When you need a transmission repair, your vehicle will likely tell you with strange sounds and vibrations like shudders and clunks, and it may even smell odd.  Any time your vehicle does something unusual or out of character, it’s a good idea to bring it to a mechanic any way, but transmission issues tend to be very obvious that something is wrong.  Some transmission issues are even preventable by following the factory recommended maintenance schedule. We include an automatic transmission fluid check in our Multi-Point Preventative Maintenance Inspection which we perform with every repair.  It is also in our VIP Oil Change!

Good news!  Transmissions are repairable most of the time.  Transmissions need care, just like every component of your engine and drive train, so give us a call if you have questions or take a look in your owner’s manual for transmission fluid changing and transmission filter replacement schedules based on the factory’s recommended maintenance.  A well-maintained transmission should give you a smooth ride as it fluctuates between gears.  If it doesn’t, it may be time for a transmission repair.

Older cars and cars purchased for the pleasure of driving often have a standard transmission, also known as a manual transmission, which involves a clutch.  Clutches wear out over time and may need to be replaced more often than the transmission will need to be repaired.  Most new vehicles have an automatic transmission, but there are some differences between them.  If you have a front-wheel-drive vehicle, you likely have a transaxle instead of a transmission, which means that the transmission, such as it is, is bundled with the engine.  Some 4-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles have this feature, too.  Hybrids, electric vehicles, and a few other newer cars may have a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) or a DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission).  So, there are a lot of variables in transmissions, what they need, and when they need it, but the bottom line for you as the driver remains the same: your transmission should give you a smooth, safe ride.

If it seems off in any way, make an appointment with us online or over the phone at (805) 226-8124 and we will take a look.

There comes a time in every vehicle’s life when a component simply cannot be repaired.  In most cases, the transmission IS repairable, but sometimes they need to be replaced.  Most often, a transmission needs to be replaced from a lack of maintenance, which is why we strongly suggest keeping your transmission fluid and filter in mind when you bring your car in for maintenance and following the guidelines in your owner’s manual.  Transmission replacement is unique to the type and location of each vehicle, so if it is time to replace your transmission, we’ll walk you through the process and discuss your options with you.

And don’t forget – we check your transmission fluid for FREE with our Multi-Point Preventative Maintenance Inspection conducted with every automotive repair and with our VIP Oil Change.  Be sure to ask about it the next time you bring your vehicle in!