TRANSMISSION'S LIFE 12

HOW TO EXTEND YOUR TRANSMISSION'S LIFE

Coaxing the maximum life out of your vehicle's transmission isn't difficult if you follow some simple yet proven advice. True, the transmission is one of the most expensive parts on a vehicle to fix or replace, but knowing how to take care of your transmission and what potential warning signs to watch for can help you realize years of trouble-free performance and big savings.

Maintenance intervals, driving style, vehicle make and manufacturer, and even geography where the vehicle is driven most frequently all can impact a transmission's life expectancy. Do you routinely stomp on the gas or tow heavy loads up and down mountains? If so, you're asking a lot from your transmission. While it’s impossible to predict exactly how many miles a transmission will last—some have gone more than 300,000—there are steps you can take to help prolong its life.

SIGNS YOUR TRANSMISSION MAY BE FAILING

Being a smart DIYer means knowing the warning signs associated with different problems (or knowing how to look it up online!) that often indicate a transmission isn't functioning properly. Taking corrective action now may help prevent a full-blown transmission failure later. Become the "transmission whisperer" and listen for these following signals that something may be wrong:

• Hesitation: A noticeable delay when the transmission shifts from one gear to the next, rough shifts between gears, or continually switches between gears.
• Discolored or burned-smelling fluid: Transmission fluid that's very dark and/or smells burned when you remove the dipstick to check it.
• An illuminated check engine light: Could be accompanied by a delay in shifting—use an on-board diagnostic (OBD) reader to determine what the trouble is.
• Strong odors: A burning odor when towing, carrying heavy cargo, or driving in hilly terrain could be the result of the transmission being overworked and overheating.

But that's not all! The transmission may be your problem when you notice:

• Slow acceleration
• Reduced fuel mileage
• Fluid leaks
• Grinding noises or shaking
• Whirring sounds when in neutral or in gear
• Slipping gears
• A dragging clutch (in manual transmissions)

GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR TRANSMISSION

Granted, no transmission lasts forever (though some try), but regular maintenance can keep your car on the road for many years and miles without ever experiencing any transmission problems. Ignore the maintenance, however, and an automatic transmission can fail in as few as 75,000 miles, leaving you with costly repairs, and in some cases, a voided warranty. A typical transmission service includes:

• Replacing the automatic transmission fluid (ATF) roughly every 40,000 miles, depending on the OEM's recommended schedule. Learn how to perform this relatively simple, inexpensive procedure yourself.
• Upgrading to a synthetic transmission fluid (if appropriate for the vehicle)
• Adjusting transmission bands every 60,000 miles (such as on an older car or heavy-duty pickup)
• Checking the fluid level often and refilling it to the proper level when it's low.
• Using the ATF specified by the vehicle manufacturer and never mixing different types of transmission fluids.
• Replacing the transmission filter or screen based on the vehicle manufacturer's mileage and/or time intervals.
• Cleaning the transmission pan's magnet(s) to remove metal fragments it has trapped.
• Using a transmission conditioning product to help restore performance and fix small leaks.

KEEPING YOUR TRANSMISSION IN TOP RUNNING CONDITION

With proper maintenance, most drivers can expect their transmissions to last well over the 150,000-mile mark and beyond. The key to longevity is spending a little money now on preventive maintenance, instead of a lot of money later on rebuilding or replacing the transmission.

What's the most mileage you've ever coaxed out of a transmission? What are your tips and tricks for extending transmission life?

Repair Front-Wheel Drive 11

DIAGNOSE AND FIX SUSPENSION PROBLEMS

Does your car tend to follow the grooves or crown of the road as you drive? Are you seeing uneven wear on your tires? Does the steering feel "heavy" and clumsy, like you're driving a loaded dump truck? Does the steering wheel not center itself readily after rounding a corner?

If so, you might have a problem with your suspension. Maybe you're getting your car ready for that planned summer road trip. Finding and fixing these often minor problems with tie rods, the idler arm, Pitman arm and/or the rack and pinion will save significant time and money over waiting for a more serious problem to occur.

WORN TIE ROD ENDS ALLOW WHEELS TO DRIFT

Drivers notice worn tie ends as the need to move your steering wheel left and right and constantly correct to keep it going straight down the road. The easiest way to verify that a particular end is worn is by raising and supporting the front end and squeezing the rod end with your hand. Some people will use Channellock-type pliers, but these will allow for excessive force to be applied. If you can squeeze the tie rod end more than one-eighth of an inch, it should be replaced.

It's easiest to check tie rod ends if you can get under the car to get a more comfortable grip on the rod end. Perform an external inspection. If the grease (Zerk) fitting is missing or the boot is torn or missing, replace it. Wrapping it with a rag will help keep your hands clean—for a little while, at least. Grip the tire front and rear and move it in and out while observing for motion in the assembly that is not reflected in the steering knuckle.

Tools You'll Need:

• Hammer
• Jack and stands or ramps
• Wrench set
• Wire cutters or pliers
• Adjustable wrench
• Pickle fork or front-end service set
• Small punch
• Blue Threadlocker
• Grease gun and grease

REPLACING A WORN TIE ROD END

The part on the left is a typical tie rod end on a rack and pinion car, while the one on the right is a typical tie rod end in a parallelogram steering system.

How a tie rod end is replaced will depend on whether your car has rack and pinion or a steering gearbox. In a rack and pinion system, there are two outer tie rod ends and two inner tie sockets (more on them later), whereas in a steering gearbox system, also known as parallelogram steering, there are two outer and two inner tie rod ends (See images in section above). First off, make sure the steering wheel is centered, and measure and make note of the distance between the inner sidewalls of both tires.

1. Block a rear wheel and raise and support the front end.

2. If applicable, remove the cotter pin locking the nut to the stud and remove the nut.

3. Separating the stud from the knuckle (or drag link) can often only require a few hard smacks with a hammer—it is usually easier to hit the side of the knuckle instead of the stud in order to separate. Otherwise you can use a specialty tool like a pickle fork or front-end service set to separate. Pickle forks will typically damage the boots of what you are trying to separate, so use the pullers in the front-end service set if you are planning to reuse any parts. Advance Auto Parts has these and other tools available in its loaner tool program.

4. Remove the old tie rod end one of two ways:

• With rack and pinion steering, the tie rod end is secured to the rack shaft with a locknut that must be loosened before the end can be spun off the shaft.
• With parallelogram steering, the nuts and bolts on the adjuster sleeve need to be loosened before the rod end can be spun out of the sleeve.

Note: Be sure to count the number of turns required to remove the rod end.

5. Spin the replacement rod end into the adjusting sleeve or onto the shaft. Be sure to use the same number of revolutions that were required to remove it.

6. Slide the stud into the knuckle or link and tighten the nut down.

7. Measure the distance between the tires.

8. If the before-and-after measurements are the same, you can tighten the lock nut or adjuster sleeve nuts and insert the cotter pin. Otherwise you'll need to adjust the shaft or sleeve a little. With parallelogram steering, you'll need to pop the stud loose again and turn only the tie rod end you replaced.

9. Grease any steering or suspension parts that have been replaced.

10. Lower the car and take it to a repair shop to have the alignment checked, because it's most assuredly going to be off.

Checking a Rack and Pinion Inner Tie Socket

An inner tie socket replaces the inner tie rod ends in rack and pinion steering, and they can wear out as well. To check them, raise and support the front end and block a rear wheel. Turn the steering wheel all the way to the right. Reach in behind the left front wheel and squeeze the boot on the end of the steering rack and have someone rock the steering wheel back and forth. If you feel movement in the rack before the rod shaft moves, the inner socket needs to be replaced.

Replacing an Inner Tie Socket

A typical inner tie socket on a rack and pinion.

The rack boot must come out first to replace the inner socket. Squeeze the ears on the clamps and slide them off the boot and push the boot to the end of the shaft, exposing the socket. From there it's straightforward:

1. The socket is secured to the rack with a pin that must be knocked out carefully. (See image above)

2. Use an adjustable wrench to clamp the rack shaft as you loosen and remove the socket assembly.

3. Following the instructions above, remove the outer tie rod end.

4. Remove the inner socket assembly.

5. Thread and lock down the new inner socket assembly.

6. Reattach the outer tie rod end, making sure to keep the same number of turns.

7. Slide the boot back in place and put the clamps back.

8. Check the measurement between the tires and adjust as needed.

9. Grease any steering or suspension parts that have been replaced.

Note: Use 2 to 3 drops of Blue Threadlocker

Safety Notes:

• Whenever you raise your car with a jack, always do so on a flat and level surface, such as in a garage or carport or at the curb, and never an inclined surface such as a driveway.
• Whenever working under your car or using impact tools such as a hammer, be sure to wear approved safety glasses.

Diagnosing Repairing Transmission 10

When problems arise in your automatic transmission, it’s very important that you know the proper steps of transmission troubleshooting. Otherwise, you could be guessing at a problem your transmission might not have, wasting both time and money to get it fixed. Knowing the exact cause of a transmission’s woes means you can get it repaired as quickly as possible and at minimal expense to you, which is ultimately what everyone wants. So of course, there are a few steps to follow when it comes to correct automatic transmission troubleshooting and we will explain the basics here.

The Basics of Automatic Transmission Troubleshooting

To perform automatic transmission troubleshooting as accurately and cost-effectively as possible, you should follow these steps in order before you decide to bring your car to the shop. If the problem is too advanced to fix yourself, pin-pointing the exact cause can still help to make repairs easier on you as well as the shop.

Step 1. Try to determine the problem first

Since you understand how your vehicle should feel and operate more than any other person, try to determine what the problem is firsthand. For example, look under your car for any leaks, shift between gears for any issues, or determine whether gears are slipping. Here’s a useful chart of common problems and what causes them:

Step 2. Check the transmission fluid

Checking the transmission fluid will be the next thing you’ll want to do, since the majority of transmission problems are caused by either low fluid levels or ineffective fluid. So, with that in mind, make sure you check both the levels and the fluid condition. If you don’t know how to check transmission fluid yet, here’s our useful tutorial on the process. Low fluid levels will mean that you’ll have to add more of the transmission fluid that is specified in the owner’s manual, while fluid that is contaminated, black, or burnt will require a complete fluid and filter change.

Step 3. Check on-board diagnostic codes

If the transmission fluid looks okay, or adding or changing the fluid hasn’t helped to solve the problem(s), the next step in automatic transmission troubleshooting is to check your car’s on-board computer for any OBD codes.

There are a few places that offers free scans such as AutoZone and Advance Auto Parts (you could even try repair shops around your area), although they will only provide you with the OBD codes that come up. You can also purchase your own OBD scanner if you are going to use it frequently, and a few good, reasonably priced ones include the Autel MaxiScan MS300 and the Actron PocketScan. There are even apps that you can use with an Android phone (e.g. Torque Pro).

If you are looking to find out what a specific OBD code is including repair advice, OBD-Codes.com offers lots of information on this topic.

Step 4. Refer to a repair manual or website

If no OBD codes pop up or you can’t find any solutions to it, what you’ll want to do next is refer to a repair manual or website for your particular vehicle’s make and model. Repair manuals often go much more in-depth although you’ll have to pay for them, and popular options include Haynes and All Data DIY. There are auto repair help websites online as well, which either offers free information (e.g. AutoMD, AutoZone) or consists of a question and answer forum (e.g. 10w40, RepairPal).

Step 5. Have a professional look at it

The last thing to do if all other transmission troubleshooting methods have failed is to have a professional transmission specialist look at your car. There are just some things that someone with more experience can help solve, and this is also recommended if a problem is too complicated to fix yourself. For a convenient service, we highly recommend YourMechanic, which not only provides you a free online repair quote instantly but also provides diagnostics and services right at your home or office. You can learn more about them here.

Diagnosis & Repair Help for Steering 9

Diagnosis & Repair Help for Steering

From keeping you safe on the road to making you comfortable behind the wheel, your steering and suspension play an important role every time you drive. Those steering and suspension components are among the most critical in your vehicle, and it is important to give them the care and consideration they deserve.

Whether you need a thorough inspection of your steering and suspension in preparation for a long road trip or a minor repair after hitting a Minnesota pothole, the automotive experts at Motor Works Auto are always here to help. At Motor Works Auto, we offer true factory level service at a price you can afford, and unlike your local dealership, we service all makes and models, including European imports.

Your Local Dealership Alternative

The quality of your steering and suspension is important to us, and it is just as important to us. At Motor Works Auto, we are your dealership alternative in the Central Minnesota region. We serve the entire region, and we offer expert steering system and suspension diagnostics and repairs for all types of vehicles.

From the smallest repairs to the largest overhauls, we can provide the steering and suspension system service you need. Whether your vehicle is no longer tracking straight or the suspension feels a bit spongy, just bring your car, truck or SUV to us for an expert diagnostic and the fastest repairs.

Helping You Survive the Winter – and the Spring

The winters in Central Minnesota are legendary, and the spring season can be just as bad. By the time the ice and snow have melted, the first potholes of the season have started to appear.

If you hit one of those potholes, you can easily damage your suspension, your steering, or both. When that happens, you can rely on the expert staff at Motor Works Auto to set things right. We will use our state of the art diagnostic equipment to find the source of your steering and suspension problems, and we will make repair recommendations to keep you safer on the road.

A Commitment to Customer Service

When you have a problem with your steering and suspension, you cannot afford to wait. From excessive play in the steering wheel to damaged struts and springs, these issues are more than just annoying – they can put your safety at risk.

If something does not seem right, just bring your vehicle to Motor Works Auto for a fast repair and expert diagnosis. From simple repairs to major issues, we have the expertise and experienced needed to fix even the most complex steering and suspension issues.

Steering & Suspension Diagnostics

Let Certified Automotive keep you in suspense. You’re suspension system helps you stay in control when you’re on the road. Certified Automotive can help ensure your safety by keeping your suspension system up to every twist and turn the road may bring.

• Shocks & Struts Warning Signs
• Fluid leaking out of the shock or strut body
• Shock or strut bodies are dented or damaged
• Mounts or bushings are broken or worn
• Cupped, uneven tire wear
• Vehicle sways or leans on turns
• Vehicle “nose dives” when you apply the brakes
• Excessive bouncing after hitting a road bump
• Harsh, bumpy or shaky ride
• Steering is stiff or makes noise

Stop in today for all of your steering and suspension needs!

We Are Steering & Suspension Repair Specialists for All Makes & Models

Steering stability and handling are heavily reliant on the performance of your suspension components. Worn suspension components will reduce the stability of your vehicle and the driver’s control.  Because suspension system components combine into one working unit, suspension issues that go untreated often increase the wear on other suspension components, resulting in more expensive repairs.

Symptoms of a failing steering and suspension system include:

• Noise when driving over bumps
• Vehicle bouncing
• Vehicle is hard to turn
• Uneven tire wear
• Excess “play” in steering
• Wandering wheels – vehicle doesn’t track in a straight line

The expert technicians at Southside Tire & Auto in Grand Rapids, MN, are specialists in repairing steering and suspension issues.  We’ll inspect your vehicle’s complete steering and suspension system, diagnose what’s wrong and then repair or replace the faulty components.

Our Steering & Suspension services include:

• Inspect Entire Suspension & Steering System
• Ball Joint Replacement
• Tie Rod Replacement
• Bushings Replacement
• Control Arm Replacement
• Stabilizer Bar Service & Repair
• Hub Bearing Replacement
• Wheel Bearing Replacement
• Shock Replacement
• Strut Replacement

• Coil Spring Replacement
• Air Spring Replacement
• Leaf Spring Repair
• Wheel Alignment
• Gear Box Repair
• Power Steering Pump Replacement
• Rack & Pinion Replacement
• Power Steering Fill & System Bleed
• Power Steering Hoses Replacement
• Power Steering Belt Replacement

Ready to schedule an appointment?  Give us a call at 218-326-0363 or fill out the Check for Available Service Time Form below.  After you submit the form, we’ll be in touch to schedule and confirm your service appointment.