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Does Your Clutch Need Repair or Replacing?

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Clutch failure. Even if you aren’t quite sure what it means, it sounds bad. 

Like other parts of your vehicle, the clutch is only designed to last for so long before it starts to wear down. Both manual and automatic transmissions have clutches designed to engage the transmission and harness the power to move the wheels throughout a full cycle. As you move out of park and start moving, the clutch engages. As you come to a stop, the clutch engages. 

Manual transmission vehicles create movement between gears manually using a clutch pedal. An automatic transmission creates this movement automatically. In both cases, there is constant movement and friction as the gears move into place. Over time, enough wear will occur to wear down the clutch, requiring repair or replacement to ensure your safety. 

How do you know which it is? Is it time to repair or replace the clutch in your car? Read on to find out how you’ll recognize the symptoms. 

What is a clutch? Why does my car need a clutch?

Before you can diagnose clutch problems, learning more about its function can help you recognize potential problems early. 

A clutch is a mechanical device that engages and disengages the transmission between several rotating shafts. A clutch is a connection point between two shafts, allowing them to lock and spin together, or disengage to operate separately. 

In most vehicles, the clutch sits between the engine and the main driveshaft. It takes power from the engine and transfers it to the wheels. While an engine spins and creates power continuously, your wheels don’t. To gain control over the wheels without turning off the engine, you need a way to operate the two separately. This happens between the clutch disc and the engine’s flywheel, giving you full access to control power and speed in any condition. 

Does Your Clutch Need Repair or Replacing?

A traditional clutch will contain a variety of parts, including:

  • Clutch disc – the connection point to the transmission
  • Cable – connects the clutch pedal to the clutch fork
  • Clutch fork – controls the force between the clutch and the pressure plate
  • Pressure plate – connects to the clutch disc
  • Flywheel – connects to the engine

Each piece is connected via links, cables, and other bearings to ensure it maneuvers correctly. If any one of these parts starts to fail, you’ll notice it in the way your car performs. A few things that can go wrong include:

A slipping clutch

A clutch can have anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles before it needs repair or replacement. As the clutch wears down, the material begins to wear out, and it won’t perform as it did when it was new. A clutch needs friction to engage. Without the proper friction, the clutch won’t work as well as it should. That means you may feel the clutch slip as you accelerate, and the clutch moves between gears. It’ll feel like your vehicle is dragging, even though the engine may be revving up. 

A slipping clutch can be caused by a variety of problems, including:

  • A cable that needs adjusting
  • A clutch linkage is bent or damaged
  • The pressure plate is weak or warped
  • The clutch assembly is dirty from oil or grease leaks
  • A broken motor mount

As it slips between gears, it may also become sensitive to movement, or even get stuck. For a manual transmission, you may notice this if you press down on the clutch pedal and it slips out of gear immediately, or you have to push it all the way to the floor without movement. Clutches can stick for various reasons, including:

  • A broken or stretched clutch cable
  • Leaky or defective clutch master cylinder
  • Air in the hydraulic line
  • Clutch components out of sync
  • Linkage out of adjustment 

A clutch master cylinder failure

Clutch failure can originate in the clutch master cylinder for a variety of reasons. With each potential problem, it creates signs that something is wrong. You’ll notice a problem in different ways. 

Noises – when parts aren’t properly synced and working well, the friction between the parts will create a variety of sounds. With a manual transmission, you might hear a noise as you press the clutch pedal to the floor, even if the engine is turned off. That’s an indicator of a clutch fork problem. As lubricant dries up, it can cause a noise as it tries to engage. 

Vibrations – as you press down on the pedal, you may feel a vibrating sensation from time to time. Vibration can be caused by a variety of things, but usually starts as things wear down. Friction no longer occurs between separate parts, meaning they rub against each other incorrectly. This appears as a vibration as they try to engage. 

Spongy or loose feel – this is often caused by a hydraulic problem. There may be air in the hydraulic system, low fluid in the reservoir, or a leaking connection, hose, or pipe somewhere in the system. 

Grinding while shifting gears – there should always be free-flow as your car moves from gear to gear. When you start feeling or hearing the process, it’s a sign of a worn down part. Any one of the parts that make up the clutch system isn’t moving correctly at the right speed. Instead of moving into position, it sticks or drops quickly. You’ll hear it as parts don’t connect as intended. It may require an adjustment, or a full replacement. 

What can it be? An inspection will get to the root cause

 Each symptom is a signal it’s time to bring your car in for an inspection. It’s the easiest way to get to the root of the problem, and fix it before it escalates into something else. In some cases, it might be a simple repair. It’s better to know for sure before it escalates, causing more damage, and potentially putting you at risk. 

Does Your Car Really Need a Transmission Flush?

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Some vehicle maintenance items become so routine, you rarely think about them. You fill up with gas, pull in for oil changes, and replace your tires when the tread wears down. 

But internal items are trickier to understand. How do you know if your transmission isn’t operating well? Would a transmission flush work, or is the problem deeper?

A quick search online will tell you controversy surrounds transmission flushes. Some reports say it’s a myth to need to flush the system at all. Other resources tell you it’s a must to keep your car in good working condition. Who do you believe? 

A quick search by brand tells you it’s mixed between manufacturers. Toyota recommends automatics flush the system every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, while manual vehicles need care every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Mercedes has a wider range of recommendations, depending on the year, make, and model. You’ll find advice for transmission flushing between 40,000 and 100,000 miles. 

Understanding automatic transmission fluid

According to a CarMax study, Americans love automatic transmissions, with 96 percent of the population driving automatic vehicles. Maybe it’s our multitasking strategies that make automatic transmissions more convenient. 

Automatic transmissions use a hydraulic system that relies on a constant flow of transmission fluid to provide the correct supply of hydraulic pressure for ultimate response. It’s the transmission fluid’s job to provide proper flow through each hydraulic line within the transmission system. 

Does Your Car Really Need a Transmission Flush?

Transmission fluid is designed with a specific viscosity and additives that help reduce expansion as the fluid heats under pressure. If operating well, it will remain consistent over time. 

Over the years, the additives will wear down, which can cause the fluid to thin and be more susceptible to the expansion process. This is when it’s time to replace the transmission fluid to ensure your car continues to operate well. 

Why a transmission flush is necessary

Today’s vehicles use a variety of fluids to continue to operate well:

  • Windshield washer fluid – to ensure your safety while driving on dirty roads
  • Motor oil – to keep the engine healthy and running smoothly
  • Coolant – also known as antifreeze, helps to keep the engine cool
  • Brake fluid – keeps the brake system fully operational

Each of these fluids is important to ensure your vehicle continues to operate, and you won’t be stranded while out on the road. 

Some fluids drain out of the system and simply need to be refilled to continue working. Windshield washer fluid provides the necessary spray to keep your windshield clean in all driving conditions. If it runs out, you simply fill up the reservoir and it’s available once again. 

Transmission fluid works slightly differently. 

With an automatic transmission, the fluid continues to circulate throughout the fuel lines. As it wears down, small particles travel with the fluid, and can stick or corrode the inside of the lines. Even if you were to drain the lines, those tiny particles could still be a problem. The only way to thoroughly remove those particles is with a flush to the system. 

If those particles continue to build, they can wear down the various parts of the transmission system. Here are four reasons why it’s important to perform a transmission flush according to manufacturer’s guidelines:

It increases transmission lifespan

Clogs in the hydraulic fuel lines can lead to all kinds of problems. As particles and contaminants build up, they can lead to inner seal leaks and breaks. It can force liquid into areas where it shouldn’t be. And while you might not notice the results immediately, they can have a trickle down effect. Flushing the transmission occasionally and replacing minor parts is a lot more friendly on the wallet than replacing a transmission after complete failure. A transmission flush can extend the life of your vehicle by ensuring the entire system is once again operating properly. 

It makes shifting easier

It’s the transmission’s job to ensure smooth shifting as you speed up and slow down. Over time, particles and contaminants can cause gears to slip or stick, impacting the effectiveness of your driving. A transmission flush gets rid of those imperfections and ensures a smoother shift. 

It improves fuels economy

How well the transmission operates is what ultimately controls fuel efficiency. If the flow of gasoline is inhibited in any way, it takes more energy to produce the same results. A vehicle in good working condition ensures the best fuel efficiency possible. If the transmission slips or doesn’t engage properly, it requires more fuel inside the engine. A transmission flush brings the entire system back to good working condition, helping your car be as efficient as possible. 

It protects your car’s warranty

Do you have an extended warranty on your vehicle? More manufacturers are offering years of coverage on well cared for parts. The key is ensuring each system is well cared for, and that you meet their key requirements. Do you know what your owner’s manual says about transmission flushes? If not, it’s time to read up and learn what your vehicle needs to thrive and stay within the acceptable guidelines. Be sure to track it in case you need to fall back on the warranty at any point you own the vehicle. 

Is it time for a transmission flush?

A lot of what we’ve referred to in this article concerns automatic transmissions. Manual transmissions work differently, and require different levels of maintenance. The best way to ensure you’re giving your vehicle what it needs to operate well is to refer to your owner’s manual regularly, and use the advice to set up your own maintenance routine. 

https://denverexpresscare.com/transmissions-need-repair-too

We’re also a great resource to have on your team. With our diagnostic tools, we can evaluate your vehicle periodically, and assess what maintenance items need to be scheduled. Every vehicle is different, depending on the way the car is driven. 

By being proactive, you can stay ahead of potential repair problems. Fixing issues before they escalate is the best way to keep your repair bills low. 

Does your vehicle need a transmission flush? 

Early Warning Signs of Transmission Failure

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The transmission is one of the most important components of today’s vehicles. Without it, there would be no way to transfer power from the engine to the wheels. 

Like other parts of a vehicle, when something goes wrong, your car won’t operate as it should. In some cases, it can stop you in your tracks. 

Luckily, there are early warning signs of transmission failure. Catch it early and it will be an easy repair. Put off the repair, and you risk expensive repairs or complete failure. 

How a transmission works

A transmission ensures that power moves from the engine to the wheels. 

There are a variety of car transmissions available, some are automatic while others are manual. While it once was common to control the transmission by using a stick-shift inside the car, more cars today operate with an automatic. Select which gear you want, and the transition occurs automatically for you. 

A transmission enables the gear ratio between the drive wheel and the engine to adjust and help the car speed up or slow down. When the car comes to a complete stop, the transmission disconnects the engine from the drive wheels so that the engine can idle without powering the wheels. Depending on which gear you’re in determines the direction: park, forward, or reverse. 

For a manual transmission, a clutch pedal and a shifter are used to change gears. The driver has to select the proper gears by engaging or disengaging the clutch. Automatic transmissions power this process to occur automatically within the transmission. 

What are the early warning signs of transmission failure?

While a vehicle’s transmission is designed to operate smoothly throughout the process, as parts wear out, you’ll start to notice small changes in the way the system handles. 

Early Warning Signs of Transmission Failure

Noises

When you first buy your car, spend some time getting used to the way it performs. It’s important to engage all your senses through this process, including what you hear, what you smell, and what you see. 

Often, noises are your first warning sign. Depending on the problem, you’ll start to hear things that weren’t there before. A click. A scrape. A squeak. It also can change depending on the function – moving into reverse may provide a different noise than picking up speed. 

A transmission consists of multiple components, of which any of them can fail and cause a disruption in the system. Transmission problems are most likely associated with a clunking, buzzing, or whining sound due to the nature of the parts. 

Burning smell

In order for the transmission to operate properly, it has transmission fluid that keeps it lubricated and in motion. Fresh transmission fluid has a sweet or tart smell. But if it overheats, leaks, and runs low, it takes on an entirely different smell. 

If you notice a burning smell as you operate your vehicle, it could be low transmission fluid. Something within the system is burning too hot, which increases the friction, and leads to corrosive activity inside the engine. 

The moment you notice this smell, schedule an appointment right away. 

Refusal to switch gears

With a manual transmission, this is easily noticed when you press down on the clutch, and the shifter won’t budge. You push, and yet it simply won’t allow you to move between gears. 

An automatic might be a little less noticeable, but listen closely. You’ll hear it as you drive. You might also notice it as you try to move from park to drive. 

The key is not to force the gears into place. This can come from a variety of problems, including electronics that have gone bad to low or dirty transmission fluid. Rather than take a chance on further damaging parts, it’s best to let a mechanic look at it and determine where the problem lies. 

Slipping gears

Like refusal to switch gears, slipping gears can cause scary situations. Imagine being on the highway, and your transmission suddenly alters what gear you’re in. It can lead to dangerous situations. 

Over time, gears simply wear out. Slipping gears often stems from normal wear and tear, which causes them to no longer engage properly, and slip in and out of sync. 

Jerking, grinding, or shaking sensation

When gears don’t operate as designed, you’ll notice it in the way your vehicle performs. 

You’ll hear the gears grind on a manual transmission as you try to change gears. 

You’ll experience hesitation with an automatic as it attempts to engage, yet fails. 

You may feel your vehicle jerk or shake as you speed up and slow down, depending on how the gears connect. 

Once you notice this, pay attention to the sensation. Then share it with your mechanic, who will better understand where to start the evaluation process for your vehicle. 

Leaking fluid

Pay attention to what occurs underneath your vehicle. Leaking transmission fluid is quite recognizable. 

When your transmission fluid is fresh and new, it has a relatively clear pink color. As your transmission fluid ages, becomes dirty with contaminants, it changes to a deep red or brown. A dark brown color signifies it’s been overheated. 

Transmission fluid is what lubricates the gears and keeps the components working well, and stops them from overheating. It also acts as a hydraulic fluid for creating gear engagement. A leak lessens the amount of fluid in the system and will cause overheating, and eventually, a total breakdown. 

Check engine light

Dashboard lights are a modern day convenience to give you plenty of warning when something is wrong. It’s the best and earliest indicator that your engine isn’t operating the way it should. 

Every system in your car has triggers and sensors that are tripped when your vehicle isn’t operating the way it should. If a problem is detected, the sensor is notified, and a light goes off on your dashboard. 

Pay attention to any and all of these warning signs. They are your best indicator for a potential problem. 

Catching it early can help ensure your safety, as well as prevent future problems with other systems in your car. Catch it early enough and you can also pay less in repair bills – replacing transmission fluid is much less expensive than replacing the entire transmission. 

How can we help you keep your vehicle working as it should? 

Transmissions Need Repair Too

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When a car is new, everything works perfectly. You start the car, and the sound can be magical. It purrs as you put the car in gear and head off down the highway. 

Over time, starting the car becomes an automatic process. Get in. Turn the key. Think about your day ahead. Ignore the little changes going on underneath the hood. 

And that works well … for a while. 

Eventually, you can no longer ignore the noise. Something’s wrong. 

The question then becomes: What are you going to do about it?

Today’s modern combustion engine is a complex array of components. One of the most critical parts is the transmission. 

In short, a transmission is a vehicle’s gearbox. It’s what allows the car to move through the various gears as you drive. Without it, you could never move away from a stop sign, accelerate on the highway, or climb the hill near your home. 

The typical car transmission has between five and six gear sets and trains (the belts and chains that connect the gears together.) The transmission’s job is to ensure that your engine runs at the proper rate without moving too fast or too slow for the road conditions. It ensures the right amount of power moves from the engine down into your wheels, so your vehicle can move safely down the road as you move through your days. 

Today’s vehicles have two types of transmissions: manual and automatic. Manual transmissions are fading from most car lines as automatics are more precise in their movement, and have a lower error rate. By having an automatic transmission, a driver can focus on the act of driving, rather than worrying about when is the right time to change gears. 

Regardless of whether your vehicle is manual or automatic, the transmission works in the same way. As the driver accelerates, a gear lever moves from one gear to another as the road conditions require. While manual transmissions require the driver to push and hold a clutch control while moving the gear shift, an automatic transmission does it automatically. When engaged, a clutch maneuvers the clutch plates into place to connect with larger gears. As the gear lever moves, different gears shift and connect, which in turn controls the amount of power delivered to the engine and wheels. 

There’s a lot of power behind this movement. Over time, these connections can start to fail, putting you and your vehicle at risk. 

Transmissions Need Repair Too

Luckily, total transmission failure doesn’t happen without warning signals. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to bring your car in for maintenance to stop the problem before it worsens. 

Odor

As you drive along, you can take in a variety of smells. If you pass a restaurant, it might remind you it’s time for dinner. But if you notice a strong odor that doesn’t dissipate as you drive, it might be time for a visit with one of our mechanics. If the smell seems to be coming from the engine compartment, if it has a strong burning smell, it’s a sure sign there’s a problem with one or more of the parts. 

As transmission fluid runs low or degrades, it overheats and can create a burning smell. This allows your engine to run hot, which can allow other engine components to wear down as well. Burning smells are never good for your vehicle; have them checked out, especially if they continue over time. 

Sounds

Remember that purr from when you first bought your vehicle? If you pay attention to the sounds your car makes over time, you can easily notice problems by the different sounds it makes. 

Clunking, humming, whining, rattling, or grinding is never good for your vehicle. Your first step is to determine where the noise is coming from, and when you most often hear it. A clunking noise when your car changes gear is a telltale sign that your transmission is experiencing problems. 

Check engine light

Today’s vehicles are a complex array of technological parts, all coming together to create the modern day car. If any one component isn’t operating correctly, it can have adverse effects on other parts. 

Most cars today have a variety of dashboard lights designed to signal when something is wrong. These lights illuminate the moment the ratios fall beyond manufacturer’s suggested guidelines. They light up in plenty of time for you to bring your vehicle in and get it inspected. Don’t ignore the little light on your dashboard. If you pay attention and take action quickly, you’ll save money on larger, more detailed repairs. 

Leaks

There are several main fluids in your vehicle, each designed to lubricate, cool, and help you maintain your car. 

If any of these fluids break down or leak, they can alter the way your vehicle operates. 

A transmission fluid leak is easy to spot because it shows up as a red color with a sweet smell. It can darken over time if it’s compromised and has dirt particles in it. It can also take on a burnt smell when it has broken down. 

Shaking

An automatic transmission should provide you with a smooth ride. Have you started to notice your car shaking as it changes gear? It’s a sign one or more of your gears may be wearing down, or one of the chains or belts needs replacing. 

Don’t ignore the shaking. It will only get worse over time. 

Won’t move into gear

Sometimes your car gets stuck in one gear and refuses to move to another. This is often a fluid issue. 

When transmission fluid is clean and topped off, the gears move freely as you drive. But as the fluid becomes compromised, it might affect the way the gears move. It might also be a problem with the computer system, not instructing your vehicle to move properly. 

Slipping gears

Instead of having a vehicle that won’t change gears, you might notice the gears occasionally slip between gears without any instruction from you. This is dangerous for your car and can put you in a dangerous situation. This can be caused from a variety of things, including a worn transmission, or low fluid levels. 

Are you experiencing any of these transmission symptoms? 

If your vehicle is experiencing any of these transmission symptoms, it’s time to bring your car in for repair. Don’t ignore unusual smells, noises, or a car that doesn’t drive as usual. It’s a sign your car has a problem, and the sooner you fix it, the quicker you’ll be back on the road without worry. Small problems can escalate into expensive repair bills if not acted on quickly. 

Is a Manual Transmission Easier To Maintain Than an Automatic?

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Once upon a time, every car on the road operated with a manual transmission.

A manual transmission, or a standard transmission is a multi-speed vehicle where it requires the driver to manually perform the gear changes by operating a gear stick and a clutch.

Where manual transmissions were once the norm, as automation came into the industry, automation made the entire process easier for the driver. In 2020, only 41 out of the 327 – 13 percent – new car models sold in the US were manual transmission. Compare that to 2011 when 37 percent came with manual transmissions.

Manual transmission requires skill of the driver to create an effective driving environment. While diehards love the experience of being in control, many drivers, especially in urban areas, appreciate automation and not having to be as aware of the process as they are moving in and out of traffic.

With a manual transmission, they are usually cheaper to maintain than an automatic because they are far less complex in their innerworkings. Automatic transmissions have more parts, more technology built in, and more hydraulics and electronics to ensure the gear movement works smoothly as it’s supposed to.

Is a Manual Transmission Easier To Maintain Than an Automatic?A manual transmission relies on you to operate the clutch and shift as needed.

An automatic transmission relies on technology.

That gives the advantage to a manual transmission when comparing repair costs. Of course, there are other circumstances that impact longevity. Like everything in your vehicle, regular maintenance is everything.

Maintenance when driving a manual transmission

No matter what type of car you drive, regular maintenance is a part of your routine.

No matter what car you drive, it’s a good idea to refer to your owner’s manual to learn more about the maintenance process. The manufacturer created a guide to help you keep your car in good operating condition, making recommendations for repair work and replacement to add longevity.

While transmission fluid doesn’t need replacement as rapidly as motor oil, it’s still something that impacts the way your car moves and drives. Transmission fluid may need to be replaced every 15,000 miles or so – follow the guidelines for your make and model.

Scheduling transmission fluid changes will keep fresh transmission fluid in your vehicle, helping it run better. But don’t assume it stays fresh and without problems as you operate your vehicle. Transmission fluid can be checked similarly to motor oil. You’ll find a dipstick under the hood to perform periodic checks. Be sure levels remain constant, and look for any discoloration, which could mean there’s a leak and a seal needs replacing.

Be conscious of how you move through the gears. Be sure the clutch is all the way in before you move between gears. To prevent wear and tear, be sure you come to a complete stop before moving to reverse. If something feels like it’s sticking, don’t force the gears.

Maintenance when driving an automatic transmission

In many ways, properly maintaining an automatic transmission is similar to a manual.

Check the transmission fluid periodically to ensure it’s filled. If you notice it’s low, or a change in color has occurred, it’s time to bring it in for a mechanic to evaluate the system. Transmission fluid is naturally a clear, bright red color with a slightly sweet smell. If you notice the fluid is dark, murky, or loses its sweet smell, it’s time for replacement.

Don’t just throw any transmission fluid into your vehicle; every make and model comes with specific recommendations. This is also where it’s nice to have a trusted service station on your side, one you can trust to provide you with high quality fluids and parts.

Depending on your vehicle, you might also need occasional transmission fluid flush. This ensures fresh fluid stays within your vehicle, while older fluid is flushed from the system, no longer impacting your car.

While you might not have as much control over when the gears move as you’re driving, you should still pay attention to the shifting process.  Never throw your vehicle into park while your car is still rolling to a stop. Never move to reverse unless your vehicle is at a complete stop.

When you drive down steep grades, you should also move the gears manually into a lower gear to help control your speed without relying on the braking system. Too much heat from constant pressure on the brake pads can cause the system to overheat, putting you and your vehicle at greater risk.

Where costs change 

Whether you have a manual transmission or automatic, maintenance starts with transmission fluid. Over time, you may have to replace various parts, depending on your vehicle and the driving conditions.

How new is your vehicle? Some transmission parts may be covered by the manufacturer’s powertrain warranty. Depending on your vehicle, this might last 60,000, 80,000 miles, or more.

The clutch, however, for a manual transmission will not be a part of that warranty. It is considered a “wear” item, and will only fall under more generic warranty coverage, possibly with 12,000 miles or so of coverage.

If you drive your manual hard, you might go through clutches rapidly. This means more maintenance than you would experience with an automatic vehicle that handles shifting for you.

Automatic transmissions can also be abused. Hard drivers are always more susceptible to wear issues than drivers that learn to take things slow. Avoid quick stops and throwing your vehicle into gear. Never force movement when it’s not there. And pay attention to changes in the way your vehicle moves. Any sound, any smell, any difference could be a sign of failure. The sooner you bring it in for evaluation, the quicker the repair can be made, potentially saving you money in the process.

How can we help you keep your manual or automatic transmission in good working condition?

Why You Change Your Transmission Fluid

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It’s very easy to forget about servicing your transmission because it doesn’t need it very often, but when you change your transmission fluid it keeps your vehicle running smoothly and helps you avoid costly repairs down the road.  Your transmission undergoes a lot of stress.  The grit you see in used fluid is actually bits of clutch material.  This grit flowing through your transmission under pressure eats away at seals and gaskets which can lead to leaks.  The transmission operates at very high temperatures – much higher than engine temperatures.  Those high temperatures eventually cause the transmission fluid to start to break down and loose efficiency.  At best, your transmission won’t operate smoothly.  At worst, it could lead to very costly damage.  When you change your transmission fluid and it’s running properly, it transfers more power from your engine to the drive wheels and improves fuel economy.  That’s why manufacturers have recommended changing your transmission fluid at regular intervals.  Your owner’s manual has a schedule for transmission service and, of course, your Express Car Care service adviser can tell you what the manufacturer recommends.  At Express Car Care, we are able to perform a transmission service while you wait and the cost is usually quite reasonable.  When you think about how much a major transmission repair can cost, the cost to change your transmission fluid with our transmission service is downright cheap.  Come on in or give us a call and let us know what we can do to help you keep your car on the road.

All-Wheel, Front-Wheel, Rear-Wheel – What’s The Difference?

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Here in Colorado, we face a variety of driving experiences throughout the year.

Scorching hot days where the pavement seems to melt before your eyes? Check.

Frigid temperatures with ice and snow packed roads that make it difficult to drive? Check, we have those too.

All of that can make it difficult to decide which car to buy. Should you focus on purchasing an all-wheel, front-wheel, or rear-wheel design? What’s the difference? Is one suited better for Colorado driving?

What is front-wheel drive?

When it comes to selecting a family car to get you around the city, front-wheel drive vehicles remain a popular choice. One recent study showed that just over 40 percent of the vehicles on the road today have front-wheel drive. But what exactly does that mean?

With a front-wheel drivetrain, the power of the vehicle remains with the front two wheels. This setup gives the front wheels the responsibility of moving and steering the car where you desire it to go.

From a design perspective, this is a less complex model, therefore it is also the least expensive way of powering a car. Because the engine is already upfront, it’s easier to connect power to the front wheels via two shorter drive axles.

But cost and ease is only part of the reason front-wheel drive vehicles remain one of the most popular choices on the road. They are also one of the most fuel-efficient.

Back in 1975, the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) program was enacted. It was designed to improve fuel economy during the time of the Arab Oil Embargo. It sought standards to curtail fuel consumption as well as create jobs and cut global warming. As a part of that, automakers discovered that front-wheel drive vehicles was the quickest were to gain a few miles per gallon.

Having a more compact drivetrain, where the parts sit in front of the vehicle, reduces the weight. Less weight to move around on the road means a more fuel-efficient vehicle. It also works well here in Colorado because having the motor over the drivetrain also improves acceleration and traction. Whether roads are filled with water, ice, snow, sand, or gravel, a front-wheel drive vehicle will be easier to keep under control.

What is rear-wheel drive?

All-Wheel, Front-Wheel, Rear-Wheel - What’s The Difference?Everything we discussed above that comes equipped with a front-wheel drive car is reversed with a rear-wheel model.

You’ll find a variety of vehicles equipped with rear-wheel drive. Rear-wheel drive is a transmission system designed for a more even weight distribution and optimal handling in normal driving conditions. When the sun is shining and you’re ready to take your car for a drive, you’ll enjoy the performance of a rear wheel drive system. Punch the accelerator from a standing start, the weight transfers to the rear, and gives you a smoother transition as you pick up speed. No fishtailing.

However, that performance doesn’t convert well when ice and snow build up. With more power in the rear wheels, it increases the possibility of fishtailing and losing control as your back wheels try to maneuver.

What is all-wheel drive?

All-wheel drive is a type of four-wheel drive system. It automatically shifts power between the front and rear wheels, depending on the kind of driving conditions. It’s designed for lighter winter driving and off-pavement use. If you truly want to go four-wheeling, you’re better off selecting a four-wheel drive vehicle. But for most driving conditions here across the front-range, all-wheel drive is a good choice.

The concept of all-wheel drive has changed considerably since its inception. The split between all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive used to be more pronounced. To switch between the two, you would have to shift between them, selecting your driving preference. Thanks to technology, the difference is more automatic, with different types of vehicles moving seamlessly between the two, depending on the driving conditions. Vehicles like “crossovers” and others offer a wide variety of performance features. It’s easier to focus on the make and model, determining which is a good fit for your driving needs.

The role of the tires

While a vehicle’s drivetrain is important to how well your vehicle will perform in different situations, there’s another piece to the puzzle that can help make your car safer. The tires on your car are equally important to overall performance.

If you purchase a sporty vehicle, one that is designed for performance on dry roads, they are usually sold with summer tires designed with traction that can hug the open road. Dry conditions give you ease of handling, and can be quite fun to drive. However, the moment you add ice and snow to the mix, those tires won’t seem so impressive.

By adding snow tires to a front-wheel drive vehicle, you may see better performance than an all-wheel drive with summer tires. Again, the two pieces work in conjunction with each other to help you stay in control while you’re driving on the road.

Here in Colorado, we have both types of road conditions. And while all season tires can work well all year long, if you travel significant distances all year long and want the best performance possible in all conditions, combining snow tires with all-wheel drive is the way to go.

Problems with the drivetrain

No matter which type of vehicle you own, at some point in time, you may notice problems with the drivetrain.

  • Vibrations or intense shaking from under the vehicle
  • Difficulty making turns
  • A loud clunking noise when shifting occurs as you drive
  • A shuddering when stopping or starting
  • A squeaking noise at low speeds
  • A knocking noise as you drive

Any sound out of the ordinary is a reason for concern. If you notice something changes with the way your car drives, pay attention to where it’s coming from. This can help one of our mechanics pinpoint the problem.

Whether you have a front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all-wheel drive vehicle, the most important aspect of keeping them running well is to get them serviced regularly.

Help, I Think My Transmission May Be In Trouble

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Car problems are often difficult to diagnose for the average driver.

It’s easy to see when you have a flat tire, or if the windshield wipers are no longer cleaning the windshield. But once the problem is tucked up under the hood, and your car starts making strange noises or emitting odorous smells, it’s hard to tell what’s the cause. Signs often can lead in multiple directions. What’s a driver to do?

Yet each system in your vehicle is essential in keeping you safe as you drive. Imagine driving down the mountains after a day of skiing without a brake system. Or driving on the coldest day of the year without a heating system. Not a good thought.

Likewise, the transmission system is essential to keeping you safe while you drive. It’s also one of the most complicated. Without a transmission system, power would never transfer from your engine to your wheels. When a problem starts somewhere in the transmission system, it can take a while for you to notice the issue. The more time passes with a part loose or missing, means more damage can occur internally. And that equates to a more expensive repair down the road.

When you have trouble with the transmission, several signs occur as warning signals. Catch it early, and you can repair the transmission long before it becomes a serious threat.

What is a transmission system?

Today’s cars operate with one of two types of transmissions: automatic or manual.

Help, I Think My Transmission May Be In TroubleThe automatic transmission is by far the most popular on new car models today. But the manual transmission is simpler to understand, and you’ll still find it a popular choice in sports cars or off-road vehicles that want more control over how they shift and drive.

A manual transmission is made up of a series of gears and an input and output shaft. The gears on the input shaft engage with the gears on the output shaft, which determines what gear the vehicle is in while it drives.

The driver controls what gear it’s in by moving a shift lever. They press down on the clutch pedal to disengage the gears, the move the levers to reengage the gears depending on what gear they prefer.

With an automatic transmission, the same essential process occurs, only in an automatic way. Instead of having a clutch, the automatic transmission uses a torque converter to move the gear set. An automatic transmission also uses a single concentric shaft instead of two, with the gears located inside and around each other in more planetary fashion. Instead of being controlled by a shift lever, the gears move through hydraulics, which are in turn, controlled by an electrical panel.

If the transmission system is working well, your car moves without a hitch. At the first sign of transmission failure, it’s important to bring your car in. What will your vehicle do?

Check Engine Light

Because your vehicle is more automated than ever, the tiny sensors watch for errors within the system. At the first sign of trouble, it will illuminate the check engine light. People often ignore it for a bit because the check engine light can mean many things. The sooner you get your car checked, the more you can avoid bigger problems. This trigger is often so sensitive it can pick up errors long before they turn into smells, noises, or vibrations as you start and stop. And that means you can solve the problem long before it migrates into something bigger.

Gear Problems

When a car rolls off the assembly line, the transmission operates without flaw. But over the years, the shifting becomes a little more clumsy, cumbersome, often feel like it’s sticking as it’s moving from gear to gear.

If the transmission feels like it sticks before moving gears, it could be low on transmission fluid. It could have a leak somewhere in the system, or even contamination from a water intrusion. The more the vehicle is allowed to continue at these levels, the more likely your car will overheat, causing internal damage and transmission failure.

Sticking gears isn’t the only way a problem shows. In some cases, the reverse can occur, with the transmission slipping and revving the engine into high gear. This creates undue wear on the internal parts, possibly overheating the system and ultimately causing failure.

If it feels as if the gears struggle to engage at any stage of driving, it’s time to bring your vehicle in for a check up.

Leaking Fluid

Fluid should never visibly leak from your vehicle at any time. And sort of a leak is a red flag it’s time to bring your vehicle in for an inspection.

Transmission fluid is typically red, and will have a sweet smell. You’ll notice the drip from underneath the vehicle in the middle of the car.

A leak is an indicator of a loose transmission pan, a drive shaft out of balance, or worn out seals or gaskets. It can also be a sign of damage somewhere within the system.

Burning Smell

Within the transmission system, if the hydraulic fluid is ever low or starts to overheat, it will give off a burning smell. Because transmission fluid starts as a sweet smell, you’ll often notice that first, followed by the burning spell as it becomes too hot. This can often be serviced with a transmission flush and replacement. But if you wait too long, it can damage the entire system.

Neutral Noise

When you place your car in neutral, do you hear a grinding sound? Any noise you hear that’s out of the ordinary could be a sign of a problem within the system.

The source is usually something simple, like worn out bearings or low transmission fluid. Again, if you act quickly, chances are it will be a fairly easy fix.

Clutch Pedal Changes

If you do have a manual transmission, you can also watch for changes in the way the clutch pedal grabs. Does it engage very low or high in the process? That could signal a problem with engagement, or a hydraulic issue. A simple adjustment may solve the issue, or more likely replacing a worn clutch disk and pressure plate.

If you’re experiencing trouble with the transmission, it isn’t something you can put off indefinitely. The sooner you act, the quicker your car will return to normal, and the safer you’ll be as you move throughout your busy days.

Have a question about your transmission of any other problem with your car? We’re here to help. Give us a call.

Is Your Transmission Failing?

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If you’ve ever driven a vehicle with a manual transmission, you became more aware of how much it shifts as you drive around. You shift into reverse to move out of garages and parking spaces. You move from first to second, to third and fourth gears as you speed up and slow down from stop signs and traffic lights.

When you move to an automatic transmission, it works in much the same way. The difference being that the internal workings of the car do the job for you. No pushing in the clutch and moving the gears into position.

The transmission system transfers power from the car engine to the wheels. It’s what gives your vehicle mobility. It’s what allows your car to move backward and forward.

As you can imagine, a lot of stress is put onto each of the components within the transmission system over the years. That’s why transmission failure is common; it’s not a matter of if, but when. The transmission will require repair work the older it gets.

The good news is there are warning signs.

If you pay attention to the signals, you can catch problems early. That can save you from being stranded, and prevent expensive repairs in the long run.

How do you know if your transmission is failing?

Dashboard light

Your vehicle was designed to warn you well in advance of serious threats to your car’s systems. Pay attention to lights on your dashboard. A lit up check engine light can mean a variety of things. It can be a simple repair, or a sign of a bigger problem. Don’t ignore it. Instead, schedule an appointment with one of our technicians as soon as possible so we can diagnose the problem and get you back on the road without issue.

Struggles to switch gears

Sometimes, with an automatic transmission, you start to hear it struggle to find the right gear. If you have a manual transmission, shifting becomes more difficult, often feeling like you have to add force to move it between the various gears. This could be a signal your transmission fluid is low, or the mechanic you trusted your car with put in the wrong kind of fluid.

Slipping gears

Is Your Transmission Failing?Another thing you might notice is that your vehicle’s transmission tends to impulsively slip in and out of place. This can be highly dangerous if you’re on a busy road and your gears slip. Imagine flying down the highway from a day up skiing, and your gears slip to neutral. If you feel this at any point, bring it in to have it evaluated as soon as possible.

Grinding

This is more common in an automatic transmission, where a grinding or shaking occurs as you move between gears. This is one of the clearest indicators that your transmission is failing.

Dragging clutch

With a manual car, if the clutch fails to disengage the clutch disk from the flywheel as you press down on the clutch pedal, it’s a sign your transmission is having problems.

Leaking fluid

Always be conscious as you approach your car for visible signs of a problem. Transmission fluid is dyed red in color to help distinguish it from other fluids. It also has a sweet smell.

Burning smell

While your engine is running, if you ever smell a burning smell, it’s time to bring it in to be serviced immediately. It’s often an indicator that your transmission is overheating, which could be from something as simple as low transmission fluid. The faster you repair it, the less risk you have of causing further damage to the system.

Unresponsive

In some cases, your car will refuse to respond to any attempt to change gears. If you can’t move from park to drive, it’s a problem with your transmission. Your only course of action may be to have it towed in for service.

How to properly maintain a transmission

Now that you’ve determined you may be experiencing problems with your transmission, how do you maintain it? How do you ensure you won’t run into trouble at the most inconvenient time?

First of all, remember regular maintenance is the key to your vehicle’s success. You should also pay attention to your car, and be alerted to any changes that may present a problem.

Check the level of your transmission fluid regularly, depending on your make and model. Some vehicles have a dipstick similar to your motor oil for easy access. Still others are closed systems, and require knowledge and a few tools, or bring it in and one of our mechanics can check the levels for you.

You should also schedule an automatic transmission fluid service change every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on your vehicle’s requirements. The old transmission fluid will be flushed from the system, the fluid pan removed and cleaned, and a new filter will be installed to the correct amount.

Be aware of the way you drive. Slow down. You should never make quick switches from drive to reverse, or reverse to drive, especially if the car is still moving. In most cases, this will stall the engine, and possibly do a lot of damage to your transmission.

Be conscious of how you drive. Smooth acceleration helps to allow gears to change at the correct times, and provide you with the most fuel efficient behavior.

Take care of your transmission

You may have heard the horror stories of drivers facing expensive repair bills installing a new transmission. And we’re not going to lie, a replacement can be one of the most expensive auto repair bills you’ll ever receive.

Instead of waiting for that repair bill to come, commit to regular maintenance instead. By watching your vehicle and getting to know how it acts, you’re more likely to recognize when something goes amiss. That means you can drive it into our service station long before you have a seized transmission.

We’re here to help you keep your car running, no matter how old it is or how many miles you’ve put on. Let us give you a quote today.

What If Your Car Isn’t Shifting Right?

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There are a few problematic issues with your car that are easy to diagnose. If you forget to put gas in the tank, you’ll recognize the familiar sputter as your car chugs to a stop on the last fumes. You’ll also see the warning sign blinking at you on your dashboard.

Other systems can be more difficult to diagnose. When your car isn’t shifting right, for example, it could be a number of problems. Most likely it’s a sign of a problem with your transmission system.

What happens when your transmission starts to fail

Wouldn’t it be nice if your car sent out warning signs as each piece began to fail? It does.

Let’s say you take your car out for a drive on the weekend. Maybe you head into the hills for a day of skiing, or just a short drive to the park to play a game of softball with a few friends.

Halfway there, your car starts making a whining noise, so you slow down. Or maybe you pick up speed to head up a hill and your car suddenly revs up and bucks.

Then you notice your car doesn’t shift quite right. Maybe it’s more difficult for you to put it into gear. Or maybe you hear a clunk or even a whir as the gears attempt to move as you drive.

What could it be?

If you’re like most drivers today, you head online and do a little research. That’s probably how you got here.

Very quickly, you start to build a picture of what could be wrong. Gears. Transmission. Very expensive … And your mind shifts to a variety of different questions.

  • Could it be that my car has a blown transmission?
  • How did it happen?
  • Was there a way I could have prevented it?
  • How much will it cost to repair my transmission?
  • Is it worth it? Or is it time to look for another car?
  • What are my options?

We’re here to point you in the right direction.

When an automatic transmission is working correctly

Before we get into the warning signs of why your car isn’t shifting right, let’s talk about how the transmission is designed for your vehicle.

Like other systems in your car, the automatic transmission uses a combination of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulics to make the system work.

The mechanical system is designed for functionality. It helps the high engine speed and the slower gear speed synchronize to give you a smooth drive. The electrical system provides sensors to ensure proper gear selection and position. The hydraulic system uses fluid to ensure proper gear positioning. They work together to ensure the automatic transmission flows efficiency every time you get behind the wheel.

What are the signs of transmission failure?

At the first sign of failure, you’ll find your car tries to warn you something is wrong. If you ignore it and the situation worsens, your repair bills rise, until finally, you might have to replace the transmission altogether. You should watch for:

The transmission warning light – luckily, today’s cars have dashboard lights for everything. Don’t ignore them when the little lights pop on. They give you ample time to make your way to a service station.What If Your Car Isn’t Shifting Right?

The car isn’t shifting right – when an automatic transmission transitions smoothly, you don’t pay any attention to how it operates as you speed up and slow down. That changes when it starts to have problems. You’ll notice the movement. You’ll hear it, feel it, sense it.

The gears change position for no reason – when you’re driving at a stable speed, you’ll notice the gear moves for no reason, causing a jolt in your driving patterns. It may slip from a gear to neutral, creating an unusual sound from your engine.

A fluid leak – the hydraulics in your transmission system need hydraulic fluid to operate correctly. This shouldn’t leak. If you notice a puddle of fluid underneath your vehicle, it can be a sign something is wrong with the transmission system. To distinguish it from other fluids your car uses, the transmission fluid is a clear red, sweet smelling liquid, though it may darken if it’s bad.

Delayed gear engagement – you press down on the accelerator and expect to go. Only it doesn’t, not right away. There’s a delay as the gears take extra time to move and connect. There’s a pause, your car lurches forward, bucks as it tries to respond.

What is the cost of fixing a transmission problem?

To fix your transmission, it boils down to parts and labor. That’s difficult to estimate without bringing your car in and having it evaluated.

Yet it’s important to note that for every day you continue to drive your car, ignoring the problem, the damage continues to worsen. What once was a simple fix may now be difficult – and expensive.

It may be as simple as replacing the fluid. Of course, if you wait until eventually, you’re stuck with a blown transmission, the repair bill can quickly add up.

Any indication that your vehicle isn’t shifting correctly should be dealt with quickly to avoid bigger problems.

While simple repairs like changing out the transmission fluid may only need a day in the shop, the act of replacing a transmission will take longer, allowing two full days or more.

Of course, the easiest way to budget your time and your costs for the project is to bring it in for an estimate. Only then can we provide you with all of your options.

Do you think your vehicle might have a problem with its transmission? Have you noticed your car doesn’t shift right, yet you aren’t quite sure what’s wrong?

Trust us to help diagnose the problem, and provide you with the best way to move forward with your car. We look forward to serving you with all of your car needs.

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