Therefore, you want to check your transmission for problems, but are on a tight schedule. Do not worry; it happens to the best of us. The truth is that the transmission is a very complicated machine, and prone to wear and tear if not properly maintained, and so there is a real possibility that there may be something wrong. To better schedule your time, here are a few tips about the length of time it may take for a car transmission repair specialist, or you yourself, may take to diagnose your transmission.
Most Shops Will Ask for about a Day
There is a lot that happens in a car repair shop every day, what with dozens of clients and the individual maintenance and repairs that occur. When you bring in your car for repairs, you may be put into a queue as part of a first come, first serve system. Even though the diagnosis itself usually only takes one to two hours, the shop will tell you to leave it with them for anywhere from a half day to a full twenty four hours, so that they can finish the work scheduled before your car. Despite the wait, and the service charge they will place on the diagnosis, a mechanic shop will give you a precise and accurate diagnosis of the transmission, and possibly other parts in the engine, as well as a quote on how much repairs will cost you.
However, if you do not have the time to spare, and want to save your money, you can attempt to diagnose the transmission yourself, though this may not be as accurate.
Checking the Fluid Levels
Since a transmission is a bunch of gears all whirring at extremely high speeds, it can become a mess in a hurry if it is not well lubricated. A transmission uses a special kind of lubricating fluid, called (believe it or not) transmission fluid. While oil keeps the rest of the engine running well, this fluid is designed specifically for the pressure exerted by the transmission. Good, fresh fluid is usually a bright red color, unless you have an undyed fluid that will turn darker and browner as it ages and becomes subjected to the heat and wear of an engine. The darker in color it is, the older it is, and the less effective it will be for lubricating the transmission. The engine will have a dipstick similar to that of the oil, with which you can look at the fluid levels and color. If any of this fluid has been leaking, then you can know trouble is imminent.
Listening to the Sounds Your Car Makes
Another indicator of transmission problems is the sounds it makes. As you drive, you can listen to the sound of the engine as you shift gears. If you hear grinding, whining, or clunking as you change from one gear to the next, or if there is a significant delay, then you will want to take it to a mechanic as soon as possible.
With your transmission, you can never be too careful, as it is critical to the performance of your vehicle. If there is any doubt, begin your search for a capable mechanic to perform transmission repair charlotte NC.