Transmission Experts Car Care Tips - Quality Auto Service & Auto Repair in Kent WA

Transmission Experts
26454 Pacific Highway S
Kent, WA 98032

Call Today!
(253) 220-6205

Full Service Auto Repair Since 1981!

"My impression of Transmission Experts was very positive, start to finish. My Acura broke down and I found them on the internet. Dave, their head service writer, took the time to listen to my frantic story (I was late to pick up my kids) and then routed their tow truck over. When I came in he carefully explained the diagnostic procedures they followed and why I (unfortunately) needed a transmission. He presented a detailed bid and a timeline of how soon I could be back on the road. I said okay and they did exactly what they said they would, not a penny over. Thank you very much to Dave and his technicians, you softened an experience no one wants to have. "
- Katie - Tukwila, WA

"Dave - Thanks so much for your help. I am very skeptical of the automotive business in general but you came recommended and didn't disappoint. Good job. "
- Tim - Auburn, WA

"I brought my pickup into you guys after having a friend install a used transmission from a junkyard. I wish I had done that first. Much easier for me knowing professionals were taking responsibility to make sure it was done right the first time. Thanks. "
- Miguel - Kent, WA

"To the crew at Transmission Experts. A month later and my car drives beautifully. Thank you so much. "
- Jennifer - Seattle, WA

Quality Transmission Repair
In Kent WA Since 1981

Financing Available!

Automatic Transmissions
According to the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association, 90% of ALL transmission failures are caused by overheating. Most of these can be blamed on worn out fluid that should have been replaced.

For optimum protection, change the fluid and filter every 30,000 miles.

What kind of automatic transmission fluid should you use in your transmission? The type specified in your owner's manual or printed on the transmission dipstick.

For older Ford automatics and certain imports, Type "F" is usually required. Most Fords since the 1980s require "Mercon" fluid, which is Ford's equivalent of Dexron II.

For General Motors, Chrysler and other imports, Dexron II is usually specified.

Manual Transmissions
Some older import vehicles (like Volkswagen Beetles) recommended periodic lube changes for their gearboxes, but no modern car or light truck requires it. The reason why is the oil stays relatively clean and runs fairly cool. Unlike the fluid in an automatic transmission that is being constantly churned (which generates heat) and contaminated by particles worn off the clutch plates, the fluid in a manual transmission or transaxle has life pretty easy. So it usually lasts the life of the transmission.

The only reason you might change the fluid would be if you were experiencing hard shifting problems during cold weather. Most older rear-wheel drive transmissions use a heavy gear oil like 75W, 80W or 90W, which can get pretty stiff at subzero temperatures. Changing to a lighter oil may improve shifting.

NOTE: Some newer vehicles with electronically-controlled transmissions require Dexron IIe or Dexron III fluid. GM says its new long-life Dexron III fluid can be substituted for Dexron II in older vehicle applications.

CAUTION: Using the wrong type of fluid can affect the way the transmission shifts and feels. Using Type F fluid in an application that calls for Dexron II may make the transmission shift too harshly. Using Dexron II in a transmission that requires Type F may allow the transmission to slip under heavy load, which can accelerate clutch wear.