Your transmission is one of the most important (and expensive) components in your vehicle. It’s responsible for transferring power from your engine to your wheels, and without it, you’re not going anywhere. Yet, many drivers ignore early warning signs, hoping the problem will “just go away.” The truth? Every mile you drive with a failing transmission could be doing irreversible damage — damage that might cost thousands of dollars to fix later.
Q1: What happens if I keep driving with a bad transmission?
Driving with a bad transmission is like playing a game of Russian roulette with your car’s health. The problem won’t fix itself; it will get progressively worse. Small issues such as slipping gears or a minor leak can lead to catastrophic failure. Once that happens, you’re looking at a full rebuild or replacement, which can easily cost more than the car’s current value if it’s older.
It’s not just the transmission that’s at risk. The extra strain can damage your driveshaft, differential, and even the cooling system. In extreme cases, your vehicle could break down in traffic, creating a dangerous situation.
Q2: How can I tell if my transmission is about to fail?
Your car will usually send out distress signals well before the transmission completely fails. Watch out for:
- Slipping gears: The engine revs, but the car doesn’t accelerate like it should.
- Delayed shifting: Hesitation when shifting from park to drive or between gears.
- Strange noises: Grinding, whining, or clunking sounds.
- Burnt fluid smell: Transmission fluid that smells burnt or appears dark and dirty.
If you notice any of these, the smart move is to get your transmission checked immediately. The earlier you act, the better your chances of avoiding a major repair bill.
Q3: Can regular maintenance really make my transmission last longer?
Yes — and in fact, regular maintenance is the single biggest factor in extending the life of your transmission. For most vehicles, changing the transmission fluid and filter every 30,000 to 60,000 miles is recommended. Ignoring fluid changes can allow debris, metal shavings, and sludge to circulate through the system, accelerating wear.
A transmission in good condition can easily last over 150,000 miles with routine care. At Luis Transmissions, we not only replace fluids but also inspect for leaks, check seals, and look for early warning signs during every service.
Q4: Is it better to rebuild or replace a transmission?
The answer depends on the extent of the damage. A rebuild is often less expensive if the main housing and core components are intact. This involves replacing worn parts, seals, and gaskets while keeping the rest of the unit. A replacement is necessary when the transmission has suffered complete failure or severe internal damage.
At Luis Transmissions, we give honest recommendations based on your car’s age, mileage, and repair history so you can make the most cost-effective decision.
Q5: Why choose Luis Transmissions over other repair shops?
Transmission work is highly specialized. While some general mechanics can do basic repairs, diagnosing and fixing complex transmission issues requires advanced tools, training, and experience. Luis Transmissions focuses exclusively on transmissions — it’s what we do all day, every day. That focus allows us to pinpoint problems faster, complete repairs more efficiently, and stand behind our work with confidence.
📞 Call us today at 214-650-4781 for your expert transmission check!