Category Archives: Transmission Replacement

Fluid is used to lubricate the internal clutches, gears, and bearings of an automatic transmission. It includes a torque converter in the form of a viscous coupling that transfers engine power to the gearbox input shaft via transmission fluid.

Fluid under pressure is also used to operate pistons in the valve body and engage clutches. Because all of this action generates heat, a transmission cooler is frequently included to maintain the fluid at the proper temperature.

Transmission Flush Costs on Average

A transmission flush might cost anything from $100 to $300. The cost is affected by the location of the job, as well as the amount of fluid required by the vehicle. Some vehicles have a transmission fluid capacity of up to 20 quarts, and if a vehicle-specific fluid is required, the transmission servicing cost can quickly rise to the top of the range. If a transmission filter needs to be replaced, it will be an extra cost.

Flushing of Transmissions

A standard service on any vehicle’s maintenance routine is changing the gearbox fluid. There are a few options for doing so. A transmission flush, which is performed by connecting a machine to the transmission cooler lines, is recommended by most well-equipped establishments (usually). Then, new fluid is pushed in while the old fluid is drained out, allowing for nearly complete fluid replacement. A drain and fill is an alternative, which entails removing a drain plug and draining old fluid before topping up the transmission with new fluid. The disadvantage is that only about half of the old fluid is removed, as most of it is trapped in the torque converter and elsewhere. It’s a good idea to replace the transmission filter if there is one, regardless of how the fluid is serviced. Dropping the transmission pan, which also requires a new gasket, accomplishes this. Nowadays, transmission cases without a pan or a changeable filter are more prevalent; instead, a drain plug is used. Some transmissions also have an external filter attached to a cooler line or to the transmission enclosure.

Recommendations from the manufacturer

For automatic transmission fluid, every manufacturer sets a minimum inspection interval. It usually happens every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. In regular service, most real service intervals are between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, while some manufacturers stipulate merely inspections and then service as needed. Transmission fluid wears at varying rates based on how a vehicle is driven, outdoor temperatures, load circumstances, and other factors, and a car that sees a lot of use may require service every 15,000 to 40,000 miles. CVT transmissions are also more demanding on the fluid and towing or hauling big loads causes additional wear. In general, transmission fluid that appears clean or only slightly discolored is fine. It should be replaced if it has darkened or thickened. It should also be replaced if it smells scorched. It’s also a good idea to err on the side of caution, as there’s no harm in replenishing fluid before it’s needed. Internal wear in the transmission, which is one of the more expensive and difficult to maintain sections of the car, is reduced by using cleaner fluid.

Drain and Fill vs. Flush

The majority of vehicle manufacturers recommend transmission fluid replacement but do not provide instructions on how to do it. When doing scheduled transmission services, however, most shops employ a flush machine to entirely replenish the fluid. For years, there have been some anecdotal warnings against cleaning the fluid out of a worn transmission. The flushing action, according to one idea, dislodges sludge and debris, which might later choke channels. Another theory is that old gritty transmission fluid increases clutch performance, and that removing the old fluid causes transmission slippage. Neither of these assertions can be verified. Flushing a gearbox moves fluid in the same way as flushing an oil pump does, so there should be no issues. If the gritty old transmission fluid is keeping the clutches operating, adding more grit would be a remedy to a slipping gearbox, which it isn’t. The alerts could be due to a number of factors. One is that transmission maintenance is usually overlooked until a transmission begins to show signs of failure. Flushing the fluid could be an option in this situation. That rarely helps worn or failed parts, but it can be a handy scapegoat after a service when the real issue is age or a lack of maintenance. Another issue with some flush machines is that the fluid pressure can be set too high, causing seals in the transmission to be damaged. This should never be an issue if the job is done properly. This is due to the ease with which the machine’s pressure can be set to be lower than the transmission’s usual operating pressures.

In any event, the main benefit of a transmission flush over a drain and fill is that more fluid is replaced. This is more of a problem if the fluid has been neglected, but it is less of a problem if it has been serviced on a regular basis. Even if the fluid is in horrible shape and a flush isn’t performed, leaving the majority of the old fluid in the transmission isn’t a good idea. If necessary, a drain and fill can be done twice in a row. The transmission is topped off and run through the gears for the first time after the first time. The fluid is then emptied once again. Doing it twice results in replacing 34% of the old fluid rather than half, which is a waste of both fluid and time. The only manufacturer that does not advocate flushing the gearbox fluid is Honda. This is mostly due to Honda’s proprietary fluid, which does not tolerate contamination well. To eliminate cross-contamination of fluids, a dedicated flush machine, such as Honda-only, would be required. Furthermore, keeping up with maintenance and performing drain and fill services as needed is often safer and easier in practice.

We offer a full range of auto transmission repair and replacement services from automatic transmission to manual transmission to the entire Phoenix Metro area.

*Disclaimer – This is not an actual quote. Your transmission repair or replacement cost could be different than the prices you see on this guide. The only way to get an actual estimate is by searching for transmission repair and replacement shops near you. Contact Automatic Transmission Exchange if you are in the Phoenix area and need transmission repair or replacement.

The average price to replace your clutch can cost anywhere around $1,324 in the United States for the year 2022. The average price of a clutch replacement ranges from $1,229 to $1,419.What’s the Average Price of A Clutch Replacement 2022

Clutch Replacement Labor Pricing Estimate

Pricing for labor comes in around $526 and $664. The pricing can vary depending on specific mechanical parts needed; costing anywhere from $703 to $755.

What Are Vehicle Clutches?

Typically, clutches are found in manual vehicles. In short, the clutch gives the engine power towards the central transmission, which enables the wheels to rotate.

How Do Vehicle Clutches Work?

When the car is in gear, there is a power distribution between the engine and the clutch that gets sent into the transmission. Releasing tension off the clutch ceases the clutch disc that causes the friction inside the vehicle. This is powered by a flywheel, and the clutch gets disconnected, allowing you to shift gears from your transmission.

Diagnosing Clutch Problems

A clutch that beings to fail will slip or start to shudder. In some cases it can be unusually difficult to press down on the pedals. Shifting gears can be much more difficult, as well. The engine of the vehicle can rev, but will not go any faster or remain immobile.

• Vehicle functionality will take a toll and slow down much more than usual. The engine begins to race, and the vehicle can be difficult to reverse or even shift into gears.
• Bangs and popping noises indicate some sort of problem. The clutch could be causing the noise.
• Pedals may be indicators of issues, as well. The pedals could possibly chatter, or vibrate to a certain degree.

 When Do I Need To Replace My Clutch?

Replacing your clutch ultimately depends on the vehicle and your personal driving style. Clutches can be worn down over time, much like brake pads, although clutches last a lot longer. They can still wear down, but some do last beyond 100,000 vehicle miles.

Is It Okay to Drive with Clutch Problems?

Not usually, no. In most instances, it’s almost impossible to maneuver with a worn out or broken clutch. Yes, your transmission shifts into gear, but having your worn-out clutch will make it difficult to maneuver the vehicle.

Our team of professionals is ready to help you replace your clutch at any time needed. Feel free to schedule an appointment online and we would be more than happy to help you out.

Transmission Service, Repair, & Replacement Services in Phoenix, AZ

We offer a full range of auto transmission repair and replacement services from automatic transmission to manual transmission to the entire Phoenix Metro area.

*Disclaimer – This is not an actual quote. Your transmission repair or replacement cost could be different than the prices you see on this guide. The only way to get an actual estimate is by searching for transmission repair and replacement shops near you. Contact Automatic Transmission Exchange if you are in the Phoenix area and need transmission repair or replacement.

Fluid is used to lubricate the internal clutches, gears, and bearings of an automatic transmission. It includes a torque converter in the form of a viscous coupling that transfers engine power to the gearbox input shaft via transmission fluid.

Fluid under pressure is also used to operate pistons in the valve body and engage clutches. Because all of this action generates heat, a transmission cooler is frequently included to maintain the fluid at the proper temperature.

Transmission Flush Costs on Average

A transmission flush might cost anything from $100 to $300. The cost is affected by the location of the job, as well as the amount of fluid required by the vehicle. Some vehicles have a transmission fluid capacity of up to 20 quarts, and if a vehicle-specific fluid is required, the transmission servicing cost can quickly rise to the top of the range. If a transmission filter needs to be replaced, it will be an extra cost.

Flushing of Transmissions

A standard service on any vehicle’s maintenance routine is changing the gearbox fluid. There are a few options for doing so. A transmission flush, which is performed by connecting a machine to the transmission cooler lines, is recommended by most well-equipped establishments (usually). Then, new fluid is pushed in while the old fluid is drained out, allowing for nearly complete fluid replacement. A drain and fill is an alternative, which entails removing a drain plug and draining old fluid before topping up the transmission with new fluid. The disadvantage is that only about half of the old fluid is removed, as most of it is trapped in the torque converter and elsewhere. It’s a good idea to replace the transmission filter if there is one, regardless of how the fluid is serviced. Dropping the transmission pan, which also requires a new gasket, accomplishes this. Nowadays, transmission cases without a pan or a changeable filter are more prevalent; instead, a drain plug is used. Some transmissions also have an external filter attached to a cooler line or to the transmission enclosure.

Recommendations from the manufacturer

For automatic transmission fluid, every manufacturer sets a minimum inspection interval. It usually happens every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. In regular service, most real service intervals are between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, while some manufacturers stipulate merely inspections and then service as needed. Transmission fluid wears at varying rates based on how a vehicle is driven, outdoor temperatures, load circumstances, and other factors, and a car that sees a lot of use may require service every 15,000 to 40,000 miles. CVT transmissions are also more demanding on the fluid and towing or hauling big loads causes additional wear. In general, transmission fluid that appears clean or only slightly discolored is fine. It should be replaced if it has darkened or thickened. It should also be replaced if it smells scorched. It’s also a good idea to err on the side of caution, as there’s no harm in replenishing fluid before it’s needed. Internal wear in the transmission, which is one of the more expensive and difficult to maintain sections of the car, is reduced by using cleaner fluid.

Drain and Fill vs. Flush

The majority of vehicle manufacturers recommend transmission fluid replacement but do not provide instructions on how to do it. When doing scheduled transmission services, however, most shops employ a flush machine to entirely replenish the fluid. For years, there have been some anecdotal warnings against cleaning the fluid out of a worn transmission. The flushing action, according to one idea, dislodges sludge and debris, which might later choke channels. Another theory is that old gritty transmission fluid increases clutch performance, and that removing the old fluid causes transmission slippage. Neither of these assertions can be verified. Flushing a gearbox moves fluid in the same way as flushing an oil pump does, so there should be no issues. If the gritty old transmission fluid is keeping the clutches operating, adding more grit would be a remedy to a slipping gearbox, which it isn’t. The alerts could be due to a number of factors. One is that transmission maintenance is usually overlooked until a transmission begins to show signs of failure. Flushing the fluid could be an option in this situation. That rarely helps worn or failed parts, but it can be a handy scapegoat after a service when the real issue is age or a lack of maintenance. Another issue with some flush machines is that the fluid pressure can be set too high, causing seals in the transmission to be damaged. This should never be an issue if the job is done properly. This is due to the ease with which the machine’s pressure can be set to be lower than the transmission’s usual operating pressures.

In any event, the main benefit of a transmission flush over a drain and fill is that more fluid is replaced. This is more of a problem if the fluid has been neglected, but it is less of a problem if it has been serviced on a regular basis. Even if the fluid is in horrible shape and a flush isn’t performed, leaving the majority of the old fluid in the transmission isn’t a good idea. If necessary, a drain and fill can be done twice in a row. The transmission is topped off and run through the gears for the first time after the first time. The fluid is then emptied once again. Doing it twice results in replacing 34% of the old fluid rather than half, which is a waste of both fluid and time. The only manufacturer that does not advocate flushing the gearbox fluid is Honda. This is mostly due to Honda’s proprietary fluid, which does not tolerate contamination well. To eliminate cross-contamination of fluids, a dedicated flush machine, such as Honda-only, would be required. Furthermore, keeping up with maintenance and performing drain and fill services as needed is often safer and easier in practice.

We offer a full range of auto transmission repair and replacement services from automatic transmission to manual transmission to the entire Phoenix Metro area.

*Disclaimer – This is not an actual quote. Your transmission repair or replacement cost could be different than the prices you see on this guide. The only way to get an actual estimate is by searching for transmission repair and replacement shops near you. Contact Automatic Transmission Exchange if you are in the Phoenix area and need transmission repair or replacement.

We can fix the most common automobile problems with our engine repair services. The most common engine problems include: Overheating vehicle, coolant loss, radiator leaking, transmission fluid leaks, transmission slipping, worn spark plugs, loose or missing gas caps, poor engine compression, faulty or broken oxygen sensors, dirty oil, oil leaks or any other engine problem that would turn your “Check Engine Light On”. We offer high quality auto repair to fix all of the most common vehicle problems for you. Read on to learn more.

We offer a full range of auto transmission repair and replacement services from automatic transmission to manual transmission to the entire Phoenix Metro area.

*Disclaimer – This is not an actual quote. Your transmission repair or replacement cost could be different than the prices you see on this guide. The only way to get an actual estimate is by searching for transmission repair and replacement shops near you. Contact Automatic Transmission Exchange if you are in the Phoenix area and need transmission repair or replacement.

Is synthetic oil superior to conventional oil? Should I think about converting from conventional oil to synthetic oil? What are the real differences between full-synthetic, synthetic blend and typical conventional oil? Keep reading to learn more.

Top 5 Synthetic Motor Oil FAQs

Is synthetic oil superior to conventional oil? Should I think about converting from conventional oil to synthetic oil? What are the real differences between full-synthetic, synthetic blend and typical conventional oil? Keep reading to learn more.

5. IS A SYNTHETIC OIL GOING TO BETTER FOR MY ENGINE THAN TYPICAL CONVENTIONAL OIL?

Indeed, synthetic oil is more favorable for your vehicle’s engine compared to conventional oil. Even though conventional oil for instance mineral oil) can offer sufficient lubrication performance, it can’t contend with the general engine performance and safeguarding offered by synthetic oils.

Synthetic oils use high quality based oils in comparison to the less refined based oils used in conventional oils making them:

• Less chemically balanced
• Oxidation and acidify easier
• faster in breaking down and lose protective attributes

Generally, full synthetic oils offer superior engine performance and protection used in conventional and synthetic-blend oils. Synthetic motor oils are specifically formulated with a tailor-made additive system that offers added performance advantages over and above those found in conventional and/or synthetic blended oils by:

• Hindering sludge and deposits build-up
• Decreasing wear
• Safeguarding against high temperatures
• Managing oil breakdown

So, all of that chemistry that begins in a lab really makes a huge difference on the road.

4. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SYNTHETIC OILS AS COMPARED TO CONVENTIONAL OILS?

Synthetic oils are produced using complex processes, including being chemically created from petrochemicals, to have the correct molecular qualities required for certain applications.

The process takes out impurities from the crude oil allowing individual molecules to be tailor made to the needs of today’s engines. These tailored molecules in synthetic oils offer higher degrees of performance and safeguarding than conventional oils.

How do synthetic oils surpass conventional oils?

• Provides greater engine wear safeguarding
• Maintains your engine’s cleanliness
• Flows easier in lower temperatures
• Safeguarding better at higher temperatures
• Safeguarding vital turbocharger parts

3. DO SYNTHETIC OILS HAVE LONGER OIL CHANGE PERIODS THAN CONVENTIONAL OILS?

Absolutely, typically, synthetic oils can offer longer oil change periods than conventional oils. But it is usually subject to the brand of oil and several other elements, like driving manner and driving conditions. Please abide by the suggestions in your owner’s manual when your vehicle is under warranty.

Many synthetic motor oil brands still suggest getting oil changes every three thousand or five thousand miles.

2. WHAT’S THE DISTINCTION BETWEEN A FULL SYNTHETIC OIL AND A SYNTHETIC BLEND?

Whereas there aren’t any solid oil industry definitions, full synthetic motor oils usually utilize the highest quality based oil mixtures as a beginning point. Synthetic blended motor oils are typically going to be either a blend of high-quality and low quality conventional based oils or all high quality (more high than conventional) based oils. However, the synthetic based oil is only part of the tale. The right mixture of additives needs to go into the mix for the creation of the oil.

The tailor-made additive system in full synthetic oils provides the added performance benefits far beyond those found in synthetic blended oils. And whereas full synthetics as a motor oil class offers superior protection than conventional and synthetic blended oils, not every synthetic is created equally.

1. MY VEHICLE DOES NOT REQUIRE SYNTHETIC MOTOR OIL. AM I ABLE TO CONVERT IT FROM CONVENTIONAL MOTOR OIL TO A FULL SYNTHETIC MOTOR OIL?

Converting from typically conventional motor oil to a full synthetic motor oil is absolutely acceptable. Many full synthetic motor oils are adaptable with conventional oils, oils for higher mileage vehicles, synthetic blend, and other full synthetic oil. Engine flushing is not a requirement.

For Higher Mileage Vehicle Engines

Nevertheless, when your vehicle has a higher mileage engine (for instance engines with more than 65,000 miles) that’s never used a synthetic motor oil, or an engine that has been badly maintained with sporadic oil changes, it is suggested easing into extended oil change periods to allow synthetic oil to clean the engine. In these situations, you should still adhere to the same primary oil change processes.

Adhere to your OEM’s suggested maintenance practices concerning oil changes, but you need to follow more frequent oil changes when first converting to a synthetic oil. The reasoning behind these curtailed oil change periods is that higher mileage engines, or ones that have had a shortage of maintenance (like sporadic oil changes), is going to probably have a significant buildup of engine sludge and/or deposits.

Synthetic oil is going to help clean your engine while you’re driving, but it is going to have to work a lot harder in a very “filthy” engine and so it is best to more frequently change the oil for the first several thousand miles. Following that that, you can be certain that synthetic oil is continuously keeping your engine running clean and well lubricated for each mile you drive.

We offer a full range of auto transmission repair and replacement services from automatic transmission to manual transmission to the entire Phoenix Metro area.

*Disclaimer – This is not an actual quote. Your transmission repair or replacement cost could be different than the prices you see on this guide. The only way to get an actual estimate is by searching for transmission repair and replacement shops near you. Contact Automatic Transmission Exchange if you are in the Phoenix area and need transmission repair or replacement.

Why Change Transmission Fluid

All vehicles use fluids to either clean or lubricate vital functions.  Over time the fluids unavoidably collect metal shavings and dirt.  If you’re lucky this debris settles at the bottom of the pan instead of circulating through the entire system.  For this reason, many auto repair shops choose to flush transmissions under pressure to remove as much of the metal shavings and dirt from your vehicle’s transmission.

Regular fluid changes extends the life of your vehicle.  Transmissions need to have the fluid changed every 30 months or 30,000 miles.  The exact interval or mileage will differ from vehicle to vehicle so ensure that you read your owner’s manual for information specific to your care, truck, SUV, or van.  If you check your transmission fluid and it has a burnt smell or dark appearance you should change it sooner.

Changing Transmission Fluid Yourself

While some motorists don’t mind changing their oil, those same people typically avoid changing their own transmission fluid.  This is because changing transmission fluid can cause a huge mess as you will need to remove the pan.  Even if your vehicle has a transmission pan drain plug, you’ll have to remove the pan to change the transmission fluid filter.  As fluid changes go, transmission fluid is one of the messiest.

Signs You Need To Change Transmission Fluid

Unless you’re a master technician you likely don’t know the symptoms of worn out transmission fluid.  If your automatic transmission has any of the following symptoms it may well be time to change your transmission fluid.

• Vehicle will not engage a gear in forward or reverse
• The transmission shift roughly from gear to gear
• Your transmission slips as you drive
• The transmission has unusual or louder noises

If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms you should consider changing your transmission fluid, or have your transmission fluid changed by an automotive service shop.

Transmission Fluid Change Steps

If you’ve got the space, tools, desire and want to spend the time to change your transmission fluid, you can do it yourself by following these steps.

STEP 1 – WARM UP YOUR VEHICLE

Your transmission fluid is designed to work at high temperatures and will change better if it is warmed up.  To do this just let your vehicle idle for a few minutes.  Once it’s warmed up shut it off, raise, and then secure your vehicle.

STEP 2 – PROTECT YOUR WORK SPACE

You likely are working in your garage or driveway and don’t want transmission fluid all over the place.  Lay down a tarp, newspaper, or cardboard under the vehicle.  Place a minimum of a 2 gallon catch pan to collect the transmission fluid as you drain it.

STEP 3 – UNBOLT TRANSMISSION PAN

Start by removing the bolts on one side of your transmission pan.  Be very careful not to burn yourself on the hot fluid or the high temperature sections of the exhaust system.   Next loosen the bolts which should start to lean the pan and start the fluid to drain.  After you have removed all of the bolts carefully lower the pan and drain the rest of the transmission fluid into the pan.  You may need to gently break the seal with a flathead screwdriver.

STEP 4 – CLEAN & INSPECT

This is a great chance to check your transmission for excessive wear by looking for signs of damage or metal shavings.  Once you’ve inspected the pan for shavings clean it with solvent.  You also will need to clean the gasket surfaces on the pan and housing of the transmission.

STEP 5 – REMOVE OLD FILTER

Next you’ll need to remove the old transmission filter.  It is likely filled with dirt, metal shavings, and debris from your transmission.  Chances are it will still be holding some transmission fluid, so your catch pan should be handy so you can dispose of it properly.  This is also a good chance to remove the old o-ring that goes around the perimeter of the pan and housing.

STEP 6 – INSTALL NEW GASKET

With the surfaces on the pan and the housing cleaned you should install your new transmission fluid gasket with oil soluble grease.  Avoid using adhesive or gasket sealer for this area of your vehicle.  An easy way to do this is carefully attach the gasket onto the pan so gravity holds it in place as you gently reattach the pan by loosely replacing the bolts.

It’s important to check your owner’s manual to see if you need thread sealer on some or all of the bolts for your transmission pan.  Finger tighten the bolts to hold the pan securely in place.

STEP 7 – TIGHTEN TRANSMISSION PAN BOLTS

Most vehicle manufacturers state the torque or pounds of pressure you should tighten your bolts to for most parts of your car, the transmission pan is no different. Not having enough pressure will cause it to leak, while too much could damage the bolts, housing, or pan.  Consult your owner’s manual to find out what that bolt torque should be. This should be done in a spiral pattern one bolt after another.  Double check all bolts after the pan is securely in place for correct torque.

STEP 8 – REPLACE TRANSMISSION FLUID

Finally the exciting step of putting new transmission fluid into your vehicle.  Start by lowering your vehicle back down and fill it to the recommended amount for your make and model.

STEP 9 – TEST YOUR VEHICLE

You’ll want to run your vehicle in your driveway to check for leaks before taking it for a spin.  Let it idle for a few minutes and then check for leaks.  If there aren’t any you can bring the vehicle up to operating temperature, shift through all of your gears, place it back into park, and then check for leaks.  It’s also a good idea to check the dipstick for your transmission fluid at this stage while the engine is just idling.

We offer a full range of auto transmission repair and replacement services from automatic transmission to manual transmission to the entire Phoenix Metro area.

*Disclaimer – This is not an actual quote. Your transmission repair or replacement cost could be different than the prices you see on this guide. The only way to get an actual estimate is by searching for transmission repair and replacement shops near you. Contact Automatic Transmission Exchange if you are in the Phoenix area and need transmission repair or replacement.