At Christian Brothers Automotive Warwick, our ASE-certified technicians want to help you avoid agreeing to repairs you may not even need. Today, we’re going to discuss the transmission and what you can look for before arriving at our Oklahoma auto repair center.

4 Basic Parts of Your Transmission

• Bell housing – this cone shaped part covers the flywheel and the clutch underneath your car.
• Gears – Automatic transmission cars still have gears, you’re just not shifting them yourself. These are responsible for regulating the speed of the output shaft.
• Fluid – Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is very important! It keeps everything lubricated and running smoothly. Most cars use a fluid that is bright red in color.
• Filter – The filter catches any dirt or grime before it contaminates your transmission fluid.

With this basic terminology, you’ll be better equipped to have an intelligent conversation with your mechanic. Knowing what your mechanic is talking about is half the battle!

Most Common Transmission Problems

Typically, transmission problems fall under one of two categories. It either won’t shift gears at all, or it will have trouble doing so. If you can find your way around a vehicle, there are a few things you can check at home before taking it to a professional. Even if you don’t know anything about cars, make sure your mechanic checks these three areas first!

Check your transmission fluid level

It’s a good idea to check your transmission fluid level twice a year to keep an eye on it. Low fluid will affect how your car shifts and will eventually lead to transmission damage. Checking the fluid level regularly will help you stay on top of leaks, too.

How to check for transmission fluid leaks

Checking for leaks isn’t as involved as it sounds. There are a few different places where they can occur. It’s best to check them all for good measure.

• The filler tube base

• Drain hole underneath the transmission

• Between the transmission and the engine

• At the selector shaft

• The radiator

Replace the transmission filter

We cannot stress enough how important the transmission fluid is. Beyond checking the fluid level, it will also need to be replaced. Overtime, the fluid will degrade and lose its ability to properly lubricate important parts of the transmission system. It’s important to change the fluid when the manufacturer specifies in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

How We Handle Transmission Services

At Christian Brothers Automotive Warwick in Oklahoma City, we understand that transmission repairs can be daunting. That’s why we will always clearly explain our services, the repairs your car needs and your options going forward – so you can make the best decision for your vehicle. Our work is backed by the 2-year/24,000-mile Nice Difference warranty and our staff members are experts at what they do. Call Christian Brothers Automotive Warwick in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma today to schedule your transmission service and see the nice difference in auto repair!