Most of us know the basic distinction between manual and automatic transmissions: with a manual, you manually shift gears whereas in an automatic it is done automatically. But the average understanding of the differences between manual and automatic transmissions usually stops there. Manuals and automatics not only have basic functionality differences, they additionally have distinctions in terms of repair, wear-and-tear, and necessary maintenance. Before having your transmission worked on, then, it is imperative that you ensure your auto mechanic has a deep knowledge of your particular transmission.
Shifting with a manual transmission has a number of advantages in terms of car performance and maintenance. At a basic level, manuals tend to have better fuel economy and lower maintenance costs. The clutch, one of the most important components to any transmission, has a propensity to be more easily maintained in manuals as is transmission fluid replacement. However, it can be extremely easy, especially for newcomers to manual transmissions, to make damaging mistakes that require immediate service and repair.
Automatics, on the other hand, have their particular advantages. Anyone who drives a manual transmission knows the horror of traffic buildup and the particular wear-and-tear that occurs both physically to the car and mentally to the driver. Yet, automatic transmission failure tends to be more calamitous and expensive than its manual counterpart. This is because automatic transmissions are particularly make and model specific.
As most of us know, then, it’s a balancing act between manual transmissions and automatic transmissions. Whatever your variety of transmission, however, it is extremely vital to have trust in your auto mechanic and transmission repair specialists.
Choosing the right transmission mechanic becomes even more important if you have an import car. Asian imports such as Honda, Acura, Toyota, Nissan, and Mitsubishi as well as European Imports such as Audi, BMW, Volkswagen, Porsche, SAAB, Mercedes, Lexus, and Volvo all have nuisances between themselves in addition to domestic autos. As an owner of an import car, you must make sure your transmission mechanic is well qualified in servicing your car, such Portland, OR area Portland Import Transmissions (www.portlandimporttransmissions.com), who have qualified specialists who know import transmissions in-and-out, with years of experience serving both manual and automatic transmissions.
With the right transmission service and repair specialist, you automatic and manual transmissions can last for thousands of miles and many years. Just make sure you trust your mechanic to do the job right and that they have years of experience with your make. Otherwise, a poor decision in transmission service could result in a poor decision on your wallet.
Now that summer is upon us, it’s probably certain that you will be wanting to take the car out for a short drive (or even a road trip!) on the long, warm weekends ahead. Proper preparation and checks on your vehicle’s transmission will go a long way to smoother running and reduced car repair costs in the future. Special care and consideration can help your Nissan, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Lexus, Infinity, Subaru, Scion or Mazda transmission continue running smoothly.
There are some important tips to consider regarding your import transmission, though, when preparing to head out on the open road. With summertime comes more heat. That means significantly more temperature inside the crankcase than during other months. Longer road trips will also increase the heat of your transmission due to longer running times and greater use of transmission fluid. You will want to check your vehicle owner’s manual to determine what type of transmission fluid to use, and when your particular import vehicle is due for servicing.
In order to find the right time to replace your transmission fluid, you will want to check for the cleanliness of the fluid you already have in the transmission. Fluid should be clean and run smoothly. Dirty fluid will fry your transmission and can lead to the premature death of your vehicle on the side of the road… which is not a good place for summer vacation!
It is also a good idea to have the transmission completely flushed. This is a far better alternative to just draining the old transmission fluid out of your vehicle as it completely rids the transmission of any microscopic metal or other pollutants in the system.
Finally, check for leaks in the transmission by looking at the underside of your car. If you can see red-colored fluids leaking out of the crankcase or other part of the engine, it might be time to take your vehicle in for servicing.
It is always a good idea to have your vehicle’s transmission serviced by reputable shops that are qualified to do so. One of the shops offering service and advice to Portland and Clackamas-area owners of Nissan, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Lexus, Infinity, Subaru, Scion and Mazda vehicles is Portland Import Transmissions
Towing season is almost here for many of you who plan on towing your camper, boat and other recreational vehicles. Transmission overheating is the major cause of transmission failure and towing greatly increases the temperature of your transmission. There are a few very important things you need to do to make sure your transmission is equipped to handle towing. If you do any type of towing you should start by taking your vehicle into a transmission specific repair facility to have an annual transmission service. Your transmission service includes replacing your transmission fluid, adding a transmission additive and changing the filter. Many vehicles that come from the factory with a towing package are already equipped to handle towing. However to make sure you have the proper equipment for towing you should ask your service provider if your vehicle has a transmission cooler or temperature gage already installed. Many vehicles will not have these important items and knowing if you have them is the first step in extending the life of your transmission. If your vehicle is not equipped with these items and you plan on towing, you should have your technician install a transmission cooler. If you are going to do heavier towing you should let your tech know and they can install a transmission cooler that is designed with a built in fan which assists in additional cooling of your transmission. Adding a temperature gage in the transmission itself or in dash will help you monitor the temperature. Most good transmission shops will add a transmission additive or a Lube Guard type of product. This will help protect your transmission from overheating by increasing the fluids ability to transfer heat, reducing foaming or oxidation and keeps valves free. Routine maintenance and getting the proper equipment installed in your transmission will extend the life of your transmission and give you peace of mind when towing. Is your car in need of transmission repair? Where do you start when you need to find an auto mechanic in Portland? The thought of going to a transmission shop may seem intimidating to a woman, but it shouldn’t be. Here are some tips and advice that will help make your auto mechanic experience a little smoother. First, start with finding an auto repair technician. Ask family, friends, neighbors and co-workers for recommendations on auto mechanics they have used. Trust me, they will enjoy giving you friendly advice. They might also share a bad experience and encourage you to steer clear of a repair shop! The internet is an excellent resource as well, as it gives you the option to search for specialities and read customer reviews. If you are looking for a Portland area transmission shop, consider an internet search such as, “Portland Transmission Shop” or “Portland Auto Mechanic.” Once you have found a shop, consider if the auto repair shop is established in the community. Also, does the shop have a good reputation in the community? Second, when you bring the car into the shop carefully observe the atmosphere, does it seem clean and organized? Are the technicians easy to understand and approachable? Does the shop specialize in import auto repair or domestic? After the technician inspects your car, you will get an estimate of the cost of the repairs. Make sure you understand each repair and why they are necessary. The repair shop should not continue with any repairs unless they have your authorization. If you have questions regarding the necessity of a repair, talk to someone you trust or get a second estimate from another established technician. With an estimate you have the ability to compare prices and learn more about the services. With a little bit of research, you will find a good auto repair shop and build a relationship of trust and confidence. Most importantly, you will eliminate your fears of dealing with auto repairs. Portland Import Transmission Repair Shop Serving Oregon Since 1955.Towing this year? Get your transmission ready to handle the weight
Why Women Shouldn’t Fear the Auto Mechanic