Is it possible your car needs a tune up on its transmission? Well, the following
advice comes from the Federal Trade Commission, the Automotive Parts Trade
Commission and the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association.
Periodic fluid changes and other maintenance
recommended by your car manufacturer are all that is needed if you don't
notice any problems. Leave well enough alone.
Unfortunately, you may, at some point, notice signs of transmission problems:
If your transmission fails to shift or shows signs of delays shifting into
the next gear, or if it thumps or lags as opposed to shifting smoothly -
or if the engine speeds up when you step on the gas but the car
doesn't. Or if your car is whining or making unusual noises,
like grinding or banging.
If, when the engine is cold the car fails to
move, but runs smoothly after it warms up, look for pink, red or brown puddles
under the car. You may also have a transmission problem if your engine overheats
or if your transmission fluid levels drop and you need to add more fluid.
FIND A REPUTABLE TRANSMISSION DEALER OR SHOPThe best recommendations will come from family,
friends, or your regular mechanic, neighbors, or co-workers. Also check
with your local Better Business Bureau or a state or local consumer protection
office to see if complaints have been filed against a transmission shop
you might be considering. If you are dealing with an experienced transmission
repair specialist, they will ask you about
how your car has been performing. They should also check the transmission
fluid, look at the condition of the motor mounts, and (if your car is drivable)
take it for a road test before they decide to disassemble the transmission.
Ask to be shown in writing what the maximum
price you could be charged for repairs would be before you leave your car.
If the specialist is not prepared to provide a maximum written estimate
before they tear down the transmission for an inspection, they should at
least give you a quote for the removal, disassembly, inspection and reinstallation
of your transmission. If you have to get the transmission rebuilt or repaired,
get written warranty protection.
BEWAREUnfortunately, there are rip off artists everywhere.
Some tactics you should be aware of and not fall for:
There is always a certain amount of debris found in the pan of many transmissions.
This does not mean you have a faulty transmission.
Transmission fluid that has been used for many miles may look or smell "burnt".
This might be an indication of a problem, but on the other hand, a fluid
and filter change may be all that is needed. Have this tried first and see
if the problem persists.
If the price is ridiculously low, be suspicious. If it is routine maintenance
service for a transmission, it should take about an hour. An unscrupulous
person might advertise a very low price to get people to come to their shop,
and then try to sell you unneeded repairs at expensive prices.
Happy Driving!
