Transmission Service
Transmission Service & Repair in Steger, New Lenox, and Schererville
Your vehicle’s transmission is responsible for taking the power from your engine and directing it to your wheels. The different gears within your transmission have various gear ratios, which allow your car to move at higher speeds, get better fuel efficiency, and access more usable power from your engine in different rev ranges.
Transmissions, automatic or manual, are extremely complex and require regular maintenance to perform at their best.
Some common issues transmissions can experience include:
Automatic, Manual, and CVT
- Automatic: uses hydraulic pressure, clutch packs, and a computer to shift gears for you; the most common type on the road
- Manual: you shift with a clutch pedal; clutch wear and gear oil condition are the main service items
- CVT (continuously variable): uses a belt or chain between variable pulleys instead of fixed gears; very sensitive to using the exact fluid specified
Each type has its own fluid and service needs, and using the wrong fluid can cause shifting problems or damage.
Transmission Fluid: The Most Overlooked Fluid in Your Car
Transmission fluid lubricates, cools, and (in automatics) transmits the hydraulic pressure that makes shifts happen. Heat is its enemy. Towing, stop-and-go traffic, and hot weather break it down faster. Healthy fluid is typically red or pink and smells clean; dark brown fluid or a burnt smell is a sign it’s overdue or the transmission is under stress.
Transmission Services We Offer
- Transmission fluid and filter service
- Leak diagnosis and seal or pan gasket replacement
- Computer diagnostics for shifting and solenoid faults
- Transmission cooler line repair
- Clutch replacement on manual transmissions
Catch It Early, Save the Most
Many transmission failures start with something small: a leak, overheated fluid, or a faulty sensor. Bringing your vehicle in at the first sign of trouble gives our ASE-certified technicians the best chance to fix it with a repair instead of a rebuild.
Transmission Service at Scott’s U-Save
With any transmission-related problem, you should have your vehicle inspected and diagnosed immediately. Letting problems linger can lead to expensive or even catastrophic failures down the line. Repairing a transmission at the beginning stages of a problem might seem pricey up front in some cases, but can save you from a full transmission rebuild or replacement down the line.
Call or schedule online with the transmission experts at Scott’s U-Save today! We have locations in Steger, New Lenox, Crown Point, IN and Schererville.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should transmission fluid be changed?
It varies by vehicle. Many manufacturers recommend service between 30,000 and 60,000 miles for severe driving, while some advertise much longer intervals. If you tow or drive in heavy traffic, more frequent service helps the transmission last.
Is a transmission flush bad for high-mileage vehicles?
It depends on the vehicle and the fluid’s condition. On some neglected high-mileage transmissions, a gentle drain-and-fill may be a better choice than a full flush. We’ll recommend the right method for your car.
Why is my transmission slipping?
Common causes include low or degraded fluid, worn clutch packs, faulty solenoids, or a computer problem. Slipping tends to get worse quickly, so have it checked right away.
What color should transmission fluid be?
Fresh automatic transmission fluid is usually bright red or pink. Darker or brown fluid, or a burnt smell, means it’s time for service or diagnosis.
Can I keep driving if my transmission is acting up?
It’s risky. Continuing to drive with harsh shifting, slipping, or warning lights can turn a smaller repair into a full rebuild. If you can, stop driving and call us.