Transmission Service

Your transmission enables you to change gears and adjust to different speeds. Over time, transmission fluid can become contaminated, or the components may deteriorate. That's when it's necessary to replace your transmission fluid or filter. We provide custom transmission services for vehicles in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania. Read on to explore practical steps that help you save expenses on future transmission repairs.

What Is Transmission Service?

A transmission service is a routine maintenance procedure. It typically includes inspecting and replacing the transmission fluid, checking for leaks, and sometimes replacing the transmission filter to prevent contaminants. In some cases, you may also need a transmission fluid flush.

Importance of Regular Transmission Maintenance

Regular transmission maintenance will help prevent the need for costly future repairs. Benefits include:

• Improved reliability: Ongoing maintenance decreases mechanical malfunctions.
• Enhanced fuel efficiency: A properly maintained transmission transfers power more efficiently, resulting in lower fuel consumption.
• Smoother driving: Routine maintenance helps ensure smooth gear shifts, essential for a comfortable driving experience and safety.

Common Transmission Problems and Symptoms

Be on the lookout for any of these signs of transmission trouble:

• Clunking or grinding noises: Any clunking, grinding, or buzzing noise signals that some of your transmission components might be worn.
• Burning smell: A burnt odor in your vehicle might suggest that the engine has overheated or the transmission fluid is leaking.
• Delayed gear shifts: When your car takes longer than usual to change gears, this could indicate a transmission problem.
• Fluid dripping: A red or brown pool under your car often means a fluid leak.
• Car vibrates while driving: Your car shaking at certain speeds or changing gears often hints at transmission troubles.

Automatic vs. Manual Transmission Services

An automatic transmission shifts gears automatically based on driving conditions. Regular service helps maintain performance and includes transmission fluid changes or flushes to prevent overheating and reduce wear. If you experience issues with shifting, diagnostic testing may be necessary.

A manual transmission includes a clutch, gearbox, and gear shifter. Service includes clutch inspections, fluid checks, and gear adjustments. Manual transmissions are generally less expensive to repair and have lower long-term maintenance costs, whereas automatic ones are often more expensive to fix and maintain. Both transmission types benefit from routine maintenance to extend longevity.

Modern automatic cars, with continuously variable transmissions and advanced gear-shifting technology, can offer similar fuel efficiency to those with manual transmissions.

Fluid Changes and Flushes: How They Work

A fluid change is a partial refresh of your vehicle's transmission oil. It involves draining the old liquid from the transmission pan or reservoir and replacing it with new fluid. This only changes a portion of the old fluid, usually 30% to 50%.

A fluid flush helps deep clean your transmission system. Special machines or extra cleaning solutions remove all the old fluid. A flush also washes out lime deposits to clear away dirt, debris, or sludge. Once the cleaning is complete, fresh fluid is added to the system.

Regular fluid changes can be an effective way to maintain your vehicle's optimal performance. However, a fluid flush is necessary when the fluids are foul or have significant residue buildup.

Transmission Repair vs. Replacement: What To Consider

Here's a guide to deciding between repair and replacement when your vehicle's transmission starts to malfunction.

Transmission Repair

In this scenario, only the broken parts are fixed or replaced. However, this option isn't ideal if the damage is extensive or affects many parts.

Transmission Replacement

A transmission replacement involves removing the old and installing a new, used, or remanufactured one. It's ideal when the transmission has so much damage that repairs are prohibitively expensive. It may also be suitable for newer cars or those seeking long-term reliability.

Preventive Maintenance Tips for Transmission Longevity

Follow these simple tips to keep your transmission in good shape:

• Check the transmission fluid regularly: Pop the hood and check your transmission fluid. It should appear clean with a reddish tint.
• Don't skip fluid changes: Automobile manufacturers generally advise 30,000 to 60,000-mile intervals for fluid changes.
• Keep the cooling system in good working order by regularly checking components, such as the radiator and cooling lines. For heavy towing and hot weather conditions, opt for a transmission cooler.

Benefits of Choosing John Kennedy Mazda Conshohocken

Our John Kennedy Mazda Conshohocken dealership offers expert diagnostic services and maintenance repairs to identify and resolve your car's issues. When it comes to transmission diagnostics, choosing a professional service like ours can help you get thorough and accurate testing. Our experienced care helps extend the life of your vehicle's transmission and improves its overall performance.

How To Schedule Your Transmission Service in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania

You can easily schedule an appointment if you're in Conshohocken and it's time to service your transmission. Our skilled technicians specialize in Mazda vehicles. They'll handle everything when you come in for service, from checking your transmission to changing the fluid and filter if necessary. Please contact us or stop by our dealership.