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Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Basic Problems Of Your Vehicles Transmission

By Teddy Pendergastly

Failing auto parts can be separated into two categories: those that are expensive to repair or replace and everything else. Your vehicle's transmission falls into the first group. It can perform flawlessly for years, but when it begins have problems, you can expect a hefty repair bill.

Though most drivers don't realize it, their car's transmission is a particularly sophisticated piece of equipment. Its design borders on elegant; the gears intertwine perfectly and fluidly transfer power from the engine to the wheels. Unfortunately, like everything else, transmissions fail after enduring years of wear and tear.

Below, I'll briefly describe the components that contribute to the assembly's operation. I'll also make a few suggestions regarding what might be causing problems. What follows will not prepare you to perform major repairs. However, it should provide help for identifying and resolving simple issues.

The Parts Inside The Box

The main parts inside your car's transmission are the planetary, sun, and ring gears, housing, filter, and fluid. The gears are difficult to describe, but imagine the gearset inside a Swiss watch. The gears' teeth are perfectly designed to mesh with each other. Each gear is dependent upon the smooth operation of the other gears. The gearset within your transmission works in a similar manner.

The housing encases the various gears and components. The transmission fluid functions as a lubricant for the metal parts (similar to how motor oil lubricates your car's engine). The filter catches the debris in the fluid ensuring that your transmission avoids damage.

Easiest Things To Check

The first item to check is your fluid level. If the level is low, it can cause poor shifting within the gears. Given enough time, the lack of lubrication can cause friction, which leads to expensive damage.

If you notice the fluid is low, check for leaks. The fluid tends to have a reddish hue, so it's easy to identify. You might see residue on the selector shaft, near the speed sensor, or around the draining hole located (usually) on the underside.

The last item to check is the filter. Too often, drivers neglect to change it. But, just like your air filter, it does its job by accumulating debris. The problem is, after awhile, the debris can clog the filter and thereby, prevent the fluid from accessing the transmission. That leads to lack of lubrication and potential damage.

When Your Transmission Is Beyond Fixing

If there is a persistent problem that cannot be resolved by adding fluid or replacing the filter, you'll probably need a mechanic's expertise. Keep in mind that your transmission is a complex piece of machinery; taking it apart is time-consuming, difficult, and requires special tools and equipment.

Describe to your mechanic what you're experiencing while driving. Also, let him know if you've discovered fluid leaks. If your transmission is beyond the point of repair, your mechanic will suggest a rebuild. Prepare yourself; the work is expensive. The good news is that it will help your car run smoothly for years to come. - 21396

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