The Triangle’s Premier Independent Auto Service and Repair for Audi, Volkswagen and Porsche






SERVING RALEIGH - DURHAM - CARY - WAKE FOREST

 

2620 Rowland Road, Suite 101

Raleigh NC 27615

(919) 850-4355

About Transmissions & Transmission Repair


Our Washburn Motorsports’ mechanics are experts at servicing, repairing and replacing both manual and automatic transmissions for Volkswagen, Audi and Porsche automobiles.  Automatic transmissions tend to be more complex, and this web page provides an overview of those devices.  Please call us if you have any questions about either type of transmission.


Automatic Transmissions


Your car’s automatic transmission is a complex and remarkable device. It somehow knows how fast you’re going, how fast you want to go, and what gear you should be using for best efficiency.  It’s internal workings are a mystery to most, and unless you’re a mechanic you probably don’t want to know the details.  So this web page will cover only those basics that you can use.


What is an automatic transmission?


It’s just what its name suggests.  It’s an automatic device that uses internal gears to smoothly transform the rapid rotational motion of your engine into the slower rotation of your wheels. While there are many parts inside, your transmission is essentially made up of a few key components:

  1. •Bell Housing - This is a fairly large metal case that you can see when you look underneath your car.  Your transmission’s internal parts are housed in this case.

  2. •Gears - Even though you're not shifting them, an automatic transmission has many gears.

  3. •Fluid - The transmission fluid (a liquid) is a key to making your transmission work.  It is usually red or green in color.

  4. •Filter - The transmission fluid must be clean for your transmission to work properly.  The filter continuously traps unwanted particles to keep them out of the gears.


What kinds of problems can occur with automatic transmissions?


There are two basic kinds of automatic transmission problems that you can encounter:

  1. •Your car will not move at all.

  2. •Your car won't operate smoothly.  Sometimes it may feel like your transmission is not shifting at the right time, sometimes it may seem to take a long time to shift into the next gear (this is called ‘slipping’), and sometimes you may hear distinct clunking sounds.


Can I repair my automatic transmission myself?


Probably not. There are just too many specialized tools and a lot of training that you would need to do a good job.  If you think you may have problems with your transmission, have it checked by a professional.


Are automatic transmission repairs expensive?

Unfortunately, repairs can be costly.  As with many automobile components, minor repairs are less expensive than major repairs.  Have your mechanic inspect your transmission periodically.  And don’t ignore any small changes that you notice when your transmission shifts into gear.  If it doesn’t sound right or act normally, something could be wrong.  Have it checked.


We’re happy to answer any questions you may have.  Give us a call or stop in to see us.




NOTE: This information is presented for educational purposes only. It is not intended as repair advice, and you should not attempt repairs or service based on the information contained on this website.

 

Volkswagen, Audi and Porsche Experts

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