An automatic transmission creates a lot of internal heat through friction: the friction of the fluid churning inside the torque converter, friction created when the clutch plates engage, and the normal friction created by gears and bearings carrying their loads.

If you don’t change the transmission fluid on schedule, you’ll be lubricating your transmission with metal shavings and other contaminants. This will shorten the transmission’s life and the result could be very expensive. In other words, changing your transmission fluid at the correct interval is a good investment.

Although they’re not nearly as common today as they were years ago, some drivers may still prefer vehicles with manual transmission. Our technicians understand the advantages manual transmission can offer and below are some of their points:

• Manual transmissions contain fewer moving parts than automatic ones. That means they tend to be more economical and require less maintenance. As a result, the manual transmissions don’t need to be serviced as frequently as the automatic variety, and when they are, it is usually less expensive.
• Manual transmission requires a driver to handle shifting between gears. Doing so the driver can boost the fuel economy — this is achieved by correctly shifting gears, minimising power loss and results in optimal fuel economy.

1. Problems When Shifting

The car’s gears are an important part of the transmission system, so problems during shifting will be your first sign that something is wrong. Keep an eye out for jerking sensation when shifting, or if the car hesitates when moving to a different gear. There might also be a grinding sound when shifting in manual cars, or a shaking sensation when shifting in automatic cars. Either of these are signs that the vehicle may need transmission repair.

2. Strange Sounds

Transmission issues are sometimes accompanied by unusual sounds coming from the vehicle. If your car produces whining or buzzing noises, especially when in neutral, there’s a chance that a failing transmission is the culprit. Since these sounds can be indicative of other problems. We recommend giving us a call as soon as you notice odd noises coming from your car.

3. Leaking Transmission Fluid & Burning Odour

If you notice fluid underneath your vehicle, we recommend taking a closer look. Unlike oil, transmission fluid typically has a reddish hue to it. Leaving a transmission fluid leak unchecked can lead to more serious problems and costly damage to the vehicle. In addition to leaks, a burning smell is a common sign that the vehicle needs transmission repair. When the transmission is failing, the gears tend to overheat and produce friction, which is why it gives that burning odour.

Give us a call on (02) 9337-1136 or email sales@vaucluseauto.com.au