Not all transmission fluid is the same, so be sure to double-check what you need before adding any. The wrong fluid can damage the transmission clutches and planetary gears inside the housing.
Transmission Repair
If you check the transmission fluid and it is where it belongs, but the transmission is still not working the way it should, take the car to an auto transmission repair shop so they can further diagnose the issue. If the transmission is nearing a service interval, it may need the fluid changed and the filter replaced inside the case.
You may also want to ask about flushing the system to get any dirt, metal, or other contaminates out of the lines, transmission cooler, and the transmission itself. The tech at the repair shop will check the linkage outside the transmission to ensure it is working and adjusted, the filter inside the oil pan, and any electrical connections or sensors that could be causing the malfunction.
If you use the vehicle to tow trailers, boats, RVs, and other heavy loads, you will need to have transmission service more often, to combat the heat and wear issues from the added strain on the transmission. The auto transmission repair shop can help you determine when to bring the vehicle in for maintenance and keep a close eye on your vehicle's transmission to ensure it continues working when needed.
Reach out to a company like Summit Transmission Inc to learn more about auto transmission repairs.
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