If you own a car with an automatic transmission, it's essential to understand how it works and how to take care of it. An automatic transmission is responsible for shifting gears automatically without the need for a driver to manually shift. It's a fantastic convenience, but like any other mechanical device, it requires maintenance to ensure it operates optimally. A transmission is a complex mechanism that requires expertise to service, and that's where a mechanic comes in. This blog post will explain how a mechanic services an automatic transmission, what to expect and how you can best take care of your automatic transmission.
1. Diagnostics: The first step a mechanic takes when servicing an automatic transmission is to diagnose the problem. A transmission can fail due to several reasons such as overheating, low fluid levels, worn-out transmission parts and so on. During diagnostics, a mechanic will use a diagnostic scanner to identify the problem, the number of error codes and the severity of the malfunction. The scanner will highlight issues with the transmission. If the issue is severe, the mechanic will take further diagnostic steps such as opening the transmission to examine the internal parts.
2. Flushing the Transmission: Flush isn't a term for a new dance craze. It's the process of replacing old or dirty transmission fluid with clean fluid. Transmission fluid is essential in maintaining smooth gear shifting, and it helps to maintain an ideal operating temperature for the transmission. Over time, transmission fluid can wear out and accumulate debris, resulting in clogs that can damage the transmission. A mechanic will use specialized equipment to flush the old fluid and replace it with a new one.
3. Rebuilding the Transmission: In severe cases, a mechanic may rebuild the transmission. This happens when the transmission has undergone significant damage, and the only solution is to rebuild it from scratch. Rebuilding a transmission is a complex process and requires specialized tools and expertise. The mechanic will remove the transmission from the vehicle and dismantle it part by part. Once all parts are replaced or repaired, the transmission is reassembled, installed back into the vehicle and tested.
4. Road Testing: Once the service is complete, the mechanic will take your car for a test drive to ensure that everything is running smoothly. The test drive is an important step in determining whether the repairs were successful. Additionally, the mechanic will check for unusual noises and gear stiffness.
Contact a mechanic to learn more about automatic transmission services.
