Don’t Forget to Flush – Transmission Is Your Mission
Difficulty shifting, slipping gears, delay in movement, poor acceleration, and leaking fluid are telltale signs you are in for a bad day.
Not to be the skunk at the garden party, but your transmission needs a flush. Not tomorrow, not when you feel like it, but right now.
Your next thought is, “How much will this cost?” While it’s not free, it’s much less expensive than replacing your transmission for around $5,000. And all because you forgot to flush. It’s such a simple thing. All you need to do is head straight for Complete Auto Service of Ann Arbor. There’s no waiting here, and our mission is to keep you from having to replace your transmission.
We get it; you’re frustrated and bombarded with questions. Who wouldn’t be? The transmission isn’t something we think about daily; it’s one of those necessary evils that grabs our attention when the situation presents itself.
A Vehicle Transmission Flush: To Everything There Is a Purpose
So what’s the purpose of a transmission flush? A transmission flush removes old transmission fluid and replaces it with new fluid. This process can:
- Prevent transmission issues
- Improve performance
- Extend the life of your transmission
- Remove sludge
- Inspecting and cleaning the transmission pan
- Replacing the filter
- Performing transmission servicing
A transmission flush differs from a fluid change, which only drains and refills the transmission. This can leave some old fluid in the transmission, contaminating the new fluid and reducing performance.
A transmission flush is essential for removing dirty fluid from the system and replacing it with clean fluid. The benefit of a flush is that your system is re-lubricated, contributing to your vehicle running better.
What’s the Cost?
A transmission flush costs about twice as much as a transmission fluid change because a flush requires 12 to 22 quarts of fluid, while a fluid change only needs 5 to 7 quarts.
While it sounds pricey, it’s pocket change compared to replacing your transmission.
What Are Some Symptoms of Dirty Transmission Fluid?
- Leaking
- Problems shifting gears
- Burning smell
- Check engine light
- Transmission noise
- Grinding gears
- Slipping transmission
- Delay in acceleration
- Whining or grinding noises
- Erratic shifting
Transmission fluid lubricates the transmission and keeps the machinery operating at the right temperature. The reduced cooling ability of your fluid will cause the transmission to overheat if it is dirty, low, or contaminated. It is possible that a hot transmission will affect other parts of the vehicle, including the engine’s ability to remain cool. An overheating transmission can cause permanent and costly damage to your car, and that’s the last thing you want.
Does My Car Need a Fluid Change or Flush?
If the fluid level is below the minimum mark or the fluid is dark or contains particles, you’re overdue for a transmission flush. On the other hand, if the fluid level is between the maximum and minimum marks and the fluid is pink and clear, it isn’t necessary to get a flush yet.
If you are unsure, the best thing to do is to bring it to a reputable auto service and have it checked. The technician can advise you whether you need a fluid change or a flush.
What Can I Do to Keep My Transmission Running Smoothly?
Checking your vehicle’s transmission fluid level, color, and smell regularly as scheduled is one of the easiest ways to prevent transmission failure.
Keeping the gears lubricated and preventing them from grinding is essential to keeping your transmission working properly.
The transmission and its other components can be damaged if the transmission fluid level falls too low, causing the gears to grind against one another.
In addition, make sure you check your owner’s manual to find out which transmission fluid your car should use, because transmission fluid can also affect the gears and cause damage.
- Start the engine first before checking the transmission fluid. During testing, it is necessary to test the liquid while it is warm to determine its level and color accurately. Leave your vehicle idling on a flat, level surface.
- The dipstick should be pulled out, wiped clean, and replaced slowly. Pull it back out again. Determine the fluid level by looking at how high it comes up on the dipstick (note: lines are labeled “low” and “high” to make this more clear).
- Wipe the dipstick with a clean, light-colored rag to ensure it is the right color. If it is in good condition, you should see a reddish-pink color in your fluid. A faulty one will have a brownish-red color on the outside and noticeable dirt and other contaminants on the inside.
Some Benefits of a Transmission Flush Include:
- Smoother, more consistent shifting
- The transmission runs cooler
- Protection against wear to clutches, gears, and bearings
You’ll feel an immediate difference in the operation of your vehicle when you have clean fluid: no more whining and no more difficulty shifting.
A transmission fluid change takes about 30 minutes. A flush may take longer. At Complete Auto Service Of Ann Arbor, you don’t stand in line because you’re always first. We know the inconvenience of waiting. That’s why we care for your vehicle as if we are caring for those of our loved ones. You need your car; we need a few minutes to send you on your way.
The bad news is that your transmission is giving you fits. The good news is you are our priority. We have certified technicians with a work ethic that is second to none, and we love what we do. You will, too.
Photo by Wesley Tingey on Unsplash
Give us a call or bring your car to us today. And while you’re at it, have a seat in our lounge and a cup of coffee on us.