The transmission in your vehicle sends the power to the drivetrain and enables it to accelerate and slow down by automatically changing gears. Like all mechanical systems, the transmission needs maintenance. According to Consumer Reports, the recommended intervals for changing transmission fluid depend on the vehicle and vary from every 30,000 miles to every 100,000 miles or more. When it needs more than maintenance done, a car transmission rebuild is in order. Here's a closer look at what a rebuild entails.

Removing and Disassembling the Transmission

A car transmission rebuild service involves a lot of labor that makes it hard to do for most home mechanics. The vehicle is raised enough to give access to the transmission, and a technician drains the fluid and secures the transmission to a transmission jack. Once the jack is in place, the technician will disconnect the transmission from the engine and drivetrain and lower it. Then the disassembly process removes the clutch and other parts. The technician will also remove all gaskets and seals to prepare everything for a close inspection.

Replacing Defective Parts and Components

Once the transmission is disassembled, the technician will examine each part and component for damage and excessive wear and tear. Any parts that are out of spec are replaced with new ones before assembling the transmission. The parts replacement process includes replacing all gaskets and seals to protect against leaking transmission fluid. All parts are cleaned and lubricated as needed before replacing them. The technician will use torque wrenches to make sure all connecting bolts are placed properly and aren't overly torqued, which might cause them the stretch or break.

Installing the Rebuilt Transmission

Once the transmission is rebuilt, a technician checks all the bolts to ensure they are torqued properly before installing the rebuilt transmission. The technician will use the transmission jack to lift the rebuilt unit into its appropriate position and carefully bolt it into place with a new gasket protecting against fluid leaks. The drivetrain is connected to the transmission, and the technician adds the appropriate amount of transmission fluid to complete the project. A test drive and final inspection ensure everything is ready so that you can pick up your vehicle and drive it with a completely rebuilt transmission that works perfectly.

Now you know more about the transmission rebuilding process. Do you need the help of an auto transmission mechanic? Call Shift Right Transmission & Auto Service to learn more, get an estimate, and schedule a rebuild service for your vehicle.