Portland Automatic Transmission Service

Auto Transmission Diagnostics 

The initial diagnostic check includes scanning your transmission control module, documenting codes, check transmission fluid level and condition, and test drive your vehicle to determine if there is an external or internal failure that is causing the problem. We then will discuss with you the next steps needed to fix your car.

If further diagnostics are needed we will give you an estimate to run transmission system tests to further diagnose what is causing the problem. Today’s Automatic Transmissions use a variety of sensors on the engine and throughout the car, along with a computer system that control its functions. Most computer-controlled transmissions use a TCM (Transmission Control Module) however some systems use a single computer for both the engine and transmission control. These are commonly referred to as an ECM (electronic Control Module).

In newer vehicles most of the shifting is controlled by computers relying on information from sensors and solenoids to tell the transmission when to shift. This takes expensive tools and scanners to properly pinpoint what component is failing. Most sensors and solenoids are located externally and can be replaced at a fraction of the cost of rebuilding your transmission.

If we determine that it’s an internal failure we will then provide you with options, an estimate, and timeline to rebuild and get you back on the road.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

ATF is bright red in color, clear and smells somewhat sweet when in good condition. If the fluid is dark or has a burnt smell then it’s time to get the fluid serviced. To check if you’re running low on fluid, take your car for a short drive to warm it up and then lift the hood and read the transmission dipstick. Some vehicle do not have a dipstick under the hood and require the vehicle be lifted and checked from underneath while vehicle is running and in neutral. Unlike motor oil, transmission fluid does not burn off or get consumed so if the level is low then there is a leak somewhere that must be fixed. It is recommended to top up the fluid anyway even if the leak still exists to make sure there is enough fluid for the transmission to function properly until you get it fixed.

Any transmission fluid leak should be repaired as soon as possible. Transmission fluid leaks are the most common causes of transmission break down. Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is the life-blood of a transmission as it lubricates, cleans, conditions, seals and acts as hydraulic fluid. See your owner’s manual to see what type of transmission fluid the manufacture specifies for your vehicle.

Symptoms of automatic transmission problem:

• Leaking transmission fluid
• Fluid smells burnt
• Shifting hard
• Check Engine Light is on
• Transmission is in limp mode
• Transmission neutrals while driving
• Clunks into gear when coming to a stop
• When accelerating engine revs up no acceleration
• Vehicle has no reverse
• Vehicle shutters at freeway speeds
• Slow engagement when cold
• Vehicle is stuck in park

Transmission Removal and Install:

Removal of transmission and re-install. Includes Power Hot Flush of cooler and cooler lines on automatic transmission system.

Automatic Transmission Replacement:

We offer free estimates for what it will cost to replace your transmission. Our rebuilds come with a nationwide 2 year 24,000 mile warranty covering parts and labor.