Diagnosing car problems was once based on a trial-and-error method until the issue was identified. Mechanics based a diagnosis on their own repair experience, the customer’s description of the problem, and mechanical symptoms, such as a smoking engine or fluid leaks. On-Board Computers Today, figuring out why a car is having problems is easier. A majority of the cars on the road have on-board computers that warn the driver of any mechanical problems, often through a light on the dashboard. Many car models now have specific lights for specific problems. Others may only have a “check engine” light. These warning lights often indicate a transmission problem. Car manufacturers are designing transmissions that interact with a car’s mechanical components. Computer-controlled transmissions work together with the computer-controlled engine to ensure the mechanical and electrical components are all working together properly. The warning light lets you know that something isn’t performing as it should, and that it’s time to take your car in for transmission diagnostics in order to avoid serious damage and higher repair costs. Diagnosing the Problem By gaining access to a car’s onboard computer system, a transmission technician can determine what problems are occurring. Here are some of the problems that can be identified through the diagnostic: - Overheating
- Shift pattern issues
- Electrical issues, which may be intermittent
- Gear slips
- Whether it is an actual mechanical problem or a computer issue, such as a sensor outage or malfunction
- Fluid leaks
- Solenoid problems
- Torque converter failure
Transmission problems don’t necessarily mean your car needs a new transmission. Diagnostics can more accurately pinpoint the transmission issues, which could save you from spending hundreds of dollars in unnecessary repairs. After the transmission diagnostics are completed, the transmission repair technician should provide you with the details of the repairs needed, along with the expected cost of those repairs.
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