What Makes Transmission Repair Affordable?
When a vehicle owner hears the words "transmission repair," they often see big dollar signs in front of their eyes! However, if they can gain a basic understanding of the various terms and methods of transmission repair, their confusion and fear can be greatly diminished. Unfortunately, the average driver knows little about transmission service. A little research done ahead of time can be helpful in understanding whether your vehicle requires a minor transmission service or a major transmission repair.
In-Car Repairs – A couple of problems listed below can be taken care of with an adjustment to the transmission without removing it from the vehicle. It will be less costly than a complete overhaul or replacement.
- Improper shifting: A computer-controlled unit can receive the wrong signals, or it may not react properly to a computer command. The computer may need to be reset. In a non-computer-controlled transmission, the throttle cable can be adjusted. Or, if the vehicle has a vacuum modulator, it can be adjusted, making sure that there are no vacuum leaks. In some older transmissions, bands can be adjusted to resolve "slipping" conditions (when an engine races while shifting from one gear to the next).
- Resealing: Resealing of most external fluid leaks can be taken care of with the transmission remaining in the car. But if the front seat needs to be replaced, the unit must first be removed from the vehicle in order to gain access to the leak, making it a more costly job.
- Out-of-the-Car Repairs – Other types of repair can only be resolved by removing the transmission from the vehicle. These are more costly as they require more hours of labor and involve various components that may need to be replaced.
- Rebuilding: During this process, the transmission is removed from the vehicle and completely disassembled. Each part is inspected for wear and damage and then either cleaned in a special cleaning solution or replaced, depending on its condition. Parts that have friction surfaces, such as bands and clutches, seals and gaskets, are typically replaced, as well as the torque converter.
- Replacement: This option replaces the transmission with another rebuilt or remanufactured unit. This may be more expensive, but it will get you out of the shop and on your way much faster than the first.
For expert advice on transmission repair, consult our ASE Certified Technicians at Elk River Tire and Auto today at (763) 441-2889 or go to www.elkrivertireandauto.com to find out more information about our transmission service. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
When a vehicle owner hears the words "transmission repair," they often see big dollar signs in front of their eyes! However, if they can gain a basic understanding of the various terms and methods of transmission repair, their confusion and fear can be greatly diminished. Unfortunately, the average driver knows little about transmission service. A little research done ahead of time can be helpful in understanding whether your vehicle requires a minor transmission service or a major transmission repair.
In-Car Repairs – A couple of problems listed below can be taken care of with an adjustment to the transmission without removing it from the vehicle. It will be less costly than a complete overhaul or replacement.
- Improper shifting: A computer-controlled unit can receive the wrong signals, or it may not react properly to a computer command. The computer may need to be reset. In a non-computer-controlled transmission, the throttle cable can be adjusted. Or, if the vehicle has a vacuum modulator, it can be adjusted, making sure that there are no vacuum leaks. In some older transmissions, bands can be adjusted to resolve "slipping" conditions (when an engine races while shifting from one gear to the next).
- Resealing: Resealing of most external fluid leaks can be taken care of with the transmission remaining in the car. But if the front seat needs to be replaced, the unit must first be removed from the vehicle in order to gain access to the leak, making it a more costly job.
- Out-of-the-Car Repairs – Other types of repair can only be resolved by removing the transmission from the vehicle. These are more costly as they require more hours of labor and involve various components that may need to be replaced.
- Rebuilding: During this process, the transmission is removed from the vehicle and completely disassembled. Each part is inspected for wear and damage and then either cleaned in a special cleaning solution or replaced, depending on its condition. Parts that have friction surfaces, such as bands and clutches, seals and gaskets, are typically replaced, as well as the torque converter.
- Replacement: This option replaces the transmission with another rebuilt or remanufactured unit. This may be more expensive, but it will get you out of the shop and on your way much faster than the first.
For expert advice on transmission repair, consult our ASE Certified Technicians at Elk River Tire and Auto today at (763) 441-2889 or go to www.elkrivertireandauto.com to find out more information about our transmission service. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
