Transmission Flush

Archive for January, 2010

What can you expect from a full-service auto repair center? When an automotive center declares full-service car repair and maintenance, you should expect state of the art diagnostic services – including computer diagnostics – as well as all major and minor general repairs, including computer reprogramming. The auto service should have a highly qualified and experienced automotive mechanic certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

ASE certification of automotive mechanics involves documentation of two years of related work experience and passing a specialty test. Even after certification, a mechanic has to be retested again every five years in order to maintain it.

A good auto service center should be familiar with your foreign or domestic vehicle type, whether it be a Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Dodge, Jeep, Plymouth, Chrysler, Daewoo, Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Jaguar, Volkswagen,Volvo, Acura, Honda, Lexus, Scion, Toyota, Nissan, Infiniti, Mitsubishi, Hyundia, Mazda, or Suzuki. It should be able to supply you with high quality automotive parts from reputable suppliers such as AC Delco, Bosch, Remy, Motorcraft, Mopar, Goodyear, Dayco, Echlin, Standard, Cardone, Autolite, NGK, Akebono, Nipedenso, and Denso.

The auto service should be able to handle electronic steering, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power convertible tops, power sunroofs and power locks. It should be knowledgeable on electrical troubleshooting for all types of electrical shorts, as well as problems related to alternators, hoses and belts such as timing belts. Equal quality control should be given to minor work such as on the auto air conditioning (A/C) repair or major work such as on the engines, whether for engine rebuild or engine replacement.

Auto repair likewise covers checking of cooling systems and radiators, and transmission service and maintenance such as the transmission flush, checking and repair of oil leaks and oil change service. It includes taking care of brakes and tractions control systems such as antilock brake systems (ABS).

An auto service should handle body systems and suspensions, including front suspension, rear suspension and air suspension. It should be able to manage air bag systems.

For your automotive security needs, the auto service should likewise have expertise in anti theft systems, including remote starters and key reprogramming.

You should expect quick and correct diagnosis that is explained properly. Have the mechanic identify whether the procedures are necessary to correct existing problems or if they are for preventive maintenance.

Ask for a price estimate for the entire work to be done on your vehicle, as well as a definite time schedule and clear warranties. Ask for an itemized invoice with a detailed listing of parts and services and corresponding costs. Have them identify if the parts are brand new, used or remanufactured. Make sure that your authorization is solicited before any work is done. Ask that replaced parts be returned to you.

Choose a reputable auto service center with a professional nationwide warranty program covering parts and labor for one year or 12,000 miles. All you will need to do is call a toll-free number and you will be directed to the nearest facility that can provide the necessary repair or replacement.

Good auto service centers can also offer you low rates for vehicle rentals while your own vehicle is being repaired. Even then, you should expect the auto service center to comply with the repair schedule for your vehicle and to be proactive in informing you of the progress of the work.

Your auto repair center should deliver on all its promises. The repair work should not entail a return job. In the event of any complaint from the client, a good auto repair center should have a consumer complaint processing system in place, giving full and fair settlement. With all these in place, it will indeed qualify as a high standard auto repair center.

It is important to replace your transmission filter every 30,000 miles or so. It can be a fairly easy and inexpensive job for someone with an average knowledge of mechanics.

The first thing you must do is remove the transmission dipstick and set it aside. You will then jack up the vehicle and securely support it with jack stands. With the vehicle raised, look for your drain plug; it will be located on either the transmission pan or the case. Place a drain pan beneath the drain plug.

Leaving two pan bolts on both side, remove the other pan bolts to release the transmission fluid. Take out the two bolts on one side as the fluid runs out. When the fluid seems to be done draining, loosen the remaining two bolts. When these two bolts are nearly out, hold the pan with one hand and remove the two bolts with the other hand.

With these bolts now out, lower the pan and let it drain into the drain pan. Remove the old gasket from the pan, being careful to not cause any significant scratches or gouges. (Note: if you see a small plastic plug in the pan, you can throw it away; it is used in the building of the transmission and is of no use).

Almost all transmission pans contain a magnet that is used for collecting the steel dust. Clean this magnet off, return it to the pan and then clean the interior of the pan, too. After cleaning the pan, place a bead of weather strip cement around the mating surface of the pan. Place a new gasket inside the pan and press it onto the cement. Rest the pan, along with the new gasket, on a clean and flat surface to allow the cement to harden.

Take the mounting bolts from the old filter, making sure to avoid the excess fluid that will pour out. Remove the old filter and then allow the fluid to drain. This can take anywhere from twenty minutes to an hour. Install the new filter and your drain plug. You may want to put some wheel bearing grease along the top of the pan gasket in order to seal it. Be sure to tighten every pan bolt and then refill the car with transmission fluid.

Save 30-40% over dealers! We offer instant prices and certified replacement transmissions. Visit our website at www.StreetSmartTrans.com or call us toll-free at (866) 980-6091. Locations in most states.

When choosing the right auto repair shop in Bradenton 34207, these are some things you should take into consideration. First, find out if the automotive shop you are inspecting offers full-service car repair and maintenance. If they say they do, make sure this means they are capable of accurate diagnostic services, even computer diagnostics. Of course, this should also mean they are capable of doing all major and minor general repairs, from auto air conditioner (AC) repair up to engine rebuild or engine replacement and computer reprogramming.

It would be best to have an auto repair shop in Bradenton 34207 whose automotive mechanics are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and who are specialists in various aspects of auto repair. Check if their certification is current since these certifications need to be updated through retesting every five years.

Reputable auto service centers are knowledgeable in handling various types and brands of vehicles, including such brands as Cadillac, Chevrolet (Chevy), GM, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Dodge, Jeep, Plymouth, Chrysler, Daewoo, Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Jaguar, Volkswagen (VW), Volvo, Acura, Honda, Lexus, Scion, Toyota, Nissan, Infiniti, Mitsubishi, Hyundia, Mazda, or Suzuki. They also offer automotive parts from respected brands including AC Delco, Bosch, Remy, Motorcraft, Mopar, Goodyear, Dayco, Echlin, Standard, Cardone, Autolite, NGK, Akebono, Nipedenso, and Denso.

Don’t shy away from asking detailed questions. Find out if the auto repair shop services electronic steering, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power convertible tops, power sunroofs and power locks, as well as air bag systems. Are they familiar with repairing brakes and tractions control systems such as antilock brake systems (ABS)? Ask if they do electrical troubleshooting on all types of electrical shorts, alternators, hoses and timing belts.

Remember that the auto repair shop should also have expertise in cooling systems, radiators, transmission service, transmission flush, fixing oil leaks and providing oil change service. They should be experienced and equipped to fix body systems and suspensions, covering the front suspension, rear suspension and air suspension.

Security is another main concern for every vehicle. Does the auto repair shop handle anti theft systems such as remote starters and key reprogramming?

Of course, you should ask about their various auto service rates and compare these with the competition. What about warranties? Make sure you choose an auto repair shop in Bradenton 34207 where you are fully covered and protected as a customer. Keep in mind that there are shops that offer a professional nationwide warranty program for both parts and labor up to one year or 12,000 miles. If possible, do not settle for less.

Inquire if the auto repair shop is able to rent you a vehicle at a low rate while your own vehicle is being serviced. This will be a great convenience for you.

Other factors in choosing the right long term auto repair shop can only be assessed once you have had your vehicle serviced there. Is their diagnosis efficient and correct? Is it explained to you properly along with what needs to be done? Does the mechanic distinguish between procedures for preventive maintenance and repair? Are you given a complete price estimate and work schedule? Is the schedule adhered to? Do they update you regularly on the progress of the job? Do they ask for your approval before doing anything beyond what was originally agreed upon? Do they identify replacement parts properly and indicate if they are used, remanufactured or brand new? Do they itemize the cost of specific parts and services in the invoice? Do they return replaced parts to you, properly tagged?

Once you have gone through the aforementioned checks and the auto repair shop has passed muster, then you know you have found the right auto repair shop for your long term use in Bradenton 34207.

A car with automatic transmission was first developed in the 1940′s; the popularity of the automatic gear box has risen greatly from the 50′s. They have become hugely successful in the United States and other parts of the world, but in Europe the old fashioned manual transmission still reins supreme with car customers. Having a car with an automatic transmission system means that there is no clutch pedal and there is no need to worry about gear changing as the automatic gear box does all the hard work for you. It’s an argument of preference between purchasing a car with an automatic or a manual gear box. Some advantages of both over the other are highlighted below.

Advantages of Automatic

Automatic cars are much easier to get used to, especially if you are a new, elderly or learner driver. Some people prefer them because there is no need to worry about which gear to select or the actual manual gear changing itself, the clever automatic transmission does it all for you, this is especially advantageous when driving through traffic or busy towns and cities as you don’t have to worry about constantly changing gears as you would with a manual transmission. Learner drivers are allowed to learn and take their test in an automatic car which could turn out easier to pass, however if you do pass using an automatic car it will be on your licence and you will not be allowed under law to drive a manual transmission car.

Advantages of Manual

The biggest benefit of using a car with manual transmission is you have a greater control over gear selection; gears can be selected and changed in accordance to the person’s judgment and the situation in hand. There are also greater financial benefits if you own a manual transmission car, it is a well known fact that cars with an automatic gear box will use more fuel per journey over the same car in its class with a manual submission, which could be down to many facts such as automatic cars are usually heavier. Manual cars are not only cheaper to run but they are also cheaper to maintain, if something goes wrong with the transmission on an automatic car it can become very expensive indeed to fix. If your battery or something else related where you will need to bump start the car, this is very easy to do with a manual car as you put it in gear, roll down the hill and bump it, with an automatic car however you can’t really do this so you will have to call for road side assistance instead. Manual transmission cars are also slightly cheaper to purchase in the first place compared to cars with an automatic transmission.

Technological advances in the car industry has enabled the gap between cars with automatic and manual submissions to shorten, as a result more and more people are investing their money in an automatic car as their next new automobile. For some people who are unsure, there are semi-automatic cars on the market which have an automatic transmission system but also they will usually feature an override button so you can switch to manual transmission using the gear stick.

Shifting Gears

The automatic transmission performs only as well as the automatic transmission fluid (ATF) put into it.  Components fo the automatic transmission such as the torque converter, clutch packs, brake bands, gears and hydraulic system all place special demands on ATF.

Torque Converter

The torque converter is a fluid coupler between the engine and the gears of the drivetrain.  The torque converter consists of two halves, one attached to the engine (impeller) and one attached to the transmission (turbine).

As the engine spins the impeller, ATF is forced across a small gap onto blades of the turbine, causing it to spin as well.  The rotating turbine eventually provides power to the drive wheels.

Fluid Requirements: Thermal and Oxidation Stability.  Anti-Corrosion Properties.  Seal Compatibility.  Minimal Viscosity/Temperature Change Characteristics.  Anti-Foam Ability.

Clutch Packs and Brake Bands

These are mechanical devices which release or hold rotating members.  When applied with transmission fluid pressure, clutches and brake bands will either hold or turn the gear sets to provide different gear ratios.

Fluid Requirements: Correct Frictional Properties.  Thermal and Oxidation Stability.  Minimal Viscosity/Temperature Change Characteristics.  Anti-Wear Properties.

Gears

Gears are the muscle of any transmission, whether manual or automatic.  Gears transfer torque and power and can provide the vehicle with changes in speed and direction.

Planetary gear sets are used as the basic means of transferring or multiplying torque from the engine in an automatic transmission.

Planetary gear offer many advantages over manual slide-type gears.  Force is distributed over many teeth for more strength.  They are always in mesh and do not have to be shifted to change gears.  Therefor, they do not clash like gears going in and out of mesh.

Fluid Requirements: Extreme Pressure Properties.  Anti-Wear Properties.  Anti-Corrosion Properties.

Transmission Hydraulic System

The transmission oil pump, driven by the torque converter, generates fluid pressure inside an automatic transmission.

Pressurized fluid is the force used to move the valves that determine shift points.  The control valve assembly senses inputs from many sources and regulates the valves to provide smooth shifts at the correct time, based on vehicle speed and engine load.

Fluid Requirements: Minimal Viscosity/Temperature Change Characteristics.  Anti-Corrosion Properties.  Seal Compatibility.  Anti-Foam Capability.  Anti-Wear Properties.

AMSOIL Synthetic ATF and other Group IV synthetic oils provides unmatched thermal and oxidation stability, and it maintains its viscosity over a much wider temperature range than conventional ATF, maximizing transmission performance.

What characteristics, features and services should you look for when choosing an auto repair shop in Bradenton 34207? It goes without saying that it is most advantageous to have an automotive repair shop with full services in terms of car repair and maintenance. Such a full service automotive shop should be able to provide correct diagnostic services, including computer diagnostics. Full service also covers all major and minor general repairs, ranging from the simplest auto air conditioner (AC) repair to engine rebuild, engine replacement and computer reprogramming.

It is very important to choose an auto repair shop in Bradenton 34207 employing automotive mechanics who specialize in different areas of auto repair and hold certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Look for their certifications and make sure they are current. Such certifications need updating through tests every five years.

You should also check on the vehicle brands that an auto service center handles. It will be an advantage if the automotive shop is experienced in servicing a wide variety of brands including Cadillac, Chevrolet (Chevy), GM, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Dodge, Jeep, Plymouth, Chrysler, Daewoo, Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Jaguar, Volkswagen (VW), Volvo, Acura, Honda, Lexus, Scion, Toyota, Nissan, Infiniti, Mitsubishi, Hyundia, Mazda, and Suzuki. Likewise, it would be beneficial if the auto service center offers genuine automotive parts from reputable brands like AC Delco, Bosch, Remy, Motorcraft, Mopar, Goodyear, Dayco, Echlin, Standard, Cardone, Autolite, NGK, Akebono, Nipedenso, and Denso.

The expertise of the auto repair shop should not be limited only to engines but should also extend to cooling systems, radiators, transmission service, transmission flush, and oil leaks. It should not neglect something as simple as oil change service. On the other hand, the auto repair shop should also be able to handle body systems as well as the front suspension, rear suspension and air suspension.

Your auto repair shop of choice should be knowledgeable in fixing electronic steering, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power convertible tops, power sunroofs and power locks and air bag systems. It should be able to repair brakes, tractions control systems like antilock brake systems (ABS), alternators, hoses and timing belts. It should also be capable of electrical troubleshooting for all types of electrical shorts.

An auto repair shop should, of course, be updated in vehicle anti theft systems and be able to install, maintain and repair remote starters and do key reprogramming.

You should not ignore an auto repair shop’s rates. Look for an auto repair shop that balances excellent service with competitive pricing. Also look for competitive warranties. Some auto repair shops are part of a professional nationwide warranty program that offers a warranty for either a year or for 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Ask for something equivalent to this or better.

You should also interview existing clients of an auto repair shop in order to further evaluate their performance. Look for a shop that is consistent in giving accurate diagnostic services; and is able to clearly explain such diagnosis in layman’s terms. Look for shops that explain if procedures are for maintenance or repair. Look for complete and accurate price estimates. Look for work that is consistently finished on schedule. Look for efficient reporting and updating on work progress. Look for invoices that itemize all parts and services. Look for properly tagged and returned parts that have been replaced. These are the hallmarks of a truly professional auto repair shop.

As the client, you have all the right to make sure that the auto repair shop you choose in Bradenton 34207 passes your most stringent requirements.