As with many components of your automobile, the earlier you spot an issue with your transmission and bring it in for a repair, the greater the chance that the repair will be relatively quick and simple. Of course, it is not always easy to identify transmission problems nor can all problems be, “nipped in the bud”, so to speak. Nevertheless, it is always best to bring your vehicle in for an inspection and possible repair at the first sign of trouble.
If you don’t, (and, sadly, sometimes even if you do) you could be facing a transmission overhaul. A transmission overhaul is a very detailed and involved type of repair. Just what goes into it can be complicated, so this article will endeavour to explain the details of a transmission overhaul.
The truth is that a great deal of transmission repairs can be done relatively painlessly. It’s impressive how many problems can be resolved by topping up or changing out the transmission fluid as well as maybe repairing a leak. But this is not a catchall; there are a number of transmission problems that this won’t repair.
Sometimes, a part needs to be replaced. Skilled technicians can often identify which part it is by running various tests and diagnostics, both physical and digital in the case of computer controlled transmissions. There are a number of parts that are accessible without requiring the removal of the complete transmission from the body of the vehicle.
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. And of course, there are many parts that are not accessible. In these cases, you’re looking at a complete overhaul.
A transmission overhaul (also known as rebuilding a transmission) requires the removal and disassembly of the transmission in its entirety. Every part of the transmission is inspected for wear and damage, and then it is 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 re-manufactured 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.
As you can tell, a transmission overhaul is serious business. It is not a first resort nor is it a quick and simple job. Responsible technicians will only recommend a transmission overhaul if the problem your transmission is experiencing is a severe or unknown one. However, the plus side of a transmission overhaul is that it is so complete that it often prevents the development of any future serious transmission problems for a long time to come.
If you have any questions about transmission overhauls or would like to bring your vehicle in for a transmission repair, please contact us today and we’d be happy to help you out
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