Category Archives: Transmission 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.

Read on to learn about some of the problems people encounter with diesel engines.

Diesel Won’t Start Problems

• Air leaks – vacuum in fuel supply
• Blocked fuel supply – filters
• Cam – crank sensor
• Diesel injector/s bad
• Faulty pressure regulator – sensor
• Flat batter – low cranking speed
• Fuel contamination
• Glow plugs or relay fault in glow plug
• High pressure pump bad
• Internal engine problems
• Low compression
• Low fuel pressure
• Low pressure supply pump-faulty
• Not enough fuel supply

Hard To Start Diesel Engine Problems

• Air leaks – vacuum in fuel supply
• Bad pressure regulator – sensor
• Blocked fuel supply – filters
• Cam – crank sensor
• Diesel injector/s bad
• Flat batter – low cranking speed
• Fuel contamination
• Glow plugs or relay fault in glow plug
• High pressure pump bad
• Internal engine problems
• Low compression
• Low fuel pressure
• Low pressure supply pump bad
• Not enough fuel supply

Diesel Runs rough at lower RPM Problems

• Air leaks – vacuum in fuel supply
• Air intake restriction
• Bad pressure regulator – sensor
• Blocked fuel supply – filters
• Cam – crank sensor
• Diesel injector/s bad
• Fuel contamination
• High pressure pump bad
• Injector blow-by seat leaking
• Injector wiring harness bad
• Internal engine problems
• Low fuel pressure
• Low pressure supply pump bad
• Not enough fuel supply

Lack Of Diesel Engine Power Problems

• Air leaks – vacuum in fuel supply
• Air intake restriction
• Bad pressure regulator – sensor
• Blocked fuel supply – filters
• Diesel injector/s bad
• EGR problems
• Fuel contamination
• High pressure pump bad
• Injector blow-by seat leaking
• Internal engine problems
• Low fuel pressure
• Low pressure supply pump bad
• Not enough fuel supply
• Turbo problems – waste gate

Diesel Engine Knocking or Pinging Problems

• Blocked fuel supply – filters
• Cam – crank sensor
• Diesel injector/s bad
• Fuel contamination
• Injector blow-by seat leaking
• Injector wiring harness bad

Black Smoke From Exhaust Problems

• Air intake restriction
• Cam – crank sensor
• Diesel injector/s bad
• EGR problems
• High pressure pump bad
• Injector blow-by seat leaking
• Injector wiring harness bad
• Low fuel pressure
• Turbo problems – waste gate

White Smoke From Exhaust Problems

• Cam – crank sensor
• Diesel injector/s bad
• EGR problems
• Fuel contamination
• Glow plugs or relay fault in glow plug
• Injector wiring harness bad
• Low compression
• Low fuel pressure
• Turbo problems – waste gate

Blue Smoke From Exhaust Problems

• Internal engine problems
• Turbo problems – waste gate

Air Leaks In Vacuum Supply

Air leaks allow air to enter the fuel system through connections, fuel lines, fuel system and primary filter. Most leaks are spotted between the engine lift pump and filter inlet. When the diesel engine is running correctly it creates a vacuum to pull fuel through the engines filter. When the filter clogs the vacuum will increase. This will lead to engine shutting down if it doesn’t have a self bleeding system. Use a vacuum gage to perform a test.

Low Compression

Low compression in your diesel engine will prevent heat from being produced to ignite fuel and causes hard starting. This is usually a problem with high mileage or older diesel vehicles. To troubleshoot whether low compression is the problem or not, perform a cold engine compression test. Engine compression should be around 20-35 bars or 300-500 psi. If compression is below these numbers it will start causing problems.

Low Fuel Pressure

Low fuel pressure is usually created by poor fuel supply to pump/injectors/rail or the injectors/rail are not holding fuel correctly in the system. A great way to diagnose low fuel pressure is to begin with the tank and make sure that enough fuel is available to the pump. Also make sure the pump is still delivering fuel. Loosen supply pump from rail to pump. Check you fuel delivery.

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 2021. The average price of a clutch replacement ranges from $1,229 to $1,419, according to RepairPal.com.

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.

The radiator in your vehicle serves the purpose of keeping the engine cool during operation. If your radiator has a leak, though, this can be a major issue, causing you to lose coolant. This can then force your engine to overheat, resulting in long-term issues. Removing coolant from the engine transfers heat through coils into the engine. If there was not a leak, the cool air would flow back into the engine, preventing it from overheating. Read on to see if it is safe to drive if you have a radiator leak in your car.

Leaking Radiator

Coolants have typical colors of green, pink and sometimes orange. Pay attention to fluids under your car of these specific colors, as this could be a sign of a radiator leak. Additionally, there is a sweeter smell the coolant gives off, so you may be able to notice this as well. If you observe one of these two things, it is highly recommended you contact a local mechanic as soon as you possibly can. They will then inspect the vehicle to see if there are any coolant leaks.

If your coolant levels drop too low due to a radiator leak, there should be a low coolant signal on your dash alerting you of the problem. You may also see a temperature light starting to increase; this is a clear indication that you have a leak. Simply put, these two signals mean your car will most likely overheat very soon.

Vehicles that overheat constantly indicate that your car most likely is experiencing leakage. When realizing your vehicle is overheating, turn on the heater as high as possible to relieve some of the stress off the engine. In the instance that your gauge does not give or go down, you need to pull over immediately. Pop your hood and look at what is going on. Do not open the radiator cap, as this can be severely dangerous. Opening this has the possibility to spray hot liquid in your face. This does have the potential to be fatal. Give your local mechanic a call immediately to have an inspection done on the overheating issue within the vehicle.

Repairing A Radiator Leak

Vehicle radiator leaks can be easily repaired by mechanics, typically. This, of course, does depend on the seriousness of the leak. Coolant leaks can potentially cause extensive damages to the radiator resulting in a costly repair. Driving with coolant leaks is dangerous, and will likely cause engines to begin overheating. As mentioned previously, if you are operating the vehicle and notice signals of engine overheating, we ask that you please pull over and let your car cool itself down and call a mechanic. Radiator leaks can be serious issues if not dealt with correctly and it is highly advised to have the vehicle reviewed by a mechanic at your earliest convenience.

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.

Not unlike having a small child, a car requires careful handling, immediate action when there is ana issue and regular check up’s. But sometimes issues arise without prior warning. A good example is why will the car will not move in drive but will in reverse.

Transmission Issues

Especially in automatic transmission cars, the automatic transmission usually only gos in reverse when a component has been damged or failed. There may also be an issue with the speed sensor. Transmission is most likely to be the culprit for the car wont move in drive but will in reverse issue. When the vehicle does not function in one or more gears, you should check the gear shifter. The gear cable could be stretched further than the normal length and will need adjustment. When the car will reverse but not go forward because of worn out solenoids, clutches, or gears. Some issues are simple and you can fix them in your garage. But, professional attention is required when the problem lies with some inner parts.

Transmission Fluid

Low fluid levels is a possible reason for making the car moving to reverse only. Check the level when the engine is hot and when the can vehicle run in neutral. Use the transmission dipstick to see if the fluid is running low. The transmission cannot operate properly when it does not get enough supply of fluid.

Cracked Fluid Tube

A broken fluid tube may also be an issue. When the forward tube at the pipe joint cracks or breaks, the car cannot move forward except for going reverse. The repair is easy as you just need to replace the damaged parts.

Speed Sensor

Even a simple component like a speed sensor can mess up with the car’s transmission system. The sensor provides the ECU information about the vehicle’s speed that ultimately affects the shifting of the gears. If the information is erratic, the transmission may face the problem of working in reverse only.

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 2020. The average price of a clutch replacement ranges from $1,229 to $1,419, according to RepairPal.com.

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.