Transmission Services Services in Des Plaines, IL

Why Transmission Repair is So Important

The transmission of a vehicle can be compared to that of a bike. In a multi-speed bicycle, low gears allow for quick acceleration, but not for very much speed; once you get going, you can switch into a higher gear to get that speed. Cars work in essentially the same way, and it’s vital to match your engine output to the speed at which you’re traveling; otherwise, your car simply won’t perform very well.

Why You Need a Transmission Flush

It’s important to have your transmission fluid flushed every so often because, over time, it becomes very dirty—and dirty transmission fluid simply isn’t able to provide the lubricating functions your transmission needs. Thus, your transmission system will bear the brunt of everyday wear and tear, and you could start to experience more and more problems.

How Does Your Vehicle Transmission Work?

The transmission is one of the most important systems in your vehicle, yet many drivers don’t quite understand how it works. Essentially, the transmission regulates the amount of power your engine sends to the wheels, relative to the speed you’re going—ensuring an optimal performance. To accomplish this, your transmission needs transmission fluid, which lubricates your gears and prevents wear and tear. Additionally, vehicle owners should be aware of the need for routine transmission maintenance—and in particular, transmission fluid inspection and replacement. You can have this done at Meineke in Des Plaines IL, and we recommend making it part of your routine preventative maintenance schedule.

How Transmission Fluid Works

Transmission fluid serves a pretty simple purpose: It lubricates your gears. Thus, as they shift, the wear and tear they take on is minimal. Transmission fluid extends the lifespan of your transmission considerably, which is what makes it so important to schedule a regular transmission fluid check, and to replace your transmission fluid when it becomes too dirty.

Why Check Transmission Fluid?

Transmission fluid is a critical part of your transmission, serving in one key capacity: It keeps your gears lubricated, and safeguards them against wear and tear. In other words, it extends the lifespan of your transmission system. As the transmission fluid becomes dirty, though, it doesn’t lubricate nearly as well, which is why you’ll eventually need to schedule a transmission flush.

How Frequently is Transmission Maintenance Needed?

Some auto manufacturers recommend that you get a transmission flush every 30,000 miles. For other cars, it’s just once every 100,000 miles. You can check your owner’s manual for a general estimate, but really what we recommend is just asking a Meineke service professional to check transmission fluid levels every time you get an oil change or tire rotation. Just make it part of your preventative maintenance routine, and stay on top of all your transmission maintenance requirements!