Transmissions have an undeservedly bad reputation as expensive and time-consuming to repair. In reality, most transmission issues can be quickly and inexpensively repaired if they’re detected when they start. As your Chevy dealer, we want to tell you about some signs that you need to visit us for a transmission service.
Signs You Need a Transmission Service at Your Chevy Dealer
Foul Smell
Transmission fluid is continually pumped through the transmission and cools the hot components as it moves over them. The fluid also coats these components in a protective covering that allows them to work effectively while protecting them from friction damage. The fluid’s most important role is to provide the hydraulic power that allows the gears to shift.
The fluid loses many of its special properties over time, including its essential heat resistance. Older transmission fluid can overheat in the hot transmission, and it can burn. If this happens, you’ll smell a foul burning rubber stench from the fluid. We solve this problem by draining the old fluid, flushing the transmission to remove any residue, and then refilling the transmission with new fluid.
Slipping Gears
This is a very scary situation, as the gears will suddenly shift, without any warning, to the previous gear. You’ll experience a drop in engine power and speed and usually hear the harsh sounds of metal grinding and clunking. These sounds are caused by the gears shifting against the resistance provided by the already-engaged gears.
This sudden movement can damage gears and gear teeth. It can be caused by a leak of transmission fluid, which also means the transmission leaks. Other possible causes are worn gear teeth, damaged transmission bands, or an issue with the transmission computer. Our technicians will examine your transmission, diagnose the problem, and repair it.
Damaged Transmission Mount
The transmission is connected to the frame by two transmission mounts. These mounts prevent the transmission from moving and act as shocks to prevent transmission damage caused by vibrations as you drive. The mounts are made from tough rubber and are liquid-filled to absorb an impact. In time, the rubber will age, and this can cause cracks.
The liquid inside a cracked mount will leak, reducing the mount’s ability to reduce vibrations. If this happens, you’ll hear thudding sounds when driving as the transmission moves. The transmission can’t break loose but will suffer impact damage due to these movements. We fix this issue by removing your transmission and replacing the damaged mounts, then we reseat the transmission and securely reconnect it.
If you suspect you have a transmission issue, contact us right away at Ted Britt Chevrolet in Sterling, VA. Our experts will have your transmission repaired in no time.
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