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 Signs Your Transmission Might Need Repairs
Being aware of early signs of potential transmission issues is essential for maintaining your vehicle's performance.
Watch for these common indicators that you may need professional transmission repairs:
- Delayed Engagement: A noticeable pause before the vehicle moves when shifting gears.
- Rough Shifting: Jerky or clunking sensations when automatic and manual transmissions change gears.
- Fluid Leaks: Red or brown puddles under your car indicate a compromised seal.
- Burning Smells: A tart odor suggesting overheating fluid or slipping clutches.
- Strange Noises: Whining, buzzing, or grinding sounds that change pitch with speed.
Addressing these signs promptly ensures a proactive approach to potential transmission issues, preserving the reliability and longevity of your vehicle. At Christian Brothers Automotive Thornton, our skilled technicians are prepared to diagnose and resolve complexities, providing comprehensive transmission repairs to keep you confidently on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change transmission fluid?
Most manufacturers recommend a service every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, frequent driving on I-25 or towing in Thornton is often classified as "severe use," requiring more frequent intervals. We check your fluid condition during inspections to provide a personalized recommendation based on your actual driving habits.
What is the difference between a flush and a change?
A fluid change drains the pan and replaces the filter, refreshing about half the fluid. A flush pushes new fluid through the entire transmission system, replacing nearly all old fluid. We advise on the safest method for your specific vehicle age and mileage to avoid disturbing internal deposits.
How do I know if I have a leak?
A transmission fluid leak typically appears as a bright red or reddish-brown puddle beneath your car. You might also notice a burning smell if the fluid drips onto hot exhaust parts. If you see this, schedule a check immediately to prevent low fluid levels from damaging internal components.
Is it better to rebuild or replace a transmission?
This depends on the extent of the damage. A rebuild replaces only the worn parts of your current unit, which can be cost-effective. However, a transmission replacement in Thornton with a remanufactured unit often comes with a stronger warranty and faster turnaround time. We help you compare both options.
Why is my check engine light on?
Modern cars use the check engine light to signal drivetrain faults, not just engine problems. Sensors monitor the speed and pressure of transmissions Thornton vehicles use; if readings are off, the light triggers. A professional diagnostic scan is the only way to confirm if the alert is transmission-related.
Drive with confidence knowing your drivetrain is secure. Schedule your visit online or call (720) 709-1928 for quality you can trust.
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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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"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.