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Frequently Asked
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Frequently Asked
Questions |
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10- If I tell you the symptoms, can you tell me what will repair my problem?
I wish it were that simple. Don't get me wrong, but rarely have I had such an accurate description from a customer covering all needed information that the conclusion reached from that description was the correct one. In most cases, if I performed the repair based solely on the customer's perception, the problem would not have been resolved. Most people, including general technicians, don't have the depth of knowledge to adequately diagnose transmission problems.
The best I can do is give you information that might help you understand the problem or symptom, and provide some insight into some of the possible solutions.
Back to the Questions 11- I had repair work done, and now the transmission is acting up.
If you notice problems with your transmission right after other repair work has been done, call it to the attention of the technician or facility that performed the repair. Occasionally, a problem may be inadvertently created during a repair. But, don't wait too long; this "unintended consequence" should be investigated as soon as practical. Logic dictates that if the transmission worked well before, it should after. Just remember to use some diplomacy.
12- I have a computer controlled transmission and now the transmission is acting up. What could it be? Do I need a new transmission?
If you notice problems with your transmission, don't automatically assume that the problem is actually in the transmission. Computers receive information from numerous sensors, process the information, and then signal/operate the transmission. Often, the problem is in one of the sensors, an electrical connection, or system ground. In such a case, any work on the transmission will not resolve the problem. Equipment called scanners can "read" the codes stored in the computer and help pin point the source of most problems.
Therefore, it is imperative that the entire control system be diagnosed before the transmission is attacked. As the commercial says, "It's not you Father's Oldsmobile."
13- How do I find a good repair facility?
Maintaining your vehicles today can represent a major investment. Therefore, it is financially important that you establish a relationship with a facility that you can trust and have confidence in. As far as transmission repair, I generally recommend ATRA shop. They have promised to abide by a code of ethical repair, and most will issue a nationwide warranty of their work.
As far as general repair, the most reliable approach is to ask friends, co-workers, or members of any organization that you may belong to, who they use. That's usually the best source to get reliable information about their experiences with local repair facilities.
Contact your local Better Business Bureau to find out how long they've been in operation, how their track record has been in handling customer complaints, and other valuable information.
When you drive into a facility, use common sense. Does the shop present a credible, professional appearance? Does the shop look clean and organized? Do the employees appear to show pride and competence? Don't be afraid to use your gut feeling.
If you find a facility that you think will be right for you, have them perform a minor repair or periodic maintenance service to see how they operate. Note whether the final bill matches the estimate, if they keep you informed about the progress of the job, and if the repair was done in a timely manner. Did they push for more repairs than you felt were necessary?
When you talk to the service writer, is he/she knowledgeable, concerned, listen to you with the indication that they care about you as a person and not a potential profit? Were all of you questions and concerns addressed to your satisfaction, or did you feel intimidated? Most good shops will be interested in helping you form a long lasting relationship, so tell them what your criteria is from the start, and see if their answers match your expectations.
A good relationship with a repair facility takes some investment of your time and money, and should be done conscientiously, but the effort made can be invaluable in the long run. The worst thing you can do is run from place to place chasing all the come-ons, specials, and deals. Those never work out well.
Click here to locate an Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association shop near you.
Note: Good service is not cheap, but bad service is a total waste of your time and money!
Back to the Questions Most transmissions will not allow you to tow while using overdrive; You will be told to use the "normal" drive. However, there are some that will let you tow in overdrive. This is a chance to use the vehicle operating manual to find the answer the overdrive question. While you have the manual out, checkout the required service intervals, recommended tire pressures, etc. This is a book that is often ignored, but is filled with valuable information.
Back to the Questions 15- What does "scanning" a transmission do?
This procedure involves attaching a small diagnostic computer to a terminal in your vehicle if your transmission is computer controlled. This device is then used to address your computer to determine if any trouble codes are present and to "read" the output from numerous electrical sensors that feed information to the computer. All of this information is useful in determining the integrity of the electrical control system for the transmission. Scanners have become very important in the diagnostic process.
Note: Expect a nominal charge for this service.
Also note: When the computer "sees" any parameter from various sensors that do not fit established criteria, the computer will set a code for each error. However, there are some errors that will be present that the computer will not sense because they are within the normal range but are not necessarily valid. In that case, the system has to be diagnosed to determine if applicable sensors or other electrical components are performing incorrectly and creating an abnormal transmission operational response.
Back to the Questions Not necessarily. The fluid will become brown and start to smell burnt as a normal course of operation of the transmission. The rate at which it changes from its normal red color is a matter of the operating temperature of the transmission and time.
