The transmission is one of the most important systems in your vehicle. Whether your drive a truck, SUV, or a compact sedan, the transmission is essential to helping you get where you need to be. Like all parts though, it can require service from time to time. If you need transmission repair near Ithaca, Elmira, or Corning, visit the service center at Maguire Honda of Ithaca.

What Does the Transmission Do?

Your transmission manages your gear shifting. Without it, you're not going anywhere fast. It's how you're able to accelerate from a slower speed in first gear to a faster speed in second or third gear. Shifting to a low gear is also how your transmission can give you more traction, torque, and power when you're off-roading or driving through winter conditions.

There are two main types of transmissions: manual and automatic. A manual transmission is often referred to as a stick shift, because you control the gear shifts using a shift handle and a clutch. With an automatic, the transmission shifts gears and engages the clutch for you. Some vehicles run on a Continuously Variable Transmission, or CVT, but this is also considered an automatic.

Most Common Transmission Repairs

Like a lot of other systems in your car, the transmission needs maintenance to make sure it stays in good condition and runs properly. Both manual and automatic transmissions need transmission fluid to lubricate their parts. Without enough fluid, problems can pop up.

In an automatic, low transmission fluid can cause needle bearings to wear down or overheat and cause damage to the torque converter. One problem that both types of transmissions are at risk of is a damaged solenoid. This manages the flow of transmission fluid.

Another issue is when there's a problem with the clutch. While this can happen in a manual or automatic, you'll feel them in different ways. With an automatic, you'll be able to tell by how the car shifts. With a manual, you'll know based on how the clutch feels on your foot.

Any of these can be caused by low transmission fluid from being overdue for maintenance or a leak. That's why it's important to stay on top of your maintenance schedule. A technician should check your fluid levels and inspect your transmission whenever you make a routine visit to the service center.

Signs of Transmission Trouble

In most cases, transmission issues are easily noticed. Within a few minutes of driving you'll be able to feel that it isn't shifting properly. Some of the signs to look out for are:

• Slipping between gears
• Delayed gear shifts
• Stuck in first gear
• Aggressive shifting

Both types of transmission can have these problems, but you'll feel them faster and more intensely if you drive a vehicle with a manual transmission. You may also have a hard time shifting or notice that the gears don't change until a few seconds after you've already shifted.

Schedule Transmission Service

Schedule service with Maguire Honda of Ithaca when you need transmission repair near Ithaca, Elmira, and Corning. We have a team of experienced technicians who can take care of all your maintenance and repairs.