Some Commonly Asked Questions About a Car's Gearbox Repairs
Posted on: 19 July 2016
A car's gearbox and entire transmission system is very important, as of course you can't drive your car if you can't switch gears or if the car constantly slides from one gear to another. Ignoring needed repairs can mean allowing a problem to get worse so that the transmission may simply burn up completely and need complete replacing, whereas addressing these problems early on can mean more affordable repairs overall. Note some commonly asked questions about a car's gearbox repairs so you know what to discuss with your mechanic and what to expect with those repairs.
What is a transmission rebuild and when can it be a good choice?
A rebuilt transmission means taking the entire transmission system apart and finding the source of the trouble. The system will then be repaired, cleaned, and replaced in your car. This type of repair is good if there is simply one part of your transmission that is damaged, such as a chain or the fluid reservoir pan. By rebuilding the transmission rather than replacing it, you may save on the cost of a new transmission and may see that your current transmission lasts for many more years.
However, note that some parts in the transmission system are not meant to be replaced or to wear out before the expected lifespan of your car; these are called transmission hard parts. Replacing these parts may be as costly as a new transmission altogether. Your mechanic can advise if a transmission rebuild is an option for your car.
What is the difference between a transmission fluid change and a flush?
A transmission fluid change usually means just draining the old fluid and adding new fluid to your transmission. A flush means draining the old fluid and then cleaning out the transmission by changing its filter and removing the pan to clean debris. New fluid is then added. A flush may be more expensive but it can mean eliminating rust, dirt, grease, and other debris that can build up in the transmission system and cause early wear and tear.
Are sticky gears always going to mean a new transmission is needed?
Your gears could stick for a variety of reasons, some of which are relatively minor. For example, you car could simply be low on transmission fluid, although you should check to see if there is a leak in the system if it's consistently low. The transmission reservoir pan may need changing if it's rusted through in this case. The cable that connects the console to the brake pedal may also be failing; if it doesn't sense your foot on the brake, you cannot shift out of park. Smaller problems like these can often be affordable and simple to fix.
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