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.
Common Transmission Problems & How We Address Them
Experiencing strange noises, a slipping transmission, or gradual power loss? These issues often indicate transmission problems that require professional attention. Our technicians are equipped to diagnose and resolve such issues efficiently, reinforcing our commitment to getting you back on the road quickly and safely. Addressing these problems early can prevent more severe damage and costly repairs.
We can help you with:
- Slipping Transmission: Indicative of worn or damaged parts, often resolved by replacing faulty components.
- Grinding or Shaking: Often a sign of transmission wear, necessitating an inspection to replace or repair the transmission.
- Unusual Noises: Could mean low transmission fluid or a need for mechanical adjustment.
- Delayed Shifting: May signify an issue with transmission fluid, a sensor, or control system needing calibration or replacement.
- Fluid Leaks: A leaking seal or gasket can lead to costly issues if not addressed quickly.
Each of these problems can greatly impact vehicle performance and fuel efficiency. Our detailed diagnostic process uses state-of-the-art technology to pinpoint the root of the problem accurately, allowing us to offer targeted solutions that prevent recurrence and ease the burden on your budget. By addressing these issues promptly, we help maintain your vehicle’s reliability and longevity.
Why Choose Us?
At Christian Brothers Automotive Grand Rapids, we treat your vehicle with the same care and respect as you do.
Here's how we set ourselves apart:
- Transparency & Education: We keep you informed about your vehicle's transmission needs. Our team explains every service in straightforward, easy-to-understand language, so you know exactly what's being done and why it's vital for your vehicle's performance and longevity.
- On-Site Owner/Operators: Our hands-on owners are always available, providing a personal touch to every transmission service. They oversee all repairs, ensuring the highest level of care, attention to detail, and quality work.
- Welcoming Environment: Enjoy a stress-free experience at our Grand Rapids shop, which features a comfortable, family-friendly waiting area and convenient courtesy shuttle services. We ensure you stay on the move while we care for your transmission needs.
- Exceptional Warranty: We stand behind our work with an industry-leading warranty on all transmission services, giving you peace of mind that your vehicle is covered long after the service is complete.
- Commitment to Your Satisfaction & Safety: Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. We go above and beyond to exceed your expectations, ensuring your transmission runs smoothly and safely without compromising on quality.
At Christian Brothers Automotive Grand Rapids, we understand your time is valuable. That's why we offer convenient scheduling options and complete every transmission service efficiently while maintaining the highest quality standards. Schedule your service today and experience the difference!
For reliable transmission inspections, flushes, rebuilds, and replacements in Grand Rapids, contact us at (616) 739-6125 or online today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Get My Transmission Serviced?
Transmission service frequency depends on your vehicle make, model, and your driving habits. Typically, it’s recommended to have your transmission fluid checked and changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, if you frequently drive in heavy traffic or tow heavy loads, more frequent checks may be necessary. At Christian Brothers Automotive Grand Rapids, we provide personalized maintenance schedules to ensure your transmission remains in top condition based on your specific needs and local driving conditions.
What Are the Signs My Transmission Needs Repair?
If you notice grinding, slipping, or unusual noises while driving, it might be an indicator of transmission trouble. Delayed or harsh shifting can also suggest internal issues. Another warning sign is fluid leaks under your vehicle. Transmission fluid is typically red or brown, and any unusual leakage should be checked immediately to prevent further damage. Our technicians at Christian Brothers Automotive Grand Rapids can perform a detailed diagnostic to identify and resolve any issues promptly.
Can I Drive with a Small Transmission Leak?
While it might be tempting to ignore a minor leak, driving with any transmission fluid leak can lead to significant damage over time. Transmission fluid is essential for lubrication, cooling, and the hydraulic pressure system within your vehicle, and a leak can compromise all three functions. If you suspect or discover a leak, it’s best to have it inspected and repaired at Christian Brothers Automotive Grand Rapids to avoid costly repairs or replacement.
Moreover, undetected leaks can reduce transmission fluid levels over time, increasing friction and heat that further deteriorate your vehicle's internal components. Our comprehensive inspection and repair processes utilize advanced diagnostics to ascertain leak sources and restore fluid levels efficiently, safeguarding your vehicle’s performance and longevity.
How Does Grand Rapids Weather Affect My Transmission?
The seasonal weather changes in Grand Rapids can affect transmission performance. Cold temperatures can thicken transmission fluid, while hot conditions may lead to overheating if fluid levels are low or contaminated. Regular maintenance checks are crucial, particularly before seasonal transitions, to ensure your transmission is adequately protected against local weather conditions.
In winter, road salt and moisture can also contribute to component corrosion, affecting seals and gaskets. By scheduling regular inspections at Christian Brothers Automotive Grand Rapids, you can preemptively address such issues, providing your transmission with the necessary protection and reducing the risk of unexpected failures. Our local weather insight allows us to tailor maintenance routines specific to Grand Rapids’ climate, ensuring your vehicle is well-prepared for any weather challenges.
What Are the Benefits of Regular Transmission Maintenance?
Regular transmission maintenance not only prolongs the life of your transmission but also optimizes your vehicle's performance. By routinely checking fluid levels and replacing them as needed, you help prevent internal wear and tear, improve fuel efficiency, and avoid unexpected breakdowns. At Christian Brothers Automotive Grand Rapids, our proactive maintenance services are designed to keep your transmission in optimal condition, saving you time and money in the long run.
Additional benefits include enhanced driving smoothness and vehicle safety. A well-maintained transmission enables seamless gear changes, reducing the likelihood of stalls or disruptions and providing a safer driving experience. Our comprehensive maintenance inspections cover all critical components, ensuring peace of mind and reliable vehicle operation through every drive.
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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"I liked the customer service and going above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable while waiting in the store for my vehicle work to be done, specifically being offered a nice hot coffee with creamer."
- J.L.