Your transmission is one of the most important components in your car. Unfortunately it’s also an easy part of it to neglect, even if you’re diligent about booking your car in for its regular scheduled service. Yet transmission servicing matters even if you drive an automatic, so it’s important to remember your automatic transmission service too.
Based at Acacia Ridge, MST Mechanical are your mechanics in Brisbane specialising in European, Japanese and Korean vehicles as well as 4WDs of all makes and models. With skilled technicians onsite and the latest tools and technology, we offer all kinds of services and repairs including transmission replacement.
Wondering why your automatic transmission service is so important and how you can tell when it’s due? Here is MST Mechanical’s complete guide to this crucial aspect of car care.
What is an automatic transmission service?
Transmission fluid breaks down over time, forcing your gearbox to work harder than it should and negatively affecting your car’s performance. A standard auto transmission service involves replacing the transmission fluid so the system stays lubricated, changing the transmission filter in order to remove debris and checking for leaks and worn-out components. A diagnostic check is also a standard part of an automatic transmission service and catches problems such as gear slipping early on so they don’t become worse over time.
Why you should book an automatic transmission service
It’s a common misconception that an automatic transmission is “filled for life” or “sealed for life”. While frequently used, it’s a figure of speech that doesn’t account for how your transmission system actually operates. Automatic fluid does a tough job lubricating, cooling and powering your car, and no type of fluid remains effective forever. A lot of car owners only realise this when their “sealed for life” transmission breaks down or suffers unexpected issues.
If you can’t remember the last time you had an automatic transmission service, booking one will help your car continue to run at its best and give you peace of mind while you drive.
Benefits of an automatic transmission service
Booking an automatic transmission service can make a world of difference to your vehicle. The benefits are often noticeable and may include:
- Extending the lifespan of the components and helping prevent expensive problems down the line.
- Smoother gear shifting that eliminates harsh or jerky reactions.
- Improved cooling of internal parts that reduces the risk of damage from high temperatures.
- Improved fuel efficiency without mechanical drag or slippage.
- Improved overall performance with a smoother, more comfortable driving experience.
- Better temperature control and the prevention of heat spikes that can break down oil chemistry.
How often should you book an automatic transmission service?
You may find your transmission doesn’t have a particular schedule laid out for servicing. With many auto manufacturers pushing the concept of “sealed for life”, you may have to do your own research into how often you should service your transmission.
As a general rule, automatic cars benefit from a fluid service every 60,000-100,000 kilometres. However, many mechanics recommend even more frequent servicing of every 40,000 kilometres, (or every two to three years) especially with a lot of towing, hauling loads or hard usage in rough conditions.
Signs of transmission trouble
If it’s been a while since your automatic car last had a transmission service, you may notice signs of damage or wear and tear. The following issues can all be signs that you’re due for an automatic transmission service or even a repair job:
- Your car shifting gears unexpectedly or struggling to stay in the right gear.
- Rough or delayed shifting or your car jerking as you shift.
- Grinding, clunking, whining or other unusual noises while you drive.
- Fluid leaks that cause puddles of brown or red transmission fluid to form under the car.
- The transmission warning light on your car’s dashboard turning on.
All of these signs can point to eventual transmission failure if the problem isn’t addressed, so it’s best to get them checked out as soon as possible.
Book your automatic transmission service with MST Mechanical: Euro Servicing Specialists
MST Mechanical offers complete car care including manual and automatic transmission servicing and transmission replacement. From our fully equipped workshop, our Brisbane mechanics provide high-quality workmanship with in-depth knowledge and quick turnaround times.
MST Mechanical’s servicing is designed to keep your vehicle in the best possible condition while meeting all of the manufacturer’s requirements. All of our technicians follow factory-recommended schedules with precision with genuine or equivalent quality parts and approved fluids. As European vehicle specialists, we use advanced diagnostics tailored for Euro brands and provide the care needed to keep your luxury vehicle running smoothly.
To find out more, get in touch with MST Mechanical online or visit our workshop in person at 1240 Beaudesert Road, Acacia Ridge.
