subject: Avoid Transmission Repair With Maintenance [print this page] There is no doubt that the cost of a transmission repair can be extensive. The amount due often depends on what parts need to be fixed or replaced and how much damage has already been done. However, there is a way to try and avoid this appointment all together. By taking good care of your vehicle and following through with all the required maintenance, you are investing in your vehicle and its proper functioning.
Full Fluid Exchange
Usually, a vehicle requires a full fluid exchange between 30,000 and 60,000 miles depending on the manufacturer's recommendation. If you tend to put significant miles on your car in a short amount of time, consider having this service done sooner rather than later. Remember that the goal is to avoid transmission repair and this appointment costs much less than replacing the entire system. Consider it a smart precaution.
A technician hooks up a machine to the cooler lines and starts the process. The older fluids are extracted while the new, clean fluid is being added. Because the vehicle itself is being used to push the fluids through, there is no added pressure needed to get things moving. This is important as unnecessary pressure could cause a problem down the line. The old fluid is disposed of and the vehicle should be ready to go.
Partial Service
A partial service can also help you avoid a costly transmission repair. The pan is removed and the fluid inside is replaced. This means that some of the fluid remains in the system. In order to keep things running properly, the filter is also replaced. While this is going on, a technician looks over the vehicle and does at least a visual inspection of the system. If there are problems, he or she will let the customer know what needs to be done. The goal is to make it through this appointment without needing a transmission repair.
The next time you make an appointment for maintenance or service, don't let the cost deter you from having the work done. Remember that this cost is always much less than a transmission repair that requires the replacement of some of the major elements of the powertrain. Even the smaller parts tend to be costly and the work is fairly labor intensive, adding even more to the overall cost. Take the time to take care of your vehicle. At every appointment, ask for an inspection so that you can have an idea of how things are going and whether or not you need to have extra services done to keep things running smoothly.
