Solenoids are very important components within your vehicle’s automatic transmission system. They are electro-hydraulic valves that effectively control the flow of transmission fluid. They open and close with precise timing linked to the speed sensors in your engine. The solenoids and torque conv…Read More
It's one of the most common repair issues we deal with every day at Ralph's Transmission. Someone brings their car into our shop because their transmission is slipping between certain gears. It happens in all types of transmissions, including automatic, manual and modern CVT (continuously variable)…Read More
Most people know how to check their engine oil with the dipstick under the hood. However, not everybody realizes that there is a separate dipstick specifically to check your transmission fluid. You may have to look a little harder for it or consult your owner's manual. Once you locate it, though, it…Read More
Your transmission is one of your vehicle's most important systems. Without it, you will not be able to drive at all. Or, if it's something is just slightly off within your transmission, it can lead to major safety issues or other significant damage in your car that will be very expensive to repair. …Read More
The differential (or transaxle in the case of many front-wheel-drive vehicles) is a key part of your car that sends power from the engine and transmission to the individual wheels. Rather than both wheels turning at exactly the same rate, a differential allows for more precise control of the vehicl…Read More
A lot of people—including some professional general repair mechanics—do not realize that there are many different types of transmission fluid (also known as transmission oil) out there. You have different brands with different mixtures and additives designed for specific types of transmissions.…Read More
Like all automotive systems, your transmission needs standard maintenance services from time to time. How often you need a transmission service will depend on a variety of factors including the age of the vehicle, the type of vehicle and even your own driving habits. In other words, if you push yo…Read More
Just like your engine, your transmission needs to run at desired temperatures (usually somewhere between 175-200 degrees Fahrenheit when your vehicle is not towing something heavy). Therefore, it needs a cooling system that works similarly to your engine. As hot transmission fluid flows through th…Read More
Paul is a maintenance supervisor for New Bern Transport, which is a part of the PepsiCo brand and provides transportation and product delivery throughout the Central Valley area. They have many different work trucks that require regular maintenance and repairs, so he trusts the team at Ralph's T…Read More
If you drive a vehicle with a manual transmission, it will use a clutch system that allows you to manually shift gears. Automatic transmissions will use a torque converter to perform this task for you. However, it should be noted that some of the failing clutch symptoms below could also be signs …Read More
