You might not often stop to think about it, but your vehicle’s transmission works very hard to help you reliably commute to work and back each day. When signs of transmission trouble arise, it’s very important that you visit the shop for an inspection. This is because transmission problems often worsen quickly and then require increasingly expensive repairs. At SM Transmissions, we provide expert transmission service in the greater Irving, TX area. Here’s a look at some of the FAQ about automotive transmissions.

What does the transmission do?

In short, automotive transmissions are intricate mechanisms composed of numerous parts that work in concert to transfer power from your engine to your drive wheels. In a manual transmission, you shift the car in accordance with your patterns of acceleration. In modern automatic transmissions, the car handles the shifting via computer control. Important transmission parts include gears, transmission fluid, and torque converters. 

What are indications of a transmission problem?

Common symptoms of transmission trouble include grinding, delayed shifting, gear slippage, and transmission fluid leaks. Transmission fluid provides lubrication, fluid pressure, cooling, and rust prevention, making it very important that any leaks are addressed ASAP. You may have a transmission fluid leak if there’s reddish-colored fluid on the ground where you’ve been parked.

Why is transmission fluid red?

When transmission fluid is fresh, it is bright red, which makes it rather easy for you to tell if the fluid is in good shape. But when fluid starts to darken/burn, you’ll want to bring it to the mechanic’s attention as soon as possible.

When is transmission fluid supposed to be exchanged?

Transmission fluid often needs to be exchanged at a point between 30,000 and 60,000 miles, but you’ll want to refer to your owner’s manual to see exactly how often your vehicle requires this service. To keep your transmission in peak health, it’s very important that you’re driving with the proper level of unpolluted fluid.

Where can I get top-quality transmission repair in Irving?

When you need transmission service in Irving and the surrounding area, contact SM Transmissions at (469) 908-3690. At our nearby transmission shop, we can expertly address any of your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!