Lodi Transmissions Blog

A properly-functioning transmission is essential for smooth gear shifts and overall performance. Neglecting transmission maintenance can lead to costly repairs or even a full replacement. Fortunately, with proper care, you can extend its lifespan and keep your car running more efficiently. Here are four tips for maintaining a healthy transmission. Check and Change Transmission Fluid Regularly Transmission fluid is crucial for lubricating moving parts and preventing overheating. Over time, fluid can become dirty or degrade, making it less effective. Checking your transmission fluid regularly and changing it at manufacturer-recommended intervals is vital to keeping your transmission in good condition. If the fluid looks dark or has a burnt smell, it’s a sign that it needs to be replaced. Keeping the fluid clean and at the proper level helps ensure smooth gear shifts and prevents unnecessary wear. Avoid Aggressive Driving Fast acceleration, sudden braking, and rapid gear changes put excessive strain on the transmission. Driving aggressively generates extra heat and friction, which can cause premature wear on transmission components. To extend the life of your transmission, drive smoothly by accelerating gradually and allowing your vehicle to shift gears naturally. If you drive a manual transmission, avoid riding the clutch and shift gears properly to minimize stress on the system. Avoid Towing Beyond Your Vehicle’s Capacity If you frequently tow heavy loads, be mindful of your vehicle’s towing capacity. Exceeding the recommended weight puts excessive strain on the transmission, potentially leading to overheating and premature wear. Following your manufacturer’s guidelines for towing will help keep your transmission functioning properly. Address Transmission Problems Early Ignoring small transmission issues can result in major and costly repairs. If you notice signs like slipping gears, delayed acceleration, rough shifting, or unusual noises, have your vehicle inspected by the mechanic immediately. Catching transmission problems early can prevent further damage and save you money in the long run. Regular inspections and prompt repairs will help keep your transmission in top shape for years to come. Transmission Service in Lodi, CA When you need transmission service in Lodi, CA and the surrounding area, contact Lodi Transmissions at  (209) 732-8819  . At our nearby transmission shop, we can expertly handle your car’s transmission repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Because transmission issues often escalate quickly, it’s always best to get to the shop at the first sign of a problem. This way, you can hopefully avoid more expensive repairs. At Lodi Transmissions, we provide expert transmission repair in the greater Lodi, CA area. Here’s a look at four common symptoms of transmission trouble. Unusual Grinding or Shifting Noises One of the first things you might notice when there’s a transmission problem is a strange noise when the vehicle shifts gears. This could include grinding, whining, or clunking noises. Grinding commonly happens when the gears are not engaging correctly, which may indicate low transmission fluid or a more serious mechanical issue. If your car makes these noises during gear shifts, it’s a sign that the transmission needs attention. Slipping Gears If your vehicle unexpectedly shifts gears or "slips" out of gear, it’s a clear indication that something is wrong with the transmission. Slipping gears might cause the engine to rev higher than usual or feel like your car is losing power. This problem is often due to low transmission fluid. If your car repeatedly slips out of gear, it’s time to have it inspected by the mechanic. Delayed or Rough Shifting Delayed or rough shifting happens when there’s a noticeable delay or harshness when shifting from one gear to another. This can be felt as a jolt often while accelerating or decelerating. It may be accompanied by shaking or difficulty moving the vehicle smoothly through gears. This symptom could be a sign of low transmission fluid or other internal transmission problems. Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is essential for smooth operation, and if your vehicle is leaking transmission fluid, it can cause severe damage to the system. You can spot a leak by looking for reddish fluid spots under your car. If you notice a transmission fluid leak, it’s important to get it addressed immediately. Driving with low transmission fluid can cause overheating and further damage to your transmission. Transmission Repair in Lodi, CA When you need transmission repair in Lodi, CA and the surrounding area, contact Lodi Transmissions at  (209) 732-8819  . At our local transmission shop, we can expertly handle your car’s transmission repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!