Auto
Is it possible your car needs a tune up on its transmission?
Well, the following advice comes from the Federal Trade
Commission, the Automotive Parts Trade Commission and the
Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association.
Periodic
fluid changes and other maintenance recommended by your car
manufacturer are all that is needed if you don't notice any
problems. Leave well enough alone.
Unfortunately, you may, at some point, notice signs of
transmission problems: If your transmission fails to shift or
shows signs of delays shifting into the next gear, or if it
thumps or lags as opposed to shifting smoothly - or if the engine
speeds up when you step on the gas but the car
doesn't. Or
if your car is whining or making unusual noises, like grinding or
banging.
If, when the engine is cold
the car fails to move, but runs smoothly after it warms up, look
for pink, red or brown puddles under the car. You may also have a
transmission problem if your engine overheats or if your
transmission fluid levels drop and you need to add more fluid.
FIND
A REPUTABLE TRANSMISSION DEALER OR SHOPThe best recommendations will
come from family, friends, or your regular mechanic, neighbors,
or co-workers. Also check with your local Better Business Bureau
or a state or local consumer protection office to see if
complaints have been filed against a transmission shop you might
be considering. If you are dealing with an experienced
transmission repair specialist, they will ask you about
how your
car has been performing. They should also check the transmission
fluid, look at the condition of the motor mounts, and (if your
car is drivable) take it for a road test before they decide to
disassemble the transmission.
Ask to be shown in writing
what the maximum price you could be charged for repairs would be
before you leave your car. If the specialist is not prepared to
provide a maximum written estimate before they tear down the
transmission for an inspection, they should at least give you a
quote for the removal, disassembly, inspection and reinstallation
of your transmission. If you have to get the transmission rebuilt
or repaired, get written warranty protection.
BEWAREUnfortunately, there are rip
off artists everywhere. Some tactics you should be aware of and
not fall for:
There is always a certain amount of debris found in the pan of
many transmissions. This does not mean you have a faulty
transmission.
Transmission fluid that has been used for many miles may look or
smell "burnt". This might be an indication of a
problem, but on the other hand, a fluid and filter change may be
all that is needed. Have this tried first and see if the problem
persists.
If the price is ridiculously low, be suspicious. If it is routine
maintenance service for a transmission, it should take about an
hour. An unscrupulous person might advertise a very low price to
get people to come to their shop, and then try to sell you
unneeded repairs at expensive prices.
Happy Driving!
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