General Transmission Repair Information

As your vehicle gets older, knowing about general transmission repair information is something you need to understand. There is nothing scarier than hearing from a mechanic that there is a problem with your transmission. Some understanding of your transmission and the problems that can develop will reduce this fear and will help you understand what is needed to be maintained and what repairs might be needed.

There are two types of transmissions, automatic and manual (sometimes called standard). Both these transmissions are used to transfer the turning power of the engine through the drive train to turn the wheels and make the car move. The manual transmission usually needs more maintenance than an automatic transmission.

Inside a transmission there are different size gears that increases or decreases the speed of the vehicle. Both types have three to five gears for forward driving and a one for reverse. Inside the transmission, there is a fluid, or an oil type of liquid to lubricate and cool the gears as they turn. As the transmission works, metal shavings and heat can cause the fluid to thicken by the debris or evaporation. Because of this thickening condition, the fluid level should be checked and replaced per the manufacturers recommendations.

Manual transmissions have a manual clutch and gear shifting mechanisms. The clutch is a device with two plates. One plate is attached to the engine transmission and the other plate is attached to the drive shaft. These plates, when in contact, turn the drive shaft which makes the wheels turn.  As the clutch pedal is depressed, these plates separate and, when released, make contact and move the vehicle. Over time, the protective coating of the plates will wear off and need to be replaced. Also the bearing that assists in the separation of these plates can wear out too.

For more general information on transmission repair, read through some of our expert articles listed below.