Schedule a Test Drive
Just like oil changes and tire service, transmission service is an important part of a vehicle’s routine maintenance. Although you may not hear about transmission service as much as other maintenance services, it’s still important that drivers do not neglect transmission maintenance. If you would like to learn more about transmission service near Gretna, Hammond, or Kenner, call or come by Premier Clearance Center Metairie.
Why Does My Vehicle Need Transmission Service?
Similar to an engine’s oil, your vehicle’s transmission has a special fluid that needs to be changed over time to protect the transmission. To sum up its purpose, this fluid keeps the transmission in good condition by lubricating, cleaning, and cooling the gears. These gears carry power from the engine to the drive wheels. Over time, transmission fluid will degrade and lose its effectiveness. Without the proper amount and quality of fluid, your transmission is likely to experience premature wear and tear. That is why it’s important to take your vehicle in for transmission service on the schedule recommended by the manufacturer or by your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
What Happens During Transmission Service?
You may be wondering, what exactly takes place during a transmission service? The answer to this question will depend on your specific vehicle and whether it has an automatic or manual transmission. A manual transmission could need a variety of fluids such as hypoid gear oil, motor oil, and sometimes automatic transmission fluid. As for an automatic transmission, its fluid is simply called Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Depending on the needs of your vehicle, a technician’s main goal during transmission service is to drain old transmission fluid and replace it with new fluid to the proper level. Likely, they will also inspect the filter and clean or replace it depending on its condition. If need be, they will also clean the transmission pan or reinstall it with a new pan gasket.
Signs That You May Need Transmission Service
Your transmission fluid could possibly become contaminated in the period of time between its routine maintenance/transmission services. So, even if you’re not due for your vehicle’s next transmission service, it’s still a good idea to look out for signs of a damaged transmission. Some of the signs you may notice if your transmission has a problem include:
- You notice it is more difficult than normal to shift gears
- After pressing on the gas, your vehicle doesn’t move
- When the engine is running, you hear strange sounds such as grinding noises coming from underneath your vehicle
If you would like to see more advice on vehicle care, like how to jump-start a battery, call or come by the service department with Premier Clearance Center Metairie.
