GEARBOX SERVICING

Why Failing to Properly Service Any Transmission Can Be A Costly Mistake.

The automatic transmission is easily one of the most complex mechanical components on a vehicle, and transmission repair is also very expensive. For that reason, you’ll want to be sure to perform an automatic transmission service, including gearbox servicing, as recommended by the manufacturer in order to keep your car running properly.

That being said, servicing transmissions might be one of the most overlooked preventative maintenance items due to the cost as well as the ambiguity of what actually defines “automatic transmission service.” But here’s everything you need to know about this very crucial service.

Servicing the automatic transmission should be part of routine scheduled maintenance, which varies depending on your specific vehicle. The average mileage suggested for this service is around 50,000 to 60,000 kms with some manufacturers recommending such service at 100,000-km intervals. 

The easiest way to tell whether you need to perform a transmission service on your vehicle is to remove the dipstick and check the condition of the transmission fluid. This fluid should be bright red, but if it is dark red or brownish, you should get the fluid changed. Physical symptoms could include a slipping transmission where the vehicle shutters in between gear shifts.

Almost everyone knows (or should know) the difference between automatic transmissions and manual transmissions. But did you know that modern vehicles have several different types of transmissions that act as automatic transmissions? While a large number of vehicles still use hydraulic or electric transmissions, a growing number use Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT) or Dual-Clutch Transmissions (DCT). These advanced transmissions help to maximize fuel efficiency or performance, but all need to be serviced to prevent regular wear and tear.