Reasons Why You Should Replace Your Transmission

Mercedes Automatic Transmission - image for article

Cars, whether automatic or manual, have transmissions. The transmission provides controlled application of power to the vehicle. Maintaining your transmission is necessary to avoid damages and issues in your car. However, if the time comes it can not be avoided. Here are some reasons why you should replace your transmission.

When to Consider a Transmission Repair

Repairs are done if the parts of your transmission are still good and maybe they just need to be conditioned or cleaned. Transmission parts can be repaired if they are damaged and can still function after repair otherwise replacement is needed already. Transmission may function as one machine however each part has its own role in making the transmission work. Transmission specialists can be able to tell the issues on the part of the transmission and can repair them without having to replace them.

Signs that Your Need Transmission Repair

  • The fluids start to emit a “burned” smell
  • When there are humming, chunking, and grinding sounds when the car is running especially when it is under neutral.
  • Transitions are not smooth, when shifting gear you can hear grinding or thumping feeling.
  • There is a lag between gear changes.

When to Consider a Transmission Rebuild

Transmission rebuilding is a process where each part of the transmission is inspected and checked if they are still repairable. If yes then they are repaired separately. All parts that need replacement will then be replaced. Once repair and replacements of parts are done and there are no issues anymore. The transmission is rebuilt and assembled then installed back in your car.

Signs that Your Need Transmission Rebuild

  • Leaking Transmission

If you see bright red or dark red stains in your driveway then better check your transmission. Leaking transmission is a sign that some parts need to be checked if they need to be repaired then rebuilt and all parts are in place.

  • Trouble Shifting Gears

Having a hard time shifting gears can be a good indicator that you need transmission rebuilding. Troubles on shifting gears can cause you not only a slight accident but can make your car lose control. Issues on the gear should not be taken lightly but should be addressed immediately.

When to Consider a Transmission Replacement

Replacement will always be the last one on the list, if repairs won’t work anymore then the need for replacement is done. However, the availability of car transmission can depend since each model and make of car has its own transmission. You can ask your manufacturer and they can help you with getting one.

Signs that Your Need Transmission Replacement

  • Too Many Repairs

Transmissions have lifespans too. If you have had them for a very long time already and you can not count how many times they have undergone repair then maybe it’s time to replace them.

  • Lack of Maintenance

Maintaining your transmission is important since not giving the right care can shorten their lifespan and can be irreparable. In this case, replacement is your only option. Checking on your transmission regularly can let you know if there are parts that need to be repaired or replaced. This is better than changing the whole transmission.

  • Overheating

Constant overheating is a sign that you should replace it with a new one. Overheating can cause burning of transmission fluid, if this thing happens often then your transmission is good to go already.

  • Cost

If the cost of the repair is almost the same as replacement then replacing it can be a better choice. You can get a new Transmission and at the same time spend the same amount and less time to wait since you don’t have to wait for it to be fixed.

These are all the reasons why you should replace your transmission. Now that you have an idea of the signs you have to consider them. Then start observing your vehicle and visit your nearest car repair shop to have things fixed in your transmission. Make sure to have everything checked so they can determine if repair, rebuild or replacement is needed. One thing to prepare is your budget. Make sure you have your money ready so you can have it fixed immediately since it can put your life in danger if parts or your overall transmission are not working well.


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