Your transmission might be automatic, but it doesn’t automatically take care of itself. You’ll need the occasional transmission service to keep those gears shifting smoothly. Signs you need a transmission flush or full service session could be a bad smell, grinding noise, or when the engine revs before shifting gears.
The local auto shop can figure out if the issues you’ve noticed are caused by leaking fluid, worn-out parts, or something else altogether. Then, we can recommend a transmission flush, a fluid replacement, a rebuild, or other mechanic services.
Everything seems fine with the car? Be sure to pay attention to the routine transmission service recommended by the maker—adjusting for how much you drive, of course.
Transmission Service or Flush?
Full transmission service is usually the better option for fixing problems, while a flush is more of a routine maintenance task.
A transmission flush is just what it sounds like. We drain the old fluid and replace it with a high-quality new fluid. Vehicles can greatly benefit from getting a flush at least every few years.
During transmission service, we can do a lot more:
- Inspect used transmission fluid to identify problems like corrosion or debris
- Change the transmission filter
- Replace gaskets
- Reseal a leaking transmission
- And more
How Often to Get Transmission Service?
Manual transmissions need service more often than automatics. This isn’t something to do as often as an oil change, though. Heavily driven sticks might need new fluid every 20,000 miles or so, but most manual owners only need transmission service about every 50,000 miles.
How often to get automatic transmission service varies a lot more. You might need it every 30,000 miles, but perhaps less often. Expect to need a flush or service more often as the car gets older.
If you find that you need to replace the transmission fluid frequently, you probably have a leak. This can require extensive transmission service that involves taking apart several parts. Be sure to work with a local mechanic in Windsor, CA that you can trust to do the job quickly and efficiently.
Signs You Need Transmission Service
Transmission problems can trigger a check engine light or other dashboard warning. Often, though, the driver will need to watch out for symptoms such as:
- Rumbling, roaring, or grinding noise when you put the car into gear
- Burning smell coming from engine
- Car feels like it’s lost power
- Gear shifts feel delayed
- Car slips out of gear unexpectedly
- Red, pink, or brown fluid under vehicle
- Metal shavings in transmission fluid
Schedule Transmission Service in Santa Rosa, CA
A vehicle’s transmission is a crucial component that needs proper lubricant, seals, and tuning. If you’ve noticed any problems while shifting gears or leaking fluid, or it’s been a long time since you took the car in for transmission service, contact us to schedule a flush or service with the best auto shop in the Santa Rosa
