Whether you drive a car, SUV, or truck, a well-maintained transmission is essential for smooth gear shifts, efficient power delivery, and optimal performance. If something goes wrong or it's time for routine maintenance, finding the right transmission shop in Memphis, TN, becomes essential. At City Auto, we offer comprehensive transmission services, from maintenance and repairs to complete replacements. In this guide, we'll explore what the transmission does, why it's crucial to keep it in top condition, and the signs that it may need attention.

What Is a Vehicle Transmission?

It's easy to take your car's transmission for granted when it's doing its job. However, it's one of the most vital and complex components of your vehicle. The transmission takes the power generated by the engine and transfers it to the wheels via a system of gears to propel the car.

The lower gears are more powerful, providing the necessary torque to get the vehicle moving from a standstill and accelerate through low speeds. The higher gears use the engine power more efficiently to reach and maintain faster speeds. If your transmission fails, your car won't move, which is why regular maintenance is so important.

There are different types of transmissions, each offering a unique driving experience. A manual transmission gives you more control, providing an engaging connection with the vehicle. The most common transmission in the U.S. is the automatic transmission, which offers a more convenient and relaxed drive. A continuously variable transmission uses a pulley and belt system that provides seamless shifting through infinite gear ratios.

Memphis, TN Transmission Services

At City Auto, our highly trained technicians have the knowledge and expertise to carry out a full range of transmission services. Our state-of-the-art service center has cutting-edge tools and diagnostic equipment to complete repairs to the highest standards.

Transmission Fluid Change

During a transmission fluid change, our technician will lower and drain the transmission pan, replacing the filter if necessary. Then, they'll reinstall the pan and add fresh fluid to the system. For this process, only about 20% to 40% of the old fluid is drained, but the addition of new fluid helps the transmission work more efficiently.

Transmission Fluid Flush

For a transmission fluid flush, our technician uses a special machine to remove the old, contaminated fluid. A flush additive is used to clean the transmission and remove accumulated sludge. The filter is replaced, and the transmission is refilled with fresh, new fluid. A flush helps the transmission run cooler and provides maximum protection against wear.

Transmission Repair

If your transmission develops a fault, our certified technicians can use specialist computer diagnostics to detect the precise issue. Common minor fixes include replacing leaking axle seals, gaskets, and O-rings or changing faulty electrical sensors in the transmission housing or pan.

Transmission Rebuild or Replacement

When your transmission suffers major damage, we may be able to rebuild it. Our technicians will remove and disassemble the transmission and inspect, clean, and replace internal and external components as required. The transmission will then be reinstalled, refilled with fluid, and tested. In cases where the damage is too severe to repair, we can replace the transmission.

Why Change the Transmission Fluid?

Transmission fluid is crucial for smooth gear shifting and efficient performance. It helps to lubricate and cool the moving parts. As the fluid ages, it deteriorates and becomes contaminated with debris, making it lose its lubricating and cooling properties. This can result in poor performance and possible transmission damage.

Regular transmission fluid changes or flushes help improve performance and fuel economy and prevent expensive repairs in the long term. You should always check your owner's manual for recommended fluid change intervals. If your car is subjected to severe driving conditions such as frequent stop-and-go driving, towing heavy loads, or regularly driving up and down steep hills, the fluid may need changing more often.

Common Signs of Transmission Issues

With regular maintenance, your car's transmission should remain trouble-free for thousands of miles. However, if a fault does develop, there are usually warning signs that tell you there's a problem:

• Gears not engaging: If your car won't move when you put it in gear, the issue could be low transmission fluid or a faulty shifter, or a shifter cable.
• Delayed or missing gear shifts: When your transmission doesn't engage or shift gears, it's often a sign of low or contaminated transmission fluid.
• Slipping gears: If the transmission shifts the gears at the wrong time, such as late downshifts or the engine revving too high, this could indicate low fluid
  or worn components.
• Unusual noises: Clunking, humming, or roaring noises from the transmission could signal a worn bearing, gear damage, or another internal problem.
• Burning smell: An unpleasant burning odor often comes from fluid leaking onto hot components or having low fluid, which can cause the clutch to
  burn.
• Leaking transmission fluid: If you see fluid under your car, this could indicate a transmission fluid leak, often due to worn seals or gaskets.
• Check engine light: The check engine light can turn on for a variety of reasons, and a transmission problem is one of them.

Modern cars rely on a computer to tell the transmission when to shift gears. Our technicians can check the computer system for fault codes. If you notice any of these problems, schedule a service appointment as soon as possible. Detecting an issue early can save costly future repairs.

Why Choose City Auto for Service?

Established in Memphis, TN in 1986, City Auto has become an integral part of the local community. Our team is committed to providing customer service that's second to none. When you bring your car to our service center, you can be confident that it's in the safest hands with our certified technicians and that the work will be carried out to the highest standards.

Schedule a Transmission Service Appointment

If your car's transmission hasn't been checked for some time, bring your vehicle to us for a diagnostic and fluid check. We'll make sure it operates as smoothly and efficiently as it should.

Experience expert transmission repair in Memphis, TN. We offer fast, professional service to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Book your appointment with our technicians today.