Does Your Transmission Need to Be Replaced?

Transmission problems can be very frustrating. Transmission damage may make your vehicle tough to drive at certain speeds, or it may not shift into gear at all. The last thing you want is to completely break down on the side of the road. It’s always best to deal with transmission issues—and any automotive issues, for that matter—as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the worse the situation is likely to get.

One of the biggest questions we get at Ralph’s Transmission is if a customer’s transmission needs to be replaced. We offer a wide range of transmission services in our Modesto shop, from minor transmission maintenance to full transmission rebuilds and replacements. The extent of the internal damage is ultimately what determines which repair is recommended. The type of transmission system can also make a difference, as we will discuss later on in this article.

Transmission Maintenance & Minor Repairs

In many cases, you can catch a transmission problem early on. There may be a fluid leak or minor issues that can be dealt with through basic transmission repairs or standard maintenance services. We have many customers coming into our shop worried they may need to replace their transmission, when only a standard transmission service is required. A transmission service is basically like an oil change for your transmission. Bad/old transmission fluid is drained from the transmission pan. The transmission pan is then cleaned and the pan gasket is replaced. Then, it is filled with new transmission fluid. It’s a common automotive service that needs to be performed periodically to help keep your transmission system healthy.

Transmission Rebuilds

A full transmission replacement is generally the worst-case scenario for most automatic transmissions. More often than not, the more cost-effective and durable solution is to rebuild the existing transmission. As long as the housing is in good shape, any failing internal parts can be replaced. Good components can be professionally cleaned and reinstalled as the transmission is rebuilt piece-by-piece. You’ll be able to keep the same transmission. It will just be completely rebuilt and running like new again. This is why all transmission rebuilds we perform at Ralph’s Transmission are backed by such a strong warranty program (3 Year, 100,000 Mile Warranty).

Transmission Replacements

In some cases, the transmission damage is beyond repair and a rebuild just doesn’t solve the major problems at hand. This is when a transmission replacement may be the only solution. Your old transmission would be removed and then a brand new or refurbished used unit can be reinstalled and fit to your vehicle. There are many modern and complex CVT (continuously variable transmission) units that simply cannot be rebuilt cost-efficiently. A failing CVT transmission will generally have to be replaced with a new unit.

We hope you never have to deal with any major transmission repairs, but we’re here to help if you do. For all your Central Valley transmission care needs—including maintenance, repairs, rebuilds and replacements—call Ralph’s Transmission today at 209.526.1909 or book your appointment online to schedule a free transmission inspection.

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