Transmission Repair FAQs

Transmission Repair FAQs

A transmission repair is a procedure that can take a lot of time and effort to complete. Unfortunately, you will not be able to drive around on a vehicle that has a major transmission problem, and you want to choose a mechanic who can get the work done properly and get you back on the road as soon as possible. If you believe you are needing transmission work, searching for transmission repair near you is important. Transmission work is specialized, so you should take the time to pick someone with the right expertise to get the work done for you. 

Having some questions about transmission repair is expected when the transmission goes out on your vehicle, and you want to get them answered before you go and work with a mechanic to get the problem fixed.

Some of the facts that you should know when you face transmission repair include:

What Does My Transmission Do?

The purpose of the transmission is to transfer the power from the engine over to the wheels so the car can move. The transmission will work by shifting the gears, which will help to determine where to put the power and help the car work. 

There are two types of transmissions that you can find in a vehicle, a manual or an automatic. The transmission will also work to help the running engine to be connected or disconnected from the wheel drive without the shocks, allows you to turn the vehicle in a different reduction, and can enable the reduction of engine speeds as well. 

Can I Buy a New Transmission?

It is not usually possible to purchase a new replacement transmission for your vehicle because only current models are generally available. If you have one of the newest models, there may still be a chance; otherwise, you’re going to need to seek repair options. Not to worry – your mechanic will help you find the right transmission for your needs if something goes wrong with it. 

How Can I Tell My Transmission Is Going Bad?

Before you engage a mechanic to get the transmission fixed, you should know some of the signs that there is something wrong with the transmission in the first place. Here are some signs to look for if you suspect something is not right:

  • Warning lights: When your transmission runs into problems, the check engine light will turn on. This is especially true with an automatic transmission problem.
  • Check the transmission fluid: When your car is in the park, you should check the fluid levels. Open the hood and then check to see whether the fluid is at the right level and is reddish and almost translucent. If the levels are low or the color is off, you may need to get that fixed before other significant problems appear.
  • Use the brake pedal: You can hold down on the brake pedal with one foot and step on the gas pedal with the other to rev the engine. Make sure your parking brake is on too, and never rev the car for more than a few seconds. If you do this and the engine does not rev up or stay revved for long, it is a sign of a transmission problem.
  • Pay attention when driving: You should notice that your vehicle shifts from one gear to another smoothly; if you are driving and notice some vibrations, jolts, or high RPMs when you shift, these are all signs of a transmission problem. Of course, if the car can’t shift at all, you should consult with a mechanic to find the proper solution. 

Can I Buy a Remanufactured Transmission?

Purchasing a remanufactured transmission is an excellent way to get the transmission fixed and save money at the same time, but there are often consequences if you choose to pursue this avenue. This equipment is not rebuilt through the manufacturer but is instead outsourced to the lowest bidder to get the work done. This process doesn’t ensure quality, and you will not be happy to end up back in the mechanic’s shop soon, having to commission more work. 

How Much Does Transmission Repair Cost?

The cost to fix your transmission will range from $1500 to $5000. This is an extensive range because it depends on the type of transmission and what exactly needs to be fixed on it. Since so many components come together in the transmission, be ready to spend some money when you drop the vehicle off at the mechanic. However, you can ask for several bids in advance to see to negotiate a better deal before you commit to anything.

It does, however, make sense why the service is so costly, especially when you consider all of the components in the transmission – each one needs to be removed, cleaned, and inspected before you get your vehicle back. Everything that is broken or worn down will be fixed so that the vehicle works well. Finally, each part is put together and tested again to ensure it will operate as needed. 

Once the mechanic has re-assembled the transmission, they need to install it into the vehicle once more, and since all of the automatic transmissions used today are computer controlled, they must test its performance with a computer to ensure that it will work on the road for you. Remember, it’s always a good idea to shop around beforehand to evaluate how much a mechanic’s services will cost and how skilled the worker will be; this can save you a lot of money upfront and in the future.

The Bottom Line

Your transmission is an integral part of your vehicle, and you need to ensure that it is in good working order so that your vehicle can shift and keep you moving on the road. When there are some issues with your transmission, you need to get the vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible to get the work done. Research the process and procedures in advance to ensure you understand the importance of your transmission, some of the signs there are problems with the transmission, and what to expect when you do take it in.