What happens when the Transmission goes out?

If you are having shifting issues, don’t delay in talking to your transmission repair technician.  Because the transmission system is constantly exposed to both heat and stress, it is crucial that you keep up with routine transmission service.  This means that you want to make sure all the many components are correctly lubricated and in good working condition.  Don’t find out the hard way what happens when the transmission goes out!

The key to making sure your vehicle continues to run smoothly and efficiently for many miles is to follow the manufacturer’s service interval recommendations as listed in your owner’s manual.  Usually, this schedule recommends a transmission service between every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.  

A transmission service is a vital part of maintaining your vehicle.  Just the normal wear and tear on your transmission creates millions of tiny abrasive metal that fall into your transmission fluid and can cause your transmission to fail.

What is included in a transmission service?

• The old transmission fluid is drained out, the pan removed and cleaned.
• A checkup of the drained oil for any indications that there are hidden issues in your transmission.
• Removal and replacement of the transmission filter.
• The pan is replaced and a new gasket fitted.
• The transmission is filled with new, clean oil and tested for leakages.
• Your car is tested on the road to make sure that it is operational after the transmission service has been completed.

What happens when the transmission goes out?

• Shifting Issues:  You may find it hard to shift, it won’t stay in the right gear, or you hear a “whining” sound or clunking and thumping sounds when you shift.
• Worn-out parts:  Worn out transmission parts may find you have to force the gearshift into the next gear, causing your vehicle to lurch or jerk while shifting. 
• Warning light:  If the transmission warning light comes on accompanied by shifting problems, ask your transmission repair technician to run a diagnostic test. 
• Transmission failure:  You may be facing a costly transmission repair, such as a transmission rebuild.  

Are you wondering about what happens when the transmission goes out?   Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about transmission service and make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served car owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.