At Fremont Foreign Auto, we understand how inconvenient and disruptive transmission problems can be for drivers in Newark, CA and surrounding cities we serve. When issues like gear slipping, trouble shifting, funny noises, or fluid leaks arise, your vehicle’s dependability takes a hit. Fortunately, our ASE certified technicians are transmission repair specialists with advanced diagnostic tools and years of hands-on expertise under the hood.
Whether you drive a modern crossover or classic sedan, our Fremont auto shop has seen virtually every transmission problem possible and can quickly pinpoint the cause and recommend repair or replacement options. From foreign vehicles to domestic makes, we handle tricky transmission jobs other shops avoid.
Read on for an overview of seven common transmission problems we frequently diagnose and fix to keep you safely and reliably on the road.
GRINDING GEARS AND SLIPPING
The most telling signs of transmission issues are grinding sounds and sensations while shifting and loss of power accelerating. This points to damaged internal components like gears and clutches struggling to engage. Prolonged slipping can destroy transmissions. Our shop thoroughly inspects the valve body, shafts, bands, fluids, and more to identify wear for prompt repairs. This keeps costs reasonable versus outright replacements.
DELAYED ENGAGEMENT
Over time, transmission fluid breaks down from heat and friction while valve body electronics fail. This causes delayed engagement when accelerating or switching gears. Poor alignments also prevent proper contact. Our techs often correct this issue by changing fluids, adjusting bands, replacing worn parts, and recalibrating electronics to restore quick shifting.
CLUNKS, WHINES, AND HUMS
Odd noises emanating from transmissions usually signal problems. High-pitched whines indicate pump failure or gear damage allowing air pockets and fluid to escape. Humming at high speeds can mean overheated bearings are wearing. Clunks signal improper gear meshing angles or broken gear teeth. Our techs thoroughly road test vehicles while listening closely to identify sounds then repair issues promptly.
BURNING SMELL AND OVERHEATING
Catching the distinct burning odor associated with overheating transmission fluid means internal components are severely damaged. This requires urgent action before the transmission fails completely. We thoroughly flush the old fluid, replace filters, install coolers, and repair leaks to restore proper temperatures and prevent further breakdowns.
LEAKS
Transmissions depend on specially formulated fluid to lubricate gears, bearings, shafts, and servo pistons to function. Spotting red oily fluid under your vehicle points to seal wear or ruptured lines allowing fluid to leak out leading to breakdowns. Our repair process involves pinpointing exact leak sources then replacing all worn gaskets, seals, lines, and fasteners to prevent further leakage.
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT
Modern transmissions and engines share smart sensors and computer networks alerting drivers to issues through “check engine” lights. Transmission codes provide insight for our testing procedures before we ever pick up tools. Whether it is speed sensor failures, signal interrupts, faulty solenoids, or computer glitches, our onboard diagnostics tools track down transmission-related warning light causes for accurate repairs.
HARSH SHIFTING
Transmissions firmly yet smoothly engage gears thanks to carefully calibrated electronic actuators, hydraulics, gears, shafts, and clutches. Faulty electronics throw off timing leading to delayed, firm gear changes causing cabins shake. Our technicians reflash transmission control modules restoring factory shift mapping. Sticking valves or tired transmission bands and clutches cause similar issues corrected at our shop.
Fremont Foreign Auto invests in advanced diagnostic gear, specialty tools, and training to restore safe transmission operation quickly at competitive rates for Newark area drivers and beyond. Our automatic and manual transmission work maintains factory specs for performance and longevity most shops cannot match. Contact us today to discuss any transmission problem small or large.
