If your transmission has a minor defect, you may simply need to have it repaired by an auto service technician. But depending on the severity of the damage done to your transmission, it might need to be rebuilt. If too many components are damaged, your transmission will need to be replaced.
The Role of the Transmission
The purpose of the transmission is to transmit power from the engine to the wheels of a vehicle. Without your transmission, your vehicle would not be able to move. Also, without your transmission, you would not be able to shift out of park and go into drive or reverse. If your transmission becomes damaged, an auto service technician will inform you of the next steps you should take to fix your vehicle.
When to Rebuild Your Transmission
For moderate damage, rebuilding your transmission is the best option. A transmission is expensive, and it might not be worthwhile to replace a transmission on an old car. A transmission repair shop will disassemble your transmission and look for any parts that are damaged.
The technician will then replace each of these parts and test the transmission to make sure that it works. All of the components of your transmission will also be cleaned and this, by itself, might be enough for your transmission to start working again.
Rebuilding a Transmission Takes Time
Rebuilding a transmission can take many hours. The technician will pay close attention to every detail so that your newly rebuilt transmission will not have any defects.
When to Replace a Transmission
While a transmission sometimes needs to be replaced, this is usually avoided because it's difficult to find a new transmission. A brand-new transmission is also expensive. It's more common for a transmission shop to refurbish a transmission retrieved from a junkyard. It's possible to fully refurbish a transmission so that it functions just as well as a new transmission.
Your transmission might need to be replaced if you have trouble shifting gears. The technician may take your transmission apart and discover that too many components are damaged beyond repair.
Transmissions are Usually Ruined By Low Transmission Fluid
What usually causes a transmission to become severely damaged is when the transmission fluid is low. This causes friction that can cause your transmission to wear out. Not only will you need your transmission fluid to be replaced, but the technician must also locate and fix the leak so that the newly replaced transmission fluid doesn't leak out. Once the technician has installed your new transmission, you won't have to worry about your car not being able to shift gears.
For more information, reach out to a local service, such as Schuck's Transmissions.
Have you ever noticed how similar with words "car" and "care" are before? This could just be a coincidence, but it is also helpful. The similarity of the two words serves to remind you that your car requires care. You should take it to the auto service shop regularly for oil changes, to have the tires rotated, and to have the brakes serviced. Neglect this care, and your car may not keep working very long, and it may not even be safe to drive. We invite you to read more about auto service and auto care on this blog, where we delve into such topics in more detail.