Ask Transman
- Why does it cost so much to have my automatic transmission repaired?
- How do I know I'm not getting ripped-off?
- What is ATRA?
- How does ATRA take the worry out of automatic transmission repair?
- How do I check the transmission fluid level?
- Will it hurt to overfill the transmission?
- I Have a "CHECK ENGINE" light on. Could this indicate a transmission problem?
- My transmission is giving me problems. Does that mean I need a new one?
- Are there other things that can go wrong with my car that can affect my transmission also?
- I've heard so many horror stories about transmission shops. How can I pick a reputable shop in my area?
- Why does it cost so much to have my automatic transmission repaired?
You see, repairing an automatic transmission is not as simple as changing the spark plugs or fuel filter. Todays automatic transmissions--particularly those with front wheel drive technology or computerized systems--are extremely complicated units.
There are over three thousand parts in todays average automatic transmission. And the parts for some late model imports can cost ten times as much as parts for older, larger cars.
Just getting to the parts you need to see to find out what's wrong often calls for major surgery--especially in smaller cars where the manufacturer has tightly packed different mechanical systems on top of and around each other.
With such complex units, preventive maintenance is the key to keeping repair costs down. To help head off major problems, we recommend you have your transmission serviced at least every 12,000/15,000miles.
Ask us your transmission question.
- How do I know I'm not getting ripped-off?
There are several things you can do to protect yourself from dishonest transmission repair shops.
First, you can ask your regular automotive mechanic to recommend a transmission shop to you. You can then check with your local Chamber of Commerce to see if that shop has had any complaints filed against it. And you should always ask to see your transmission once it comes apart and insist that your old parts be returned to you.
But there's even a simpler way to protect yourself: have your automatic transmission repairs done by a member of ATRA-The Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association.
Ask us your transmission question.
- What is ATRA?
ATRA is a nonprofit professional organization for the automatic transmission repair industry. Its members comprise the worlds oldest and largest network of independent transmission rebuilding firms, with over 2000 members in the U.S. and Canada alone.
One of the major reasons ATRA exists is to protect its members and the public from dishonest or incompetent repair shops.
Ask us your transmission question.
- How does ATRA take the worry out of automatic transmission repair?
First, ATRA requires its member to employ experienced personnel whose skills have been tested and certified by the Association. To make sure they stay up to date on the latest automatic transmission models, ATRA also requires Association members to attend annual training seminars. When you take your transmission to an ATRA member's shop, you can be confident your dealing with technicians who know what they're doing.
Second, ATRA requires its members to conduct business in an ethical manner. Applicants for membership are not allowed to have unanswered Better Business Bureau complaints against them, nor may they ever have had more than five business-related suits filed against them, nor may they have been found guilty of any business related crime or violation within the previous two years. When you take your transmission to an ATRA member's shop, you can be confident your dealing with someone who treats customers fairly and honestly.
And third, when you have your automatic transmission rebuilt by an ATRA member, you can be protected by the Association's "Golden Rule Warranty Plan." This Plan is an inter-member warranty program sponsored by ATRA in which your rebuilt automatic transmission would be fixed for free by an ATRA member's shop should something go wrong with it within up to 3yrs/50,000 miles of the original repairs. (It's important that you understand your warranty. Talk to your local ATRA member for the specific conditions of this program and how it applies to the work you need done on your automatic transmission.)
Yes, we know it's not any fun when something goes wrong with your automatic transmission. But you can be confident you will be treated fairly and competently when you take your automatic transmission to an ATRA member for repairs.
Ask us your transmission question.
- How do I check the transmission fluid level?
Some vehicles have to be "hoisted" up on a lift in order to check the fluid, while others don't. Give us a call. We'll be glad to help.
Ask us your transmission question.
- Will it hurt to overfill the transmission?
In a word, no! Although, it is possible that gross overfilling can cause the fluid to be subjected to moving parts and become aerated which could cause abnormal operation. You may also notice leaks that ordinarily would not occur.
Ask us your transmission question.
- I Have a "CHECK ENGINE" light on. Could this indicate a transmission problem?
Yes it could. Bring the vehicle down to Hellyer Transmission so we can access the onboard transmission control computer to see if any codes have been stored in memory that indicate this.
Ask us your transmission question.
- My transmission is giving me problems. Does that mean I need a new one?
Not at all. In many cases an external problem can be repaired INEXPENSIVELY and efficiently!
Ask us your transmission question.
- Are there other things that can go wrong with my car that can affect my transmission also?
Yes, with today's electronic engine components, and transmission parts, there can often be a problem with the electronics in other operating areas of your car that will cause a poor performance in your transmission. That is why we need more technically trained employees today. We also have purchased state of the art equipment, including several electronic scanners that will help in the correct diagnosis of your transmission and other electrical problems. Check for a modern well equipped shop in your area when you need to have work done.
Ask us your transmission question.
- I've heard so many horror stories about transmission shops. How can I pick a reputable shop in my area?
We hear those stories to.
When we look for a new Dr./ or Specialist, we usually ask around for "referalls" from the people we know in the area we live in. That is how you should find a "Repair shop" After all, we are a Dr. for your vehicle!
Ask us your transmission question.
Ask Us Your Transmission Question
