September 15, 2023

Transmission Repair Costs and Best Ways to Save

The transmission is the part of a car the takes the energy produced from the engine and gives it to what is driver controlled like drive shaft and wheels. An inoperable or highly damaged transmission disallows a vehicle to run. Maintenance is key to minimizing the need for transmission repair and avoiding replacement. There are many factors that go into how frequently a transmission should be damaged and how it should be cared for. It is important to see a certified technician upon sensing an issue, but it is also important as a driver to understand what influences the frequency of maintenance.

The four types of automotive transmissions include:

  • Automatic Transmission otherwise referred to as AT
  • Manual Transmission otherwise referred to as MT
  • Automated Manual Transmission otherwise referred to as AM
  • Continuously Variable Transmission otherwise referred to as CVT

Understand how an AT or Automatic Transmission functions

An AT or Automatic Transmission shifts gears automatically which, shifting gears is necessary, to minimize engine stress. Shifting gears allows your vehicle to run at appropriate speeds in accordance with the type of terrain needed to be overcome such as driving up hill or adjusting from driving in a residential area to a highway. Shifting gears puts your engine in the best position to run appropriately.

When and How the Fluid in Your Transmission Should be Changed

The reddish or pink dyed fluid is usually what transmission fluid looks like. You should always reference your car manual when determining how to change your fluid. Some vehicles require to be running whereas others are instructed to be off. It is safest to have a certified mechanic examine your transmission to avoid propelling any damage through otherwise avoidable user errors. It is also essential to understand that your individual driver choices may accelerate the need for professional maintenance. If you change acceleration often or are pulling heavy loads, your car is forced to work harder and use more power so it will need to be maintained more frequently. 

When Transmission Repair is Preferred to Replacement

Maintaining small transmission issues is the best way to preserve your dollar and the life of your transmission. If put off, they may escalate and cause new issues. A transmission with several issues can cause further damage to other components of your car and make in undriveable. It may also be risky to invest in repairing a large amount of damages because if it does not work out not only will you have lost money but will have to opt for replacement which will be a further investment. Because replacement is costly and the transmission is one of the most essential components in a vehicle, maintenance by a professional auto technician is the key in preserving your vehicle.