Replacing a transmission can set you back around $5,000 whether you repair the one you have or buy a new one for your diesel truck.
If you’re a truck owner, you know that maintenance and repairs cost money. But big-ticket items, like transmissions, can set you back a small fortune.
Going in for transmission services at the first sign of trouble makes sense. By spending a relatively small amount on routine maintenance, you can cut back on the amount you have to spend on repairs and replacements.
Here’s a look at how to tell when to take your diesel truck needs transmission services.
Transmission Services Needed at Regular Intervals
It’s critical that you get recommended transmission service at the intervals stipulated in your truck’s ownership manual. Doing this will help you to cut down on any unexpected problems that can render your truck inoperable.
Manual transmissions typically require service every 30,000 miles to 60,000 miles or so. The reason for this is that transmission fluid in manuals can get contaminated due to the wear and tear of components.
Automatic transmissions usually require service every 60,000 miles to 100,000 miles or so. The heat generated by automatic transmissions can break down the fluid, and degraded fluid can damage the transmission.
Grinding Noises
You’ll need undercar services if you hear grinding noises under your diesel truck. It’s one of the most disconcerting sounds you’ll ever hear.
So if your truck engine’s running and you happen to hear grinding noises, you won’t want to simply ignore the problem. Taking prompt action will be critical.
Grinding noises are often the result of your engine being out of synch with the speed of your wheels. This problem will lead to the dreaded grinding noise that can strike fear into the heart of truck owners anywhere.
Gear-Shifting Woes
Are you having difficulty shifting gears? If you find it hard or impossible to shift into the gear you want, you’ll want to go to an automotive service center. The problem will usually have something to do with your truck’s transmission.
Whether your truck has a manual transmission or an automatic transmission, you can potentially experience gear-shifting problems.
It costs a lot to replace or to repair a transmission. There’s no getting around it if your transmission is shot. Getting it serviced regularly will, however, reduce the odds of your having to incur pocket-draining service down the road.
The professionals at an automotive service facility will know what to look for, how to diagnose the problem, and how to get your truck working properly again. Being proactive rather than reactive will save you money.
Truck Won’t Budge
If your truck won’t budget after you’ve started it up and stepped on the gas pedal, the problem might be the transmission. You’ll need to get your truck towed to a service provider offering diesel truck care.
It’s important to keep in mind that there are multiple reasons why your diesel truck won’t move when you step on the gas pedal.
While the problem might be a faulty transmission, it can also be related to the engine or even the emergency brake. So you’ll want to ensure you find a reputable automotive service provider to diagnose the problem.
New-to-You Truck
Before buying any high-mileage used truck, it makes sense to get the transmission checked out. So in addition to getting any engine maintenance or 4×4 services performed, you shouldn’t overlook the transmission.
It’s a mistake to assume that the previous truck owner properly maintained the vehicle. If there are any claims to that effect, you should ask for service records listing the work done. And have a mechanic inspect the truck for you.
Burning Smell
If your transmission fluid is running low or is overheated, you might notice a burning smell. Transmission fluid usually has a sweet smell. But if it smells burnt, then you’ll want to get your transmission checked out.
Failing to take action will lead to serious problems due to a higher degree of friction among the components in the transmission.
Check Engine Light
You should never ignore a check engine light. Sometimes the issue is serious, and sometimes the issue is not that big a deal. But you won’t know the extent of the issue until you take your truck to an automotive repair facility.
If you see a check engine light, the problem could be your transmission. So once you see the check engine light on your dashboard, get it checked out.
Fluid Leaks
Any sign of fluid leakage under your truck is a cause for concern. You’ll want to figure out the source of the leak. Transmission fluid is often red in color. So if you see any red liquid under your truck, the transmission might need servicing.
Getting the problem fixed sooner rather than later is bound to save you a lot of money versus doing nothing and dragging your feet until things get worse.
Find the Right Service Provider
When you need transmission services for your truck, get in touch to learn how we can help. You’ll want your truck to be as reliable as it is sturdy and capable. Routine maintenance will ensure that it continues to perform reliably.
If you don’t properly service your truck’s transmission, you could eventually wind up with a costly repair or replacement bill. But you can avoid — or at least significantly delay — this issue if you regularly get your transmission serviced.
We’re here for you when you need us. Give us a call to set up an appointment.
