Signs that your Transmission is Wearing Off

It is inevitable that our transmission will eventually wear out even with proper maintenance. Since we’re talking about transmission failure, let us first tackle the causes of this problem. Transmission failure is caused by improper maintenance and the misuse of the vehicle. And if you are driving and you feel something is not right when the gears are shifting, it’s time to have it checked. 

Here are some signs of Transmission Problems:

1.       Transmission Slipping

Transmission slipping is where you’re driving in a certain gear and it suddenly changes for no apparent reason. The noise from the engine may change in pitch or start to sound like whining. Other signs are that your car seems like it is having a hard time, underpowered or isn’t accelerating like it should. Get it checked immediately.

2.       Delayed Engagement

Another thing that you would notice is a delay when the car actually engages into drive and starts moving forward. Also, when you shift out of “Park” to “Drive”, there may be a long pause during which the car revs the engine as you give it fuel, but it is not moving forward as it should be.

3.       Fluid Leaks

If the transmission is sealed, it should not experience fluid leak. If you notice some leak spots on your garage floor, lay down some cardboard under the car in the middle and front to determine if your car is actually leaking. If your transmission is leaking, the fluid is bright or dark red. If that happens, visit your transmission specialist or mechanic. And if you are from Melbourne, we at N & V Automatics are your Automatic Transmissions specialist in Seaford. 

4.       Rough Shifts

When driving your car, the transmission refuses to shift or the gear shifts aren’t very smooth. You might also hear a noticeable clunk or thud when the car shifts gears. Your car can also have difficulty in speeding up.

5.       Warning Light

A warning light alone, such as the “Check Engine” light typically doesn’t mean you have a transmission problem, but if symptoms above occurs, you might want to get your car checked or fixed immediately.

Different Vehicle Transmission

Manual transmissions have remained relatively unchanged throughout the years, while other transmissions like automatic transmissions, semi-automatic transmissions and CVT’s have become increasingly complex, but easier to use.

Today, we’ll discuss the different types of transmission, how they work and advantages and disadvantages of each one.

Manual Transmission

Most modern manual transmissions today has five or six forward gears. A manual transmission is connected to the engine via a clutch, which if disengaged, removes torque from the system. With the clutch engaged, power is delivered to the transmission through an input shaft from the primary cluster, and rotates through different speeds to the cluster.

Pros:

·         Cheap Repair;

·         Extremely robust and can handle high torque loads;

·         Very reliable and relatively easy to maintain and repair;

·         Solid link between the wheels and engine.

Cons:

·         Can be difficult to operate for drivers who are accustomed to automatic transmission

CVT or Continuous Variable Transmission

Unlike other transmissions, this kind of transmission doesn’t use gears to produce various vehicle speed. Instead of gears, the system relies on a rubber or metal belt running over pulleys. And to keep the belt at its optimum tension, one pulley will increase the effective diameter while the other decreases its effective diameter by exactly the same amount.

Pros:

·         Better fuel efficiency;

·         Faster response to changing driving conditions;

·         Eliminates energy losses associated with torque converters;

·         Constant acceleration throughout the engine’s optimum operating range;

·         Provides a comfortable ride by eliminating Shift Shock.

Cons:

·         Unsuitable for off-road environments

·         Cannot provide engine braking

Full Automatic Transmission

In an automatic transmission, the hydraulic operated control system is managed electronically by the vehicle’s computer. All the driver has to do is shift the selector from Park, Neutral and into Drive and the gear shifting will take place automatically and smoothly.

Pros:

·         Very easy to use;

·         Modern Automatic Transmission can match the manual’s fuel efficiency and performance;

·         Provides a comfortable driving experience.

Cons:

·         Can be Unsuitable for off-road because it doesn’t provide engine braking

·         More complex system.

Installing a Transmission Cooler

One of the causes of transmission failure is overheating and installing a transmission cooler would help prevent this from happening. Not only will it prevent too much heat inside your transmission but will also extend the life of your vehicle transmission. Ordinary driving scenarios can place stress on any transmission and hard driving or trailer pulling can make the strain even worse. Installing a transmission cooler on your vehicle can reduce the stress and strain on your vehicle and help it run more efficiently. Here are some advantages you should know.

1.       Cooler Running

If you are regularly pulling a trailer, it can put strain on your transmission and additional weight can cause the transmission to overheat. Installing a transmission cooler is the best way to prevent this and stop the transmission fluid from breaking down. When the transmission fluid gets hot, the transmission fluid begins to break down and won’t be able to provide the protection it was assigned to do. By using a transmission cooler, you can make sure that this problem won’t happen.

2.       Reduced Cost

Installing a transmission cooler can greatly increase the life of your transmission by allowing the transmission to run cooler and efficiently. Considering the cost of new transmission, it would be costly and installing a cooler to help your transmission is money well spent and a great investment that will help you save money for the long run.

3.       Fuel Economy

The prices of fuel continue to rise and investing on a transmission cooler will alleviate the engine and transmission that can result into better fuel economy.

Aside from installing a transmission cooler, vehicle maintenance will also help with the efficiency and longevity of your vehicle. If you are looking for someone who will check and service your transmission, we are always available at N & V Automatics. Visit us today! 

Misconceptions on Engine Oil Change

When it comes to keeping our car running, we need to conduct preventive maintenance. Changing your engine oil is one of the most important part of car maintenance routine. It is where you change your dirty engine oil and replace it with clean oil. But there are some misconceptions about the process which we’ll debunk and tackle for today.

Myth # 1 Thicker Motor Brings Extra Protection

The thickness of the motor oil doesn’t indicate wear protection. An additive called ZZDP or Zinc is the main formula that protects the engine from wear. Motor oil that is too thick can cause decrease in engine performance in some cases. Many vehicle manufacturers are now recommending vehicle owners to use motor oil that isn’t too thick for better economy.

Myth # 2 Change the Oil Immediately if it’s Black

Oxidation is the main reason why your engine oil is turning black. If your engine is exposed to high temperatures, the motor oil darkens rapidly. The motor oil also darkens because it absorbs by product from combustions. The dark colour doesn’t mean that you need to change oil immediately, it is better to have a qualified mechanic to check the vehicle first.

Myth # 3 Synthetic Oil is more slippery and Causes engines to leak

This myth began to circulate when synthetic oil was brought out in the market in the 1970’s due to the misunderstanding of the product. Well, this myth isn’t true.

Myth # 4 Don’t switch between synthetic and conventional motor oil

It is okay to switch back and forth between conventional and synthetic oil. Also, motor oils that are labeled as synthetic blends are already a blend of both conventional and synthetic oil. Check the owner’s manual for your vehicle for recommendations.

It’s always safest to consult your trusted mechanic for advice and check-ups, on oil changes and other vehicle maintenance matters.  N & V Automatics in Seaford, Melbourne can help you keep your vehicle running like a well-oiled machine. We specialise in transmission servicing and transmission preventive maintenance. 

Transmission Repairs Jobs

Transmission Repairs Jobs

Having transmission problems but worried about the cost of repair?  Well don’t, not all transmission repairs are expensive. Today, we’ll be discussing several problems we encounter within our automatic transmission repair shop.

Low Transmission Fluid Levels and Leaks

Transmission leaks will eventually cause your transmission fluid to run low. This, is by far the most common problem we encounter in our shop. Leaks can be caused by several things and a certified transmission mechanic should be consulted in order to determine the exact cause.

Some leaks are minor and require a new seal at the shifting linkage, or a drain plug may be loose and needs to be tightened. Other causes include a loose filter tube, or the coolant line may have sprung a leak and need replacement.

Looking under the car to locate where the leak is coming from is the first step. If you see that the leak is coming from around the pan on the bottom then it’s time to change your filter and gasket. If the fluid comes from the front or the back of the transmission, it is probably leaking from the main seal, which may need to be replaced immediately.  

Transmission Noises

Transmission noises are signs of a problem inside your transmission and calling in some transmission experts to check on your transmission is essential to avoid the possibility of increasing cost of repair. Another sign of an automatic vehicle transmission problems is the delay in the movement when you shift your vehicle.  This should also be investigated immediately.  

Shaking and Grinding

If you start your engine and you feel that your car is shaking or grinding, there might be a problem with your transmission. Grinding and shaking are indicators that your transmission isn’t working well and needs attention right away.

As with many mechanical problems, deferring investigation of transmission issues can lead to much higher repair costs than a repair made early on.  Do you need help from experts? Call N & V automatics today to book an inspection and quote.  We specialise in automatic transmissions and offer professional services that will suit all your transmission needs. 

Changing your Engine Oil

Changing your engine oil is essential to keep our vehicle running smoothly. When that time comes, there are three choices; ignore the problem, change the engine oil yourself or go to your trusted mechanic to do the job. It’s tempting to do it yourself, right? But here’s what experts has to say about changing your oil.

Why is it important for us to change oil?

There are important task your motor oil is doing for your vehicle. First, it lubricates the engine to keep it working smoothly. Second, it acts as a cooling agent keeping the engine at optimal level and keeping it from overheating. Lastly, it prevents harmful substance from accumulating and sludging up your engine.

Changing your motor oil prevents damage and offers additional benefits like fuel economy and convenience.

Professionals are trained to do this 

                                

Changing your engine oil is a dangerous task and can damage your vehicle if not done properly. Improper disposal of the dirty motor oil can also be dangerous to you and the environment. Amateurs are likely to commit mistakes such as using the wrong motor oil, overlooking engine leaks or cross threading the filter.

Changing Engine Oil isn’t Easy

Changing oil can be tricky especially when dealing with an old vehicle. You can avoid the inconvenience and mess by having a professional take care of it.

How often you should change your oil?

The standard recommendation is to change oil about every 3000 miles to 4000 miles. Others recommend every 3 months depending on how you use your vehicle. However you shouldn’t have to undergo change oil frequently because of the advancements in vehicles and motor oil. Technicians will be able to estimate if your oil will need to be changed based on the condition of your vehicle and your engine oil. 

Importance of Transmission Coolers

Transmission overheating is a major problem for vehicle owners. The ideal temperature for a transmission is under 75 degrees and every increase can cause serious problems. To prevent this from happening, vehicle owners may choose to install an auxiliary oil cooler for the transmission fluid.

Most automatic cars comes with a separate heat exchanger for the oil, close to the radiator. Given the temperature of the radiator, a short cycle through this heat exchanger doesn’t reduce the temperature of the automatic transmission fluid.

However, if you are using your vehicle to tow a trailer, boat, caravan, etc. It may be better to install an auxiliary transmission fluid cooler on your vehicle. During the process of towing, the vehicle’s transmission takes extra stress, which raises the temperature of the transmission resulting to overheating. Due to the high temperature, the transmission fluid becomes viscous and doesn’t perform its job of lubricating and cooling the transmission. This can reduce the life span of the other parts of the vehicle.

Installing an auxiliary cooler for your transmission can keep the fluid cool and at optimum temperature. These coolers reduce the temperature by between a third and half the time the fluid enters the cooler to when it goes back inside the transmission.

What kind of transmission cooler do you need?

The bigger the better. The larger the cooler, the better in lowering transmission fluid temperature. The plate coolers and the fin offer a large area to cool transmission fluid faster and better.

Aside from having a transmission cooler, a responsible vehicle owner should be able to do preventive maintenance for their vehicle. If you are experiencing signs of transmission slipping or any other transmission problems, don’t hesitate to get your vehicle and your transmission checked by some experts or your trusted mechanic.

How to Save Fuel

The price of petrol and diesel will continue to rise and because of that, we’ve compiled tips for to help you minimize your fuel consumption and save your back pocket.

1.       Avoid Idling

Idling your car for a long period of time and doing stuff like pulling off the road to make a phone call or waiting for someone while the engine is on can consume a lot of fuel. Stopping the engine whenever you stop or held for a period of time can save you.

2.       Eliminate Unnecessary Weight

Vehicles gets better mileage when they are not loaded with unnecessary weight. For some vehicle owners, they store items like golf clubs, sports equipment, luggage, etc. that accumulates weight. We suggest that you clear your vehicle with items that you don’t need for the trip.

3.       Check your tires

If your tire pressure is lower, the vehicle requires more fuel to move. We recommend that your car has the right tire pressure and alignment.

4.       Minimize or Turn Off your Air Conditioning

The air conditioning system of your car uses extra fuel when operating. It drains power from the engine, making the engine work harder, hence more fuel consumption. We recommend that you only use your air conditioner when needed. This can reduce fuel consumption about 5 to 20 percent depending on how the vehicle is driven.

5.       Observe the Speed Limit

Observing the speed limit on the road can save you fuel and even your life. Fuel consumption increases significantly over 90km/h. If your car is fitted with cruise control system, using it during driving in highways can help maintain speed which saves fuel.

6.       Preventive Maintenance

Proper maintenance of your vehicle gives you better fuel economy. For example, check on your wheel alignment, keep the filter clean, change your oil every 3000 to 5000 miles, change your transmission fluid, etc. Get your car checked and maintained as per the user manual of the vehicle recommended.

What is Transmission Flush?

Transmission maintenance is important for a vehicle to work properly. However, owners often neglect the given maintenance routine until serious problems occur. Signs like odd noises and gear shifting issues should be checked immediately by your local transmission shop.

Transmission flushing is a process where the transmission oil is removed through a machine to extract the dirt and sludge before adding new and clean transmission oil. The manufacturer’s recommendation (refer to manual) should be followed to the regularity with which transmission flushes should be performed. It is often performed every 50,000 kilometers but circumstances like towing, overloading, regular challenging terrain or constant stop/start travel needs regular transmission flushing to help extend the life of your transmission.

How does transmission flushing work?

Before the process of transmission flushing works, the technician will test the vehicle to identify other types of problems. They would also check the vehicle for external leaks.

Regulate machine are connected to the cooler lines and this will allow the fluids to flow into the machine. The line out from the machine is connected to the cooler allowing it to transfer the new fluid inside the transmission.

To complete the service, the technician will also remove the pan to inspect the old oil to look for signs and issues that may occur in the future. The old transmission oil and residue will tell you about the condition of your transmission. Transmissions can clog when the residue from the pan is sucked up into the filter. If this continue, the pump will eventual be starved for fluid. This leads to heat and friction build-up due to less lubrication.

Always refer to your manual to determine when to book in for transmission maintenance. Remember to look for qualified technicians that has the right tools and place to handle all your transmission maintenance need. 

What to know About Automatic Transmission

Vehicle problems occurs from time to time and that includes our automatic transmission. Whatever the cause, it creates real pain and causes vehicle owners a lot of stress. These problems are usually the result of poor maintenance and servicing and today, we’ll give you some pointers you can follow about automatic transmission problems.

Common Problems

When vehicles undergo heavy task like towing trailers, “stop and go” during traffic in hot weather, extended long haul drives, etc. the automatic transmission works on “Overdrive”. Overdrive causes heat which deteriorates our transmission overtime. During this process, the lubricant oxidizes, losing its beneficial qualities and leaving residues. If you check the transmission fluid in an overheated transmission, burnt smell and the transmission fluid will be dark and dirty.

Another factor would be flaws in design in transmission parts and lack of maintenance and servicing.

How can I prevent this?

Ignoring the transmission problems can lead into expensive repair or replacement, thus checking your transmission or taking it to an expert mechanic for maintenance can prevent this kind of damage. Remember to check your transmission fluid regularly. If it is low, there’s a chance that your vehicle is leaking the transmission fluid. This should be investigated properly and without delay to prevent overheating and serious damage.

In some vehicles, especially the new models, are very sensitive with the transmission fluid type. Always read the user manual or check with your trusty mechanic in what fluid should be used. Using an incorrect fluid can cause malfunctions and would lead into trouble.

If you are using your vehicle to tow and haul objects, additional transmission fluid is required and be sure to install an auxiliary transmission cooler to help your transmission fluid.

If you are experiencing signs and symptoms like leaky transmission, noises and problems with shifting, it is imperative to take your vehicle to an expert or mechanic to check on the problem.

Taking care of your transmission

Preventive maintenance is the key to a tip-top automatic transmission. Regular servicing should be applied such as changing the oil and filter every 12 months and transmission full flush every two years.

Always remember not to overheat your transmission fluid and this usually happens when your vehicle works too hard. Always consult an expert. 

Reasons Why Transmission Maintenance is Important

Maintenance is the key for your vehicle to run smoothly and without problems. But there are times vehicle owners ignore these problems especially in the transmission. Your vehicle will tell you that you’re transmission has a problem by giving you signs and symptoms such as loud noises, difficulty in shifting, etc. And if you are experiencing these problems, you might want to go or call your local mechanic or transmission expert.

Regular transmission maintenance has its benefits and today we’re going to tell you why transmission maintenance is important.

1.       Cost Saving

We all know that a well maintained vehicle last longer compared to a non-existent maintenance routine for a vehicle. For example, changing your transmission fluid at the right schedule can help prevent transmission problems in the future.

2.       Fuel Efficient

Maintenance helps with the fuel economy of your car. With scheduled change oil, transmission fluid replacement and flush, it can run your car better and smoother which means less consumption on the fuel.

3.       Preventing Lock-ups

Imagine a situation where your vehicle suddenly locked-up and stopped in the middle of nowhere, wouldn’t that be inconvenient. In some cases, transmission due to lack of fluids also overheats so the car simply shuts down. That’s what they call a “Lock-up” and to prevent this from happening, changing your transmission fluid would be the best choice. 

4.       Better performance

Changing your transmission fluid and having the right transmission fluid can help your engine run cleaner and faster, like the day you bought it new.

Always remember that if you can’t or doesn’t have the right kind of tools or knowledge, don’t even try to fix your car’s transmission. If you need some expert advice when it comes to transmission problems or services, don’t hesitate to call us or visit our website at www.nandvautomatics.com.au. We have extensive experience in terms of fixing automatic transmission and services.  

Car Maintenance Mistakes Owners Make

A good running vehicle requires preventive maintenance. While not all maintenance routine are scheduled at the same time, it requires owners to maintain their vehicle to ensure longevity. Signs of deterioration often shown by the vehicle and owners over look and ignore these signs. Eventually, your car will break down in the middle of nowhere and will cost you a lot more from repairs or even part replacement.

To avoid these kind of situation, we’ve compiled a list of owner mistakes when it comes to car or vehicle maintenance.

Ignoring the Engine Light

When the engine light in your dashboard suddenly turns on you might want to get the checked immediately. In some scenarios, owners tend to think that “it’s okay, the car seems to be running fine” but one day your car might breakdown. The longer you wait, the higher cost for repairs. So the best way to prevent that is to have it fixed immediately.

Neglecting Fluid Change

It’s a misconception that motor oil is the only fluid the car needs to be check and changed. But there are many fluids in the car that needs attention from time to time. Brake fluid, Transmission Fluid, Engine Coolant and power steering fluid should also be checked and serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendation. Doing this will help your vehicle in good condition.

Doing Repairs to your Vehicle without Proper Knowledge

Modern cars are more complicated that you think. For example, automatic transmission has their own chip that can only be programmed in computers, computers are also used to regulate the sensors inside your car (spark plug, fuel injectors, etc.). Since your vehicle your vehicle is computerized, avoiding repairs without the necessary knowledge or tools to do it is recommended.

Not Changing your Filters

Filter needs to be clean as possible to keep your vehicle working. Filters keeps out contaminants and dirt particles from entering your vehicle’s fuel, engine or air conditioning system. Dirty filters can bring issues ranging from poor mileage, making your engine seize or wearing out components. Have your filter changed as recommended by the vehicle’s manufacturer.

Skipping Oil Change

Advancements on car engine technology and motor oil continues to grow and it may no longer necessary to get a change oil every 3000 miles. The average of oil change interval is around 7000 depending on how you use your vehicle (ex. Towing). This is great news because it means less time and money spent on taking you vehicle for an oil change. However, this doesn’t mean that you can skip changing your motor oil. Without proper motor oil change, you engine will seize up and eventually die. Oil motor oil will break down which can lead into deposits of sludge inside your engine. Instead of lubricating and cooling the engine parts, the oil sludge damage the parts which is something you want to avoid. Getting a change oil can help your vehicle running perfectly. 

Why Hire a Transmission Specialist?

Keeping your car running requires some maintenance and do-it-yourself task from time to time. But sometimes, things get out of hand. Transmission problems are one of the many problems vehicle owners encounter, some call in a specialist to handle the job, some repair it themselves and some ignores the problem which is bad.

The best choice when transmission problem arise is calling a transmission specialist and today, we’ll give you the reasons why. Modern transmission are a combination of gears and electronic devices, so if you’re not careful, it might cost you a lot.

1.       Automatic Transmission Is Complicated

Working with transmission is hard and vehicles today are more complicated than you think. It takes more than touching and connecting wires due to the computer chip factor. Since automatic transmission system are computerized, it becomes more difficult to understand unless an Automatic Transmission Specialist will do the repair. These specialist are knowledgeable and did a lot of training and experience to become a certified transmission mechanic.

2.       They Have the Right Specialty Tools

Having your own transmission shop requires you to invest on these specialty tools to get the job done. For example, transmission spring compressors and linkage removal are some of the basic tools you’ll find in transmission shops but not at home. Doing repairs on your own will cost you more. Again, saving your car and money is more important than doing things the wrong way.

3.       Warranty

Transmission repair shops offers warranty after service and helps you avoid unnecessary cost in the future. Think about it, if you do the repairs yourself, you’ll be missing on warranty which should be your number one priority when it comes to repairs or even part replacement.

Remember: If your car is still under manufacturer’s warranty, make sure that you don’t do the repairs yourself or your will be voiding the warranty given to you by the car manufacturer. This could be a loss on your part and will cost you a lot of money. 

The Importance of Automatic Transmission Maintenance

When it comes to ensuring your car is always in good running condition, regular maintenance is important. However, a lot of people seem to overlook the importance of automatic transmission maintenance and repair, at least up until they have no choice but to have it fixed.

Regular automatic transmission flushing is part of vehicle maintenance. To enable you to better appreciate its importance, we have listed a number of benefits:

Cost Savings

Save the cost of  automatic transmission repair and parts replacement. Changing your transmission fluid at the right time can help prevent these transmission problems from developing.

A new transmission will cost you more money than  changing your automatic transmission fluid from time to time to prevent problems from occurring. Let’s be practical about it, transmission fluid will cost you much less than replacing the whole automatic transmission.  

Fuel Efficiency

Regular automatic transmission flushing can help your car run better for a very long time, which  means less work and less fuel consumption.

Preventing Lock Ups

Wouldn’t it be inconvenient if your vehicle suddenly locked up and stopped in the middle of nowhere or when you’re in a rush on your way to work? Lock ups occur when the vehicle’s transmission gets extremely hot,  so the car simply shuts down. Changing your automatic transmission fluid at the right time will prevent this from happening.

Better Performance

Changing your transmission fluid and having the right transmission fluid can help your engine run cleaner and faster, like the day you bought it new.

If you need some help with your automatic transmission maintenance, repair or replacement, we at N & V Automatics can help you. We are located in Seaford, Victoria and we are the local experts when it comes to transmission repairs and services.