Transmission Service

Transmission Service: Your Roadmap to Smooth Shifting

One of the most critical systems in any vehicle is the transmission, which transmits power from the engine to the wheels. Without a transmission, a vehicle simply wouldn’t move. Despite this, it’s a component that many drivers don’t pay much attention to. 

Maintaining the transmission with regular checkups and timely transmission fluid changes can ensure it runs optimally. At RGV Tire Pros/Valvoline Express Care, we offer all transmission services, including transmission overhaul and replacement. 

What Is a Vehicle's Transmission?

The transmission is a system in a vehicle that transmits power to the wheels so they can move. The transmission typically consists of five to six gear sets and gear trains which allow the driver to control the power going to the wheels. 

These gears are located inside a gearbox with different gear ratios. Each ratio is associated with a speed range and load. When you change gears, you’re essentially changing the gear ratio.

The clutch plays a pivotal role in the transmission. It must be engaged while changing gears so that the engine can be disengaged. 

Manual vs. Automatic Transmission

There are two types of transmission: 

Manual Transmission: This type of transmission is operated by the driver and requires a clutch pedal. Also known as a stick shift, the manual transmission system is not standardized, so the number of gears varies by vehicle. You must press the clutch whenever you need to change gears, and then depress it to reconnect the engine to the transmission.

Automatic Transmission: In this type of transmission, a computer automatically selects and changes the gear. Automatic transmission makes driving more convenient as the driver only has to focus on accelerating and braking, with no need for the clutch. However, the maintenance and repairs for automatic transmissions are generally more expensive. 

At RGV Tire Pros/Valvoline Express Care, we service both manual and automatic transmissions, providing complete transmission diagnosis and repair. 

Common Transmission Problems

If your vehicle's transmission fails, you will be unable to drive it. It’s best to deal with a transmission issue early to avoid more costly repairs. 

Here are some of the common issues that affect transmission systems in vehicles:

Noises in Neutral

If your vehicle is making grinding noises while in neutral, there may be something wrong with the transmission system. In many cases, the grinding noise may also occur while accelerating and in drive gear. The underlying cause may vary depending on the transmission type, vehicle, and age.

Gears Don’t Shift

If the gears don’t shift or take longer to shift, it’s a sign that something is wrong with your vehicle’s transmission system. One common reason for this problem is low or poor transmission fluid. This fluid keeps the transmission system clean and debris-free.

Transmission Fluid Leak

Transmission fluid leakage is a serious issue that must be dealt with immediately. Leaking fluid will eventually lead to more significant problems in your vehicle’s transmission. 

The fluid is red in color and has a sweet smell. If you notice such a fluid underneath your vehicle, bring it to a professional at RGV Tire Pros/Valvoline Express Care immediately to locate the point of the leak, such as a transmission cooler hose or gasket. 

Vibrations or Grinding in Gears

If your vehicle vibrates, shakes, or kicks when shifting gears, there’s likely an issue with the transmission system. Whether you have a manual or automatic transmission, the shifting of the gears should be smooth. If your vehicle doesn't shift gears smoothly, a broken component or low fluid may be the cause. The grinding and shaking may be more noticeable in a stick shift. 

Burning Smell from Overheated or Low Transmission Fluid

If the transmission fluid is low or overheated, it can produce a burning smell. This can cause the different parts of the transmission to undergo more friction, which can lead to more significant issues. If you detect a burning smell from your vehicle, schedule an inspection with the professionals at RGV Tire Pros/Valvoline Express Care immediately for transmission problems.

Transmission Maintenance and Service

It’s vital to follow the transmission maintenance schedule for your vehicle. The transmission filter and fluid should be replaced in a timely manner. Similarly, regular inspection of the fluid level and gears can help your transmission run smoothly. 

In the case of a significant fault in one or more system components, your vehicle will need a transmission rebuild or repair. The expert transmission mechanics at RGV Tire Pros/Valvoline Express Care can guide you on whether your vehicle needs a complete transmission replacement or more simple repairs.

Contact RGV Tire Pros/Valvoline Express Care for Transmission Service and Repairs 

At RGV Tire Pros/Valvoline Express Care, our transmission experts can perform transmission maintenance, inspect transmission fluid levels, and look for leaks and other problems. We also offer transmission reconditioning and repairs if you experience issues with gear shifts.

Contact us at 956-585-5823 or 956-766-7037 for the most reliable transmission services in Mission and Palmdale, TX.