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Four Common Misconceptions that Could Cost You Money!
Many transmission problems start as electrical malfunctions. Equipment such as sensors, computers, and wiring send signals to make the transmission work. If a problem occurs, it could be something outside the transmission that is causing it. Fortunately, these problems can be corrected while the transmission is still in the vehicle and are far less expensive than an overhaul. In most of these cases, the inside of the transmission is still in good condition and does not need to be repaired. A well-trained professional at Omaha Transmission is able to inform you of the exact problem and discuss the best option for your vehicle.
With today's complex vehicles, it is impossible to know the cause of the problem and the proper repair needed until testing is performed. Beware of businesses that price quote over the phone; they may overcharge you for a simple repair, or you could become a victim to the temptation of a low-price quote over the phone, and then get stuck with a higher price once the repair is complete. Omaha Transmission will invite you in for an accurate diagnosis, provide an accurate explanation, and determine the actual cost of the repair needed.
Some large franchise businesses tend to be better at selling transmissions than fixing transmissions and may focus more on quantity rather than quality. They can have a high turn-around in management, with some having managers who are not actual technicians and do not understand transmission repair. Professional, independent businesses like Omaha Transmission rely on quality technicians, and knowledgeable and ethical business practices to operate successfully. As trained auto repair professionals, Omaha Transmission looks out for the best interest of the customer.
This statement could not be further from the truth. The transmission industry is constantly changing, and auto manufacturers are trying new designs each year to achieve smoother running and more fuel-efficient vehicles. With these new standards, innovative training and equipment are required, which some transmission companies do not take as seriously as others. For example, a customer could overpay by thousands of dollars if the transmission company does not have the proper training and diagnostic skills to pinpoint the root cause and/or actual problem quickly and accurately. Omaha Transmission prides itself on having exceptional technicians who are trained to use the most advanced technology and equipment.
How to Keep Your Automatic Transmission Healthy
Follow your manufacturer's suggested service intervals and use only OEM (original manufacturer equipment) standard or higher quality parts and fluid. Allow only a transmission specialist to perform maintenance on your transmission. Do not "flush" your high mileage transmission if it is working properly.
This is beneficial to both the transmission and the engine. Vehicles that sit outside on cold winter nights can allow transmission fluid and other fluids to reach temperatures below freezing. When transmission fluid reaches freezing temperatures, it thickens and is harder to move through the small passages inside. If the fluid does not get to the accurate location quickly, serious problems may occur. An average of 5 to 10 minutes of idling before departure should be sufficient and will make your transmission run smoothly.
Most people forget about their transmission until it stops working. Be sure to check your transmission fluid at least twice annually and keep an eye out for leaks.
Making a complete stop when shifting from reverse to forward or forward to reverse will benefit the transmission and the rest of the drive-train. Components inside the transmission are turning in different directions when in forward and reverse and need to stop completely before shifting. Otherwise, damage may likely occur, especially if the vehicle is stuck in snow, mud, etc.
Stepping on the brake and gas at the same time causes a binding effect on the transmission and may cause it to overheat and possibly fail prematurely. More specifically, do not "power brake" the vehicle to try to get the tires smoking; this could kill your transmission on the spot!
Heat is what destroys many transmissions. The heavy load you pull, or push will cause the transmission temperature to rise, sometimes higher than tolerable. Installing a high-quality auxiliary transmission cooler will benefit the transmission and extend its life in service. Most importantly, if your vehicle is equipped with a "Tow Mode" button, use it. Also, if you are towing in OD (overdrive) and the transmission starts constantly shifting to maintain speed, it will become hot, so downshift to D (drive) or press the OD (overdrive) cancel button. When plowing snow, make frequent stops with the transmission idling in neutral; this will help it cool down. And remember, come to a complete stop when shifting from forward/reverse!
Good running engines help transmissions work easier. The easier they work, the longer they last!
Please feel free to call Omaha Transmission with any questions regarding routine maintenance. We would be happy to assist you!