Transmission Repair Services

Transmission Services in San Diego

At Ken's Auto Center, we understand the fear that often accompanies the mention of "transmission repair." Rest assured, there is hope. Whether you drive a manual or automatic vehicle, be it heavy-duty or low-range, your transmission plays a crucial role at the heart of your vehicle's drivetrain.

Responsible for translating the engine's power into forward motion, the transmission is a vital component. When issues arise with this critical part, it can permanently cripple your car. Fortunately, our seasoned experts possess extensive experience working on transmissions of all sizes and types.

Our competitively priced transmission services include:

Automatic Transmission
Automatic transmissions shift gears seamlessly, optimizing driving performance by adjusting gears based on various factors. These transmissions typically feature four to five forward gear ratios, along with a Reverse, Park, and Neutral gear. Shifting between gears occurs automatically once the car is in Drive, eliminating the need for a clutch pedal or manual gear shifting, as in a Manual Transmission.

Clutch
Your car's clutch serves the vital function of enabling the engine and gearbox to engage and disengage during gear changes. This process allows the engine's output shaft to keep spinning while relieving pressure on the gears, preventing them from shifting improperly.

Differentials
Another area of our specialized expertise is your car's differentials. Situated between your car's axles and positioned near the wheels, differentials are crucial for ensuring a smooth ride. As you navigate a corner, the outside wheel must travel a greater distance than the inside wheel. Without properly functioning differentials, both wheels would turn at the same rate, causing severe vibrations and making cornering a struggle. To preempt a transmission catastrophe, bring your vehicle in for a thorough checkup encompassing your transmission, clutch, and differentials. Contact us at 858-578-8200 or visit our transmission repair shop in San Diego, CA to schedule an appointment and ensure your car is in optimal condition.

Four-Wheel Drive Transmission
Four-wheel drive (4x4) vehicles boast differential gears, front and rear axles, and a transfer case connected to the transmission. The maintenance of four-wheel drive vehicles necessitates care for the transfer case, front and rear differentials, and transmission fluids. For top-tier service regarding your four-wheel drive transmission, visit us at 9555 Black Mountain Rd
Suite F & G.

Front-Wheel Drive Transmission
In front-wheel drive vehicles, the engine exclusively drives the front wheels. Power flows through the transmission to the final drive, then splits and propels the two front wheels through the drive axles. Front-wheel drive vehicles position the engine, transmission, and related components at the front of the car. For front-wheel drive transmission repairs, rely on Ken's Auto Center in San Diego, CA.

Manual Transmission
Manual Transmission vehicles involve the use of a clutch pedal and gear shift to manually change gears, determined by the vehicle's speed. Manual transmissions can encompass two to eight gears and are categorized into front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive configurations. Typically, manual transmissions require less maintenance than automatic ones.

Transfer Cases
A transfer case is a component of four-wheel drive systems in four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles. It receives power from the transmission and directs it to both front and rear axles. Transfer cases can be chain-driven in most contemporary vehicles. These components connect to the transmission, front and rear axles through drive shafts to ensure maximum control.

Transmission Replacement
In motor vehicles, the term "transmission" usually refers to the gearbox. The transmission employs gears and gear trains to transmit speed and torque from a rotating power source to another device. Vehicle owners can opt for the replacement of their car's transmission with a new, rebuilt, remanufactured, repaired, or used transmission.

Transmission Service, Diagnose and Repair
The transmission interfaces with key vehicle components and must function optimally for your safety. Transmission services include filter replacements and fluid drainage to prevent transmission damage.

Transmission Fluid FAQs

How often do you really need to change transmission fluid?

It's important to change your transmission fluid, but the type of transmission you have affects your ideal changing interval. Most cars on the road today have an automatic transmission. If you drive a car with an automatic transmission you need to change your transmission fluid every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. If your car has a manual transmission, it's recommended that you get the transmission fluid changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

What are signs that you need to change your transmission fluid?

The most obvious sign that it is time to change your transmission fluid is a warning light on the dashboard. Other signs may include the car's engine revving when you accelerate or go around corners, difficulty shifting, a chattering noise when you start driving, a slight burning smell or a puddle under your car. Like always, if you are uncertain about a noise, leak or feeling, we encourage you to bring your vehicle to us here at Ken's Auto Center in San Diego.

Does a car run better after transmission fluid change?

Yes. Changing your car's transmission fluid regularly is a great way to improve fuel efficiency. Your vehicle's transmission will run smoother after changing the fluid, which means your engine will perform better.

What is the average life of a transmission?

Regular fluid changes, filter replacements, and following a proper maintenance schedule are crucial for maximizing transmission life. Neglecting these can significantly shorten its lifespan. Most modern automatic transmissions, with proper maintenance, can last anywhere from 100,000 to 200,000 miles. Manual transmissions typically last longer, often exceeding 250,000 miles with good care.

Which type of transmission lasts the longest?

Opting for a manual transmission means simpler upkeep. They require less frequent servicing than automatics and aren't picky about specific oil types. Cars with stick shifts often enjoy a longer lifespan compared to their automatic siblings of the same model.

Discover More About Transmission Repair Services At Ken's Auto Center in San Diego

Undercar Services
Engine Repair Services
4X4 Services