What to Expect With Transmission Services
1. Schedule Your Appointment
Whether scheduling online or over the phone be sure and let us know what you're experiencing so we can provide fast and accurate service advice.
2. Diagnostics and Inspections
Drop off your vehicle and the shop will get to work with inspections and diagnostics using the same equipment as the manufacturers to determine issues and next steps.
3. Digital Vehicle Inspection Report and Estimate
Following the diagnosis we will text you a digital vehicle inspection report, containing pictures and videos of our findings and recommendations.
4. Review and Approval
A service advisor will reach out to walk you through the findings and recommendations to determine how you would like to proceed, or you can approve work directly in your DVI.
5. Work Performed or Scheduled
Most work can be completed immediately, or scheduled based on parts and customer availability.
Did You Know: Henry Ford coined the term 'tune-up' while developing his initial automobile prototype.
Typical Indicators Your Transmission May Require Repair
Recognizing the early signs of transmission trouble is essential for maintaining your vehicle's performance and avoiding costly breakdowns. Your car often communicates issues through changes in sound, feel, or smell long before a complete failure occurs. Paying attention to these subtle warnings allows you to address problems proactively, safeguarding the longevity of your drivetrain.
Watch for these five common warning signs that your transmission needs professional attention:
- Unusual Noises: Whining, clunking, or grinding sounds while the vehicle is in gear often indicate underlying mechanical problems.
- Slipping or Erratic Gears: RPM spikes, delayed shifting, or a struggle to engage gears suggest the system is failing to transfer power correctly.
- Visible Fluid Leaks: Red or brown puddles forming beneath your parked vehicle signal a critical loss of fluid necessary for operation.
- Dashboard Warnings: The appearance of a "Check Engine" light or transmission-specific alert on your dashboard requires immediate diagnostic testing.
- Burning Odors: A distinct burnt smell, especially if accompanied by smoke, often implies the transmission fluid is overheating.
Addressing these signs promptly ensures a proactive approach to potential issues, preventing minor concerns from snowballing into major repairs. At Christian Brothers Automotive Cimarron Hills, our skilled technicians are ready to diagnose and resolve these complex concerns, offering comprehensive transmission service to keep you confidently on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have a transmission fluid leak?
Look for reddish or brown puddles underneath your parked vehicle. You might also notice a burning smell if fluid drips onto hot engine parts. Low fluid levels can cause slipping gears, so it is important to address leaks immediately to prevent severe transmission damage.
How often should I schedule transmission services?
Manufacturers typically recommend service intervals between 30,000 and 60,000 miles, but this varies by vehicle. Given the hilly terrain in Colorado Springs, more frequent checks may be necessary. We can check your fluid condition and recommend a schedule that fits your driving habits.
Is it better to repair or replace my transmission?
This depends on the extent of the damage and the age of your vehicle. A transmission repair is often sufficient for specific issues like solenoid failures. However, for high-mileage vehicles with severe internal wear, a transmission replacement might be the more cost-effective and reliable long-term solution.
What are common signs of transmission troubles?
Common symptoms include slipping gears, delayed engagement when shifting, and unusual noises like whining or clanking. If your check engine light comes on or you feel a shudder while driving, you should have your transmission system inspected by a professional right away.
Do you service both manual and automatic transmissions?
Yes, our technicians are skilled in handling both manual and automatic transmissions. From clutch replacements to torque converter issues, we have the expertise to diagnose and fix transmission concerns for all makes and models, ensuring your vehicle performs its best.
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FAQs
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Q. "What factors determine the price of transmission repair?"Many different factors go into determining costs of transmission repair. The major factor is what type of vehicle you drive. The year, make and model of the car, determine how much parts and labor will cost. Another factor is how much damage the transmission has sustained. Your transmission should last a minimum of 100,000 miles by servicing your transmission on a regular basis.
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Q. "What does automatic transmission service include?"Fluid is first drained from the pan during an automatic transmission service. A new transmission filter is installed with a new pan gasket once the pan has been removed. Finally, fresh automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is used to refill the vehicle.
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Q. "Is there a difference between a transmission fluid change and flush?"During a transmission fluid and filter change, it’s only the fluid in the pan that is drained and replaced with new ATF. Four to five quarts of fluid will typically be replaced in this process, while nine to thirteen quarts are replaced during a full transmission fluid flush. The difference in amounts is because the complete flush drains the entire system.
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Q. "Do you offer a shuttle service?"Yes! we understand you have a full schedule. Whether you need to get to work, school, or need to attend to other responsibilities, we can take you where you need to go. Click here to learn more.
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Q. "Do you offer a warranty?"As part of our Nice difference.® commitment to providing our customers the best auto service experience possible, we also offer a3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all the work that we do. We offer this warranty at every Christian Brothers Automotive nationwide, and it will be honored at any location, regardless of which branch did the initial work.
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Q. "Can you provide service under my extended warranty?"Yes. At Christian Brothers Automotive, we work with all major extended warranty providers to make needed repairs for our customers. If you have an extended warranty, you can discuss your carrier with our team when scheduling an appointment and confirm that the work will be covered. You can find a partial list of the extended warranty companies we work with here.
Have more Questions?
Our friendly auto service experts have the answers.
Call your local Christian Brothers Automotive car shop today
Hear What Our Customers Had to Say About Us
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"As soon as you walk in you Can feel the difference! You are greeted with a courteous and polite smile, the atmosphere and setting Is cozy,. The attention to detail In all aspects is like non-other experience at an auto shop! The attentiveness And customer "
- Laura