Caring for your vehicle is just one of the things we need to do as an adult. Manufacturers design most modern automobiles to be more efficient. They require less maintenance than the cars our parents and grandparents owned. With that being said, we cannot overlook the importance of routine maintenance. Let’s explore the details of transmission service, including a fluid flush, filter change, and pan gasket replacement.
What Is a Transmission Service?
A routine Transmission Service includes an inspection and replacement of dirty or worn transmission components to ensure the efficiency and performance of your vehicle’s gearbox. It should be part of your regular auto maintenance routine. These days, many automobiles have a closed transmission system. There is no way of checking the level or quality of your vehicle’s transmission fluid in a closed transmission. Unless you have a garage fitted out with automotive tools and equipment, most modern cars should have a transmission service performed at a trusted auto repair shop. Let’s look at the typical services performed during a transmission service.
Transmission Pan-Drop Fluid Change
There are a couple of ways to change your vehicle’s transmission fluid. A pan-drop fluid change removes the pan from the transmission housing and drains the fluid out via gravity. A technician drains about a third to half of the total transmission fluid with this method. They remove the debris or contaminants in the pan, but the old fluid will remain in the transmission. Next, they clean and reinstall or replace the pan gasket if damaged, and finally add the new transmission fluid. The technician may have to perform this process several times to remove all the old fluid and contaminants adequately.
Transmission Fluid Flush
The more complete method is a transmission fluid flush. This procedure uses a machine (or your vehicle’s pump) to draw out the contaminated fluid while pumping new transmission fluid in. A fluid flush replaces all the transmission fluid in one service. Always check your owner’s manual to verify if your vehicle needs a fluid change or a fluid flush.
Replace Transmission Filter
The transmission filter in your vehicle is an essential component because it keeps contaminants out of your transmission fluid. Many auto manufacturers suggest changing the transmission filter every 2 years / 30,000 miles (whichever comes first). The technician will replace the transmission filter whenever they change the transmission fluid or replaces the pan gasket.
Inspect Pan Gasket
The pan gasket is located between the transmission housing and the transmission pan. It is a thin rubber seal that can get worn and cracked over time, causing transmission fluid leaks. The pan gasket is relatively easy to inspect and a technician should replace it if damaged.
Clean Transmission Components
A technician should clean all the undercarriage transmission components of grease, grime, and road debris. This not only helps the components perform better, but it can also aid your service technician in locating leaks or other issues down the road.
When Is a Transmission Service Needed?
As a vehicle owner, it is your responsibility to perform the necessary inspections and repairs your car requires to operate safely when on the road. Your owner’s manual will outline the time and mileage markers to service your transmission. These markers can vary a lot depending on the make and model of your car. Be prepared to schedule a transmission service every 30,000 to 150,000. Your auto manufacturer also indicates whether your vehicle needs a fluid change or a fluid flush.
Following your vehicle’s manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance services are a great way to retain your car’s performance levels and fuel efficiency. Of course, unanticipated issues can occur which may require immediate service. Schedule a transmission service if you experience any of the following problems with your vehicle:
- Grinding or Slipping Gears
- Difficulty Shifting
- Power Surge After Changing Gears
- Burning Smell or Smoke from The Engine
- Leaking Transmission Fluid (usually pink or red; can be dark brown or black if old or burned)
- Dark, Cloudy, or Burnt Smelling Transmission Fluid
Benefits Of a Transmission Service
Whether you are following your manufacturer’s recommendations or dealing with an unexpected transmission issue, there are several benefits you can expect from a transmission service.
- Saves Money: Routine transmission service throughout vehicle ownership is less expensive than a transmission replacement.
- Prevents Clogs & Heat Build-up: Old transmission fluid can become burned or contaminated with particulates. This decreases its ability to properly lubricate and transfer heat throughout the transmission system.
- Improved Engine Efficiency: Most vehicles experience better gas mileage, improved shifting, and a smoother ride with regular transmission fluid services.
- Higher Resale Value: Vehicles with a routine maintenance history are more valuable than vehicles without them.
Transmission Service in Redmond, WA
ZahnTech Automotive Service is located in Redmond, WA. We understand that trust is earned, and we would like to earn yours. Our highly trained and certified technicians perform all our work using quality parts and equipment. We would love the opportunity to provide a transmission service to your vehicle.
Schedule Your Transmission Service
Call us at (425) 861-8060 or visit us online to schedule your Transmission Service today!