Pinpointing the exact cause of any transmission problem takes skill, knowledge, and investigation
The evolution of transmissions has made these machines and systems increasingly complex. When transmission repairs are required, determining the cause and cure for what ails can be tricky. Why? Because transmissions have become remarkably complex and computerized and that presents both advantages and disadvantages. On one hand, transmission performance has become noticeably better in all vehicle makes and models. On the other, the increased complexity and digitization of transmission systems has made repair work a highly technical and complicated affair.
As you can imagine, there are different types of transmission repair jobs and options you can choose from depending on the nature of your vehicle’s breakdown. Understanding what those options are can help you make informed decisions when faced with a choice of transmission repairs to weigh.
A Repair for Every Type of Transmission Malfunction
Some transmission repair work is straightforward and mechanical in nature. Other times, it’s a combination of mechanical and electronic engineering that’s required to get your car back on the road. The most common types of repair work include:
- Adjustments and in-car repairs. Most minor repairs are simple matters that are done without removing the transmission from the vehicle. If yours is a computer-controlled transmission that is not shifting properly, it is often the result of a computer sending incorrect signals due to a faulty sensor, or the transmission is not reacting to the command because of a bad connection or defective solenoid pack. If a non-computer controlled transmission is shifting too early or too late, it may require an adjustment to the throttle cable. If the vehicle has a vacuum modulator instead of a throttle cable, there is an adjustment that can be made using an adjustment screw in some designs. In vehicles with modulators, however, it is important to ensure there are no vacuum leaks and that the engine is running at peak efficiency.
- Reseal jobs. A transmission is re-sealed to repair external transmission fluid leaks. If you see spots of red oil on the ground under the car, your transmission may need a re-seal job. To check a transmission for leaks, a technician will put the vehicle on a lift and examine the unit for signs of oil leaks. If a leak is spotted at any of the external seals or gaskets and the transmission otherwise performs well, the technician will most likely recommend that the transmission be re-sealed. Most of the external seals can be replaced while the transmission is still in the car but, if the front seal must be replaced, the transmission must first be removed from the vehicle to gain access to it.
- Replacing accessible parts. There are a number of parts that are accessible without requiring the removal of the complete transmission. The parts that are accessible, however, vary from transmission to transmission and most transmission repair facilities would hesitate to provide meaningful warranties on external repairs for the simple reason that they cannot see if there are any additional internal problems in the components that are only accessible by transmission removal.
- Complete overhauls. Also known as “rebuilding a transmission”, a complete overhaul involves the removal and disassembly of the transmission in its entirety. Every part is inspected for wear and damage, then cleaned in a special cleaning solution, or replaced with another part depending on its condition. Parts that have friction surfaces, such as bands and clutches are replaced as are all seals and gaskets. The torque converter is also replaced, usually with a remanufactured one. Technical service bulletins are checked to see if the auto manufacturer recommends any modifications to correct design defects that were discovered after the transmission was built. Automobile manufacturers often make upgrade kits available to transmission shops to resolve these design defects.
Replacing or Overhauling a Transmission
When a transmission requires an overhaul, there are two options that you may have. The first is to remove your existing transmission and overhaul it, then put the rebuilt unit back in your car. The second option is to replace your existing unit with another unit that has already been rebuilt or remanufactured.
A word to the wise: replacing your transmission with a used one may not be your best option. Used transmissions often have questionable histories that could create a whole new set of challenges. New transmissions, meanwhile, are mostly aftermarket transmissions billed as new but are in fact rebuilt transmissions with new parts.
The cost of the repair is always top-of-mind and understandably so. Transmission repairs are usually unexpected (and unwelcome). The cost varies depending on the outcome of our diagnostic testing, and we will help you to understand the various factors that come into play. We also offer our customers flexible payment options.
Whichever route you choose, you can trust our transmission experts to get you and your car back on the road.
Visit Mister Transmission for an assessment on what transmission repairs you may need. Contact the Mister Transmission service centre nearest to you.
What Customers Say About Mister Transmission
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Was very pleased by the service offerred by Service Manager Ken Barone. Ken was very patient with me as I asked a number of questions throughout the process of dropping off, diagnosis and with the completion of the repair. Demonstrated thorough knowledge throughout the process.
1 week Ago -
Vehicle was taken care of very well, finished in a timely manner, and they updated me on how my vehicle was doing. Friendly and understanding
7 months Ago -
Polite staf
11 months Ago -
Very satisfy with the service provided by Ray and Gus, they make me feel confident about the work they are doing
11 months Ago -
Honest and trustworthy service done quickly
11 months Ago -
I find the head mechanic very friendly and he makes me feel comfortable leaving the car for repairs. I am always called and notified if there are other issues to discuss with the car. After the work is completed I sit down with the mechanic and he goes over the bill explaining all the items that were fixed. I would feel at ease if I had to leave the car for a transmission repair or other major concerns with my car.. I highly recommend this shop.
12 months Ago -
Gus is absolutely AMAZING! I contacted him over the phone first and I asked him how much it was for a new transmission and he said I possibly didn’t need a new transmission. He said he’s extremely knowledgeable and has experience working with CVT Transmissions. This was a first because the other service shops, including the dealership said it’s not worth fixing the transmission and it’s best to get a new transmission. Well, Gus took the time to explain things to me thoroughly and advised me of the cost to repair things and it really put me at ease. I just want to say a HUGE thank you to Gus and his team because I’m one very happy and satisfied customer. I’ll definitely use your services anytime and will recommend you to anyone would needs your services. Judeth
12 months Ago -
Have previously been a customer of Mister Transmisdion,.although not this location, and have always found them polite and helpful.
1 year Ago -
Finally found some service people I can Trust.
1 year Ago -
Excellent service; takes the time to explain the charges on invoices which in turn inspires confidence and provides transparency.
1 year Ago