Part one of a three part series on scheduled auto repair explores transmission service. Part two will cover differentials,and part three will cover transfer case repair.
Transmission Service: When Should You Schedule it?
Please be aware that as a rule, when you take your car in to an auto mechanic, transmission service is not part of regular service. You generally have to ask for it. All vehicles have a timetable as to when you have to service your transmission, depending on what needs to be done.
How often you have to do transmission service depends on the make and model of your vehicle and how much you use it. For example if you tow vehicles, or do a lot of accelerating and decelerating more than usual, you’re going to need to come in much sooner than the proverbial little old lady who drives her car once a week on her way to church. Arizona puts unique demands on an automatic transmission.
Operating Temperatures and Transmission Repair
A vehicle’s operating temperature also plays a role. Automatic transmission fluid that may last for over 35,000 at 100°C may only last a quarter as long at 125°C. Considering that in June in Arizona, it can easily top 115, and your car is always hotter than the outside temperature. A good rule of thumb is to get your car in for transmission service in Mesa every 30,000 miles.
Some automakers indicate that your transmission fluid can last 70,000 or even 100,000 with the same fluid. It is a wise precaution however to have your transmission fluid checked when you do a scheduled auto repair such as an oil change. Unless you have a leak, your transmission fluid should stay at the same level. Unlike oil which is burned off bit by bit by your engine, transmission fluid doesn’t evaporate. However, one thing an auto repair center will look for while you’re in for transmission service is transmission fluid that is burned.
However, while they’re checking the fluid, your mechanics will also be checking other things, like the gears and the casing. All of this is part and parcel to excellent transmission service.
Trail Transmission
11240 East Apache Trail
Apache Junction, AZ 85120-3529
(480) 986-7367
https://trailtransmission.com/