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General Automotive Questions

Q: My vehicle isn't drivable, what should I do?

A:  Call your closest Best Western Transmission.  Our Service Writers can help evaluate your situation and arrange for towing if needed.  

Q: How do I tow my own vehicle?

A:  For vehicles with All Wheel Drive (AWD) can only be towed on a flat bed tow truck will all four (4) wheels off the ground.  Towing with 2 or 4 wheels on the ground will quickly cause more damage which will lead to an expensive repair.
To tow a vehicle with front wheel drive, it is strongly recommended that you not tow your vehicle with any wheels on the ground (using a tow bar, or pull behind tow), even if you disconnect the transmission.
Do not drive faster than 45 miles per hour.  You should limit the distance you take your car in tow. 

Q: Do you offer free towing?

A:  Yes, we offer free towing for qualifying repairs.  For complete information, please check our towing page.

Q: Do you offer a warranty?

A:  At most transmission repair shops you are lucky to get a one or two year warranty. Our standard warranty is 2 year/24,000 Mileage warranty that is honored nationwide through ATRA.  For more information, please see our Warranty page.

Q: How can I check my vehicle for fluid leaks?

A:  Discovering a leak early can help to avoid further damage to your transmission and save you a lot of money.  The ideal method for finding leaks is to park your vehicle on a clean, clear spot (putting cardboard underneath the vehicle will protect our garage or driveway).  The area should be level.  Twenty-four (24) hours later, look at where the vehicle has been parked to see if it is leaking fluid.

• Some Fluid colors when new or not abused:
• Red, Pink or Light Brown - Transmission Fluid
• Green or Orange - Engine Coolant
• Brown or Black - Engine Oil
• Light Brown - Power Steering Fluid
• Brown - Differential Fluid
  ​

A leak in any one of these systems is something that will not get better on its own and will affect the performance and safety of your vehicle.  if you are leaking anything, give the closest Best Western Transmission a call and we wil do all we can to help put you safely back on the road.

Q: What should I do if I am leaking transmission fluid?

A:  An automatic transmission fluid leak is not something to ignore.  The automatic transmission fluid serves to cool and lubricate.  With an automatic transmission, the fluid transfers power and provides necessary hydraulic pressure to operate the internal parts of the transmission.  All of these functions are affected when the automatic transmission fluid is leaking and is now low from that leak.  As the amount of transmission fluid goes down, your transmission will begin slipping which causes overheating.  This results in damage to the transmission and could ultimately require a major repair to enable the transmission to function properly.  If there is a leak, small or large, give the closest Best Western Transmission a call, and we will do all we can to help put you safely back on the road, by giving you the honest advice you need.

Q: My engine light has come on, is this something that needs immediate attention?

A:  If the engine light comes on, it needs to be checked.  The engine light is advanced warning from the vehicle's computer system.  Initially, it may be a simple problem.  However, if you ignore it, what may have been a simple repair may become a major one.  You shouldn't ignore this light and have it checked as soon as possible.  At Best Western Transmission, we will check the codes on your vehicle for no charge as part of our free External Diagnostic Inspection.

Q: What dashboard lights need immediate attention and which ones aren't as critical?

A:  When you first start your vehicle, all the dashboard lights come on as a safety test.  All the lights should go off when the test is complete. You should check your owner's manual to make sure you are familiar with what each warning light represents.  If any of the following lights are one, you should have your vehicle checked as soon as possible:  Engine light, Oil light, ABS light, Traction light, SRS (airbag) and Tire Pressure Light.  Having your vehicle checked when you see any of these lights is important for safety, and also to prevent the need for a costly repair.  At Best Western Transmission, we will check the codes on your vehicle for no charge as part of our free External Diagnostic

Q: I hear an occasional noise from the front of my car. Do I need to worry about it?

A:  A noise is a warning of a possible problem.  Every noise should be checked by a qualified technician.  If a noise is left unchecked, it can lead to bigger problems and larger, more expensive repairs.  Or, you could be left stranded on the side of the road.  Schedule an appointment to bring in your vehicle in to the nearest Best Western Transmission and have it checked by one of our technicians with a no charge External Diagnostic Inspection.

Diagnostics

Q: What do you check in your "External Diagnostic Inspection?"

A:  Call your closest Best Western Transmission.  Our service writers can help evaluate your situation and arrange for towing if needed.  

Q: Some local parts stores will "pull codes" for free, why should I come to you instead?

A:  While parts stores may have the equipment to "pull codes" from your vehicle's computer, this does not mean they have the expertise to interpret the code.  Computer codes only give a starting point of where to look for a problem.  It takes a skilled technician to interpret the code and know where to look for and isolate what actually needs repair.  You can save yourself time and money by coming to your closest Best Western Transmission and having a no charge External Diagnostic Inspection performed. 

Q: How can I Diagnose Differential Noises?

A:  You may hear many different types of sounds that indicate a problem with your differential.  Some of the possible sounds you may hear:
​

• "whirring" noise only while decelerating at any or all speeds
•  "howl" or "whine" during acceleration
• "rumbling" or "whirring" only when driving over 20 mph
• regular "clunking" every few feet
• "clunking" only when turning corners
• "rumble" when turning
• "clunking" sound but only when starting to move

There are many parts to your vehicle's differential system.  These sounds can be caused by problems with your pinion bearings, carrier bearings, ring and pinion gears, improper gear set up, backlash, spider gears, positraction lubrication and clutches, wheel bearings, u-joints, transfer case, or transmission parts.
Sound complicated?  It is.  Make an appointment and bring your vehicle in to for a no charge External Visual Inspection by one of our experienced and trained technicians.

Q: Diagnosing Differential Vibrations

A:  You may feel your car handling differently which may indicate a problem with your differential.  Some of the problems you may feel:

• "rumble" when turning
• steady vibration that increases with speed

There are many parts to your vehicle's differential system.  These vibrations can be caused by problems with your pinion bearings, carrier bearings, ring and pinion gears, improper gear set up, spider gears, posi-traction lubrication and clutches, wheel bearings, u-joints, transfer case, or transmission parts.
Bring your vehicle to the closest Best Western Transmission where you can have it inspected by experienced and trained technicians at no charge to you with our External Diagnostic Inspection.

Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Q: How can I check my vehicle for transmission fluid leaks?

A:  Discovering a leak early can help to avoid further damage to your transmission and save you a lot of money.  The ideal method for finding leaks is to park your vehicle on a clean, clear spot (putting cardboard underneath the vehicle will protect our garage or driveway).  The area should be level.  Twenty-four (24) hours later, look at where the vehicle has been parked to see if it is leaking fluid.

• Some Fluid colors when new or not abused:
• Red, Pink or Light Brown - Transmission Fluid
• Green or Orange - Engine Coolant
• Brown or Black - Engine Oil
• Light Brown - Power Steering Fluid
• Brown - Differential Fluid
  
  

A leak in any one of these systems is something that will not get better and will affect the performance and safety of your vehicle.  If you are leaking anything, give the closest Best Western Transmission a call  and we will do all we can to help put you safely back on the road.

A transmission leak is not something to ignore.  The transmission fluid serves to cool and lubricate.  With an automatic transmission, the fluid transfers power and provides necessary hydraulic pressure to operate the internal parts of the transmission.  All of these functions are affected when the transmission fluid is leaking and is now low from that leak.  As the amount of transmission fluid goes down, your transmission will begin slipping which causes overheating.  This results in damage to the transmission and could ultimately require a major repair to enable the transmission to function properly.

At Best Western Transmission, we can put your vehicle on a rack to check for dampness which would indicate a new leak.  If there is a leak, small or large, give the closest Best Western Transmission a call, and we will do all we can to help put you safely back on the road, by giving you the honest advice you need.

Q: What should I do if I am leaking transmission fluid?

A:  An automatic transmission fluid leak is not something to ignore.  The automatic transmission fluid serves to cool and lubricate.  With an automatic transmission, the fluid transfers power and provides necessary pressure to the internal parts of the transmission.  All of these functions are affected when the automatic transmission fluid is leaking and is now low from that leak.  As the amount of transmission fluid goes down, your transmission will begin slipping which causes overheating.  This results in damage to the transmission and could ultimately require a major repair to enable the transmission to function properly.  If there is a leak, small or large, give the closest Best Western Transmission a call, and we will do all we can to help put you safely back on the road, by giving you the honest advice you need.

Q: How do I check the level of automatic transmission fluid (ATF)?

A:  Always consult your owner's manual first.  Your owners manual will tell you where to find, and how to read the dipstick, as well as the proper procedures for checking your vehicle's transmission fluid.  If you have lost your owner's manual or are unable to read your ATF dipstick, give the closest Best Western Transmission a call.  We'll give you the best advice possible.
In general, to check the automatic transmission fluid (ATF), the vehicle must be on a level surface with the engine running and the transmission at normal operating temperature.  When you read the dipstick, the engine should be running, and the emergency brake should be engaged, and the shift selector in "park."
Here are a few (but not all) exceptions:

• Honda - most Hondas with the short dipstick should be checked NOT running and in "park."
• Most Chryslers are checked in "park", with the exception of minivans, which are checked in "neutral."
• Some vehicles do not have a dipstick at all and must be checked by a qualified technician.

The safest and most convenient option is to bring your vehicle to Best Western Transmission where our team of technicians know how to check all kinds of vehicles.  This is a service we do at no cost for our customers.

Q: Is it bad if the level of my automatic transmission fluid is too high or too low?

A:  Too high? - A fluid level reading extremely above the full mark means your fluid may be too high.  This may cause a churning action as the gears inside your transmission rotate, turning the fluid into foam which can accelerate oxidation and introduce air into the oil.  Ultimately, transmission pressure may be affected causing transmission damage.  It can also cause your transmission to overheat, which may lead to venting, or cause damage to the seals.  Overheating can also cause damage to hard parts (such as gear sets and carriers) inside the transmission.  If these parts are damaged, it will increase the cost of a typical overhaul because the hard parts don't normally need repair or replacement.
Too low? - A fluid level reading below the add mark means your fluid is too low. This could cause transmission pressures to drop too low to have enough fluid reach the moving gear train components.  This usually indicates a transmission fluid leak somewhere in the transmission and may result in transmission damage.  Low fluid can also lead to slipping clutches, which can lead to overheating damage and premature wear.  Overheating can also cause damage to hard parts (such as gear sets and carriers) inside the transmission.  These hard parts don't normally need repair in a typical transmission overhaul, which leads to a more costly repair.
If the automatic transmission fluid in your car is not at the proper level, visit your closest Best Western Transmission location.  In either case, have your transmission checked out as soon as possible.  It is very important, and may minimize the damage to your transmission.  Our External Diagnostic Inspection can answer many questions and is at no charge to you.

Q: What should my automatic transmission fluid look like?

A:  Look at the fluid on the dip stick to determine its condition.  Normal is clear, red, or a light brown color.  Cloudiness may indicate your automatic transmission fluid is getting "tired" and needs to be changed.  If your ATF if contaminated with suspended metal or friction particles, this indicates wear and tear on the components of your transmission.  Burnt fluid indicates damage from overheating or slipping.  Fluid contaminated with water often indicates a transmission oil or radiator cooler problem.
If the transmission fluid in your car is not in the proper condition, visit your closest Best Western Transmission location.  In either case, have your transmission checked out as soon as possible.  It is important, and may minimize the damage to your transmission.  Our External Diagnostic Inspection is free and can answer many questions you may have about the current condition of your vehicle

Q: When should I NOT change my transmission fluid or have a flush done?

​A:  Before draining or flushing, you should pull the dip stick and look at the condition of the fluid.  If it is dark, smells burnt, or you see little flakes or specks in the fluid, DO NOT FLUSH IT.  Friction material has come off the clutch disks and bands and is suspended in your fluid.  Those floating particles provide the only friction, which your transmission needs to operate.  Flushing fluid in that condition and replacing it with new, clean fluid may cause your transmission to fail at any moment possibly leaving you stranded on the side of the road.

Q: How do I change automatic transmission fluid?

A:  For slightly more than the cost of a motor oil change, an automatic transmission fluid change may be the best companion your automatic transmission has.  Your automatic transmission relies heavily on the level, temperature, and condition of its fluid, which serves to cool and lubricate.  With automatic transmissions, the fluid also transfers power and provides necessary pressure to the internal parts of the transmission.  Automatic transmission fluid must be checked and regularly changed.  Have your transmission fluid changed at the scheduled intervals according to your owner's manual.  Most recommend every 24,000 miles.  Where possible, the filter should be replaced as well.

Q: How often should I change my automatic transmission fluid?

Are you towing a trailer, going up and down mountains, overloading the car and spending time in temperatures above 90 degrees?  Are you driving a recreational vehicle?  At risk vehicles need more frequent automatic transmission fluid changes and possibly an auxiliary cooler.  A trained Best Western Transmission technician is an expert in transmissions and will ensure the job is done right.

Q: Is my vehicle considered high-risk and may need the automatic transmission fluid changed more frequently?

A: Your vehicle is considered high-risk for overheating the transmission and when you tow trailers or boats, go up and down mountains, overload the vehicle, and spend time driving in temperatures over 90 degrees.  If your vehicle frequently experiences these conditions, the transmission fluid should be changed more often, every 15,000 miles.  In addition to changing your transmission fluid more frequently, you may want to consider installing an auxiliary cooler.

Q: What is the difference between regular and synthetic automatic transmission fluid?

A: Synthetic ATF costs more than regular ATF, but it is far superior.  Synthetic ATF remains fluit to extreme cold temperatures.  Regular and synthetic ATF are compatible with each other.

Q: Do I need a different type of automatic transmission fluid and filter if I have a 4 wheel drive vehicle?

Transfer cases and differentials in four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive vehicles sometimes require specialized fluids, such as Honda Dual Pump-II, Honda VTM-4, Jeep Quadra-Trac, etc.  Contact us for more information.

Q: What does it mean if my automatic transmission has "vented?"

​A: Venting is usually caused by the transmission overheating.  The fluid gets too hot and has too much pressure, and the only place for the pressure to escape is through the vent.  Usually, this means a lot of transmission fluid has been lost at one time.  Do not continue to drive your vehicle.  Have your vehicle towed to your nearest Best Western Transmission for a no charge External Diagnostic inspection and repair services.

Q: How is your "POWERFLUSH" different than a typical automatic transmission fluid change?

​A:  Best Western Transmission's "Powerflush" is the only flush where 100% of the automatic transmission fluid is replaced.  We also replace the filter.  You wouldn't do an engine oil change without replacing the filter, but if the filter on the transmission isn't replaced, you can leave up to 30% of the old fluid behind, shortening the life and value of your automatic transmission fluid change.  For an in depth explanation of the differences between different methods of changing automatic transmission fluid, go to our page on the Powerflush.

Automatic Transmissions

Q: What are common signs of an automatic transmission problem?

• Transmission won’t engage or stay in gear
• Shifts are delayed or missing gears
• Transmission slipping or engine is revving high
• Transmission fluid is leaking
• There is a burning smell
• There is buzzing, clunking, humming noise
• Car has no power
• Check Engine Light or Over Drive Light is on

Q: What is the problem when my automatic transmission delays going into gear?

A:  Your automatic transmission was designed to work smoothly and without hesitation.  If you are experiencing a delay before a gear is engaged, your transmission is likely malfunctioning.  Any one of the following reasons could cause your transmission to delay going into gear:
The problem can be cause by an external part that needs adjusted or replaced.  It may be an electronic control hindrance.  There could also be a problem with the transmission fluid level which may be low because of leakage.  These could potentially require only minor repairs.
If your automatic transmission has been overheated or the transmission fluid has become contaminated, internal parts may be damaged.  If this is the case, the transmission may need to be disassembled and rebuilt.  This would be a major repair.
Whatever the cause might be, transmissions never fix themselves.  Transmission problems always become worse with time, so having the problem fixed immediately will cost you less.  Timely repairs are beneficial to you in terms of time.  Call your closest Best Western Transmission, or make an appointment, and ask for an External Diagnostic Inspection.  Remember, it will not cost you anything to find out what needs to be done, and if you live in Colorado Springs or Fort Collins, we are just around the corner.

Q: What is the problem when my automatic transmission makes noise?

A:  Sometimes transmission noise is from an external part, which may or may not be your transmission.  Other times, it is an internal problem.  If you are hearing a noise in your transmission, have it checked as soon as possible by a qualified Best Western Transmission technician.  When everything is in place and working properly, an automatic transmission makes no noise.  The longer you drive a car with noise in the transmission, the more damage you can cause to the internal or external parts.  Best Western Transmission  performs an External Diagnostic Inspection to get to the bottom of your transmission problems.  The External Diagnostic Inspection won't cost anything.  Taking care of the problem early could save you money, time, and the inconvenience of having your car break down on the side of the road.  The best advice is to drive to the Best Western Transmission location nearest you as soon as possible.

Q: What is the problem when my automatic transmission slips out of gear?

A:  If your automatic transmission is slipping, something is wrong and you need to have a trained technician evaluate the problem.  An External Diagnostic Inspection is your best bet, and remember, it doesn't cost you anything.  A transmission is designed to hold effortlessly in any gear.  If the automatic transmission is slipping out of gear, something has gone wrong with the external controls, the internal parts, or the electronic controls of the transmission.


External controls sometimes need adjustment or replacement.  This is considered to be a minor repair.  If the problem is internal, it could be something as easy as a low fluid level and insufficient pressure.  A slipping transmission will only get worse, and may leave you stranded and in need of a tow a long way from home.  Call Best Western Transmission as soon as you notice the problem.  This may not only minimize the damage to your transmission and potentially save you money on a repair; but also gives you the peace of mind you need when traveling.  The best advice is to see a Best Western Transmission location nearest you as soon as possible.

Q: What is the problem when my transmission won't go into gear?

A:  If your transmission is not going into gear, you have a transmission problem.  You will probably need to be towed to your local Best Western Transmission where the transmission will need to be examined for the cause.  If your vehicle can still be driven, and you do not want it towed, drive directly to your local Best Western Transmission center for an External Diagnostic Inspection.  Remember this service never costs you anything.


When a transmission will not go into gear, various components of the transmission system are not functioning properly.  The problem may be one of a few possibilities such as an external control needing adjustment or replacement.  This is considered to be a minor repair.  Before damage becomes worse, and to avoid being left with a vehicle that won't operate and is not safe; see your closest Best Western Transmission for an External Diagnostic Inspection.  It won't cost you anything.

Q: What kind of damage does overheating the transmission typically cause?

Without enough ATF to remove the heat, the temperature can skyrocket past 260-degrees, resulting in a slipping transmission, along with serious damage to the clutches, bands, and torque converter.

Q: What is the problem when my transmission loses a lot of fluid at one time?

A:  If your car loses a lot of transmission fluid at one time, it is usually because the transmission has overheated and the transmission fluid has vented.  Do not attempt to continue to drive your vehicle.  Call your closest Best Western Transmission and they will help you arrange to tow your vehicle.

Q: How do I know if I need a rebuilt automatic transmission, or if there is a less-expensive option?

​A:  Bring your car in for diagnosis.  You may not need a rebuild, it may be a smaller repair.  A large percentage of vehicles brought in with the customer thinking it needs an overhaul actually turn out to be a minor repair like transmission mounts, cellanoids, and broken wires, or a repair unrelated to the transmission.  Qualified technician.

Q: How do I know if I should Rebuild or buy Re-manufactured?

A:  It is generally less expensive to rebuild.  Rebuilding uses your factory installed original transmission, which is guaranteed to fit.  Additionally, some makes and models have the VIN stamped on the transmission (like Honda), so it never makes an alteration to the vehicle.  Another advantage of rebuilding is it is easier to resolve warranty issues.  Best Western Transmission stands by our warranty and will prioritize any warranty work when necessary.  With re-manufactured, you often have to fight to have the warranty honored.

Q: What services are done with a typical automatic transmission rebuild?

A:  Thorough Cleaning - Every transmission is completely disassembled, thoroughly cleaned and inspected.  All parts are inspected for contaminants that result in premature wear to gears, bearings, shafts and other precision components.  Transmission cleaning includes washing individual components by pressure washer or by hand when necessary.  Parts are carefully inspected and bushings are replaced to insure proper clearance.

New Parts - For every transmission rebuild, Best Western Transmission receives a standard set of new parts.  Our technicians automatically install new friction clutch plates, sprags, bearings, ??races, bushings, washers, filter or screen assembly, gaskets and seals.  Our standard parts replacement assures smooth, consistent performance and long unit life.  Our transmissions are assembled by trained technicians who specialize in automatic transmissions. 

Road Testing - Before your vehicle is returned to you, our technicians and our shop foreman will road test your vehicle to ensure it is functioning properly and performing correctly.  They make sure your safety is never compromised and you're back on the road where you belong.

Q: Why does an automatic transmission repair cost so much?

A:  Today's automatic transmissions, particularly those with front wheel drive technology, overdrive, all wheel drive or computerized systems are extremely complicated units.  There are over 3,000 parts in today's average transmission. 

If a repair deal sounds just too good to be true; sadly, it probably is.  Many other shops do not do a complete rebuild.  At Best Western Transmission, we replace all internal seals, gaskets, friction materials, sprags, bushing, cellinoids, and clutches with every transmission rebuild.  Initially, this my make our cost slightly higher than other shops, but it significantly reduces the chances you will need another rebuild.  When the other shops do not replace these parts, they are gambling that your transmission will not break down during their shorter warranty period.  At Best Western Transmission, our motto is not just empty words, we "do it right the first time."
Always remember that minor problems now become major problems later.  Transmission problems do not go away on their own.  For the best transmission service available, visit your closest Best Western Transmission service center for an External Diagnostic Inspection.  This service is free!  Transmission repair in Colorado Springs and Fort Collins is just around the corner.

Q: Do you offer a warranty on your work?

A:  We offer a 2 Year / 24,000 mile warranty standard, which is also honored nationwide.  Please review our warranty page for additional information.

Q: Is my vehicle considered high-risk and may need extra care?

A:  Your vehicle is considered high-risk for transmission damage when you tow boats or trailers, or subject your vehicle frequently to difficult conditions such as frequent mountain driving, using 4 wheel drive for sport, or driving in temperatures over 90 degrees.  To reduce the risk, you should change your automatic transmission fluid more frequently, every 15,000 miles.  You may also want to consider installing an auxiliary transmission cooler.

Q: What can I do to help reduce wear or strain on my transmission when I am towing a trailer, boat, or subjecting my automatic transmission to other difficult conditions?

​A:  First, you should change your automatic transmission fluid more frequently, every 15,000 miles.  Second, you should consider installing an auxiliary transmission cooler.  Heat is the number one enemy of your transmission, and the transmission cooler is a small investment to protect the most expensive component of your vehicle.  Third, don't forget to turn off your overdrive when you are towing under city driving conditions.

Q: How does a transmission cooler help extend the life of my transmission?

A:  An auxiliary transmission cooler helps reduce stress on the transmission by keeping the temperature of its fluid down.  Heat is the number one enemy of a healthy transmission and reducing the temperature w will reduce overheating and prevent damage such as warping inside your transmission, which requires an expensive transmission overhaul.

Q: Will it damage my vehicle to drive too long on a "donut," undersized spare tire, or mismatched tires?

A:  A "donut" spare tire is designed for emergency use, just enough to get you to the nearest service center.  These tires are not designed for heat, cornering, high speeds.  Driving on a tire that is not the correct size can quickly lead to expensive transmission damage.
If the wheels are different sizes, they will spin at different speeds.  The differential inside your transmission was not designed for this and will overheat.  Trying to save money in the short term by delaying repair of your tire or buying mismatched tires will lead to a more expensive transmission overhaul.

Manual Transmission Fluid 

Q: How can I check my vehicle for manual transmission fluid leaks?

​A:  Discovering a leak early can help to avoid further damage to your transmission and save you a lot of money.  The ideal method for finding leaks is to park your vehicle on a clean, clear spot (putting cardboard underneath the vehicle will protect our garage or driveway).  The area should be level.  Twenty-four (24) hours later, look at where the vehicle has been parked to see if it is leaking fluid.

• Light Brown - Manual Transmission Fluid
• Green or Orange - Engine Coolant
• Brown or Black - Engine Oil
• Light Brown - Power Steering Fluid
• Brown - Differential Fluid

A leak in any one of these systems is something that will not get better and will affect the performance and safety of your vehicle.  if you are leaking anything, give the closest Best Western Transmission a call  and we will do all we can to help put you safely back on the road.

A transmission leak is not something to ignore.  The transmission fluid serves to cool and lubricate.  With a manual transmission, the fluid transfers power and provides necessary pressure to the internal parts of the transmission.  All of these functions are affected when the transmission fluid is leaking and is now low from that leak.  As the amount of transmission fluid goes down, your transmission will begin slipping which causes overheating.  This results in damage to the transmission and could ultimately require a major repair to enable the transmission to function properly.  If there is a leak, small or large, give the closest Best Western Transmission a call, and we will do all we can to help put you safely back on the road, by giving you the honest advice you need.

Q: How do I check the level of my manual transmission fluid?

A:  Checking the level and condition of manual transmission fluid is more difficult than an automatic transmission because it does not have a dipstick.  Generally, you must remove the fill plug insure the fluid level is at the same height as the fill plug.  Without a lift, it is a difficult and often dirty procedure.  Don't work harder than you have to.  Bring your vehicle in to your closest Best Western Transmission where our experienced technicians will check the level and quality of your manual transmission fluid for free

Q: Can I change my own manual transmission fluid?

***

Q: Is it bad if the level of my manual transmission fluid is too high or too low?

If you have noticed that your transmission fluid level is higher than the indicator on the dipstick, you might think that too much of the fluid is better than a low level and decide to do nothing.  However, in regards to your transmission fluid, too much of a good thing is bad. When you have too much fluid flowing through the transmission, the excess fluid can have adverse effects on your vehicle, as well as affect your ability to drive.  Too little transmission fluid is definitely a problem.  Contact us if your transmission fluid is too low or too high.

Q: What should my manual transmission fluid look like?

Healthy transmission fluid should be relatively clear or pink in color. If your transmission fluid is deep red or brown, your transmission fluid is old and most likely causing extra damage within your transmission. If it is dark brown, that is a sign you have burnt transmission fluid from overheating.

Q: How often should I change my manual transmission fluid?

Most vehicle manufacturers recommend a transmission fluid change between every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. The problem is fluid contamination which occurs over time as the synchronizers, bearings and gears in the transmission wear out. The resulting metal particles then float around in the lubricant. Oil that contains microscopic particles of metal does not lubricate as well as clean oil. So if these contaminants are not drained out, they will shorten the life of your transmission. 

Manual/Hydraulic Clutch

Q: What are common indicators of a manual transmission problem?

A:  Common indicators of a manual transmission problem include slipping, chattering, grabbing, clutch not releasing, clutch release stroke is too long, making noise, and the clutch pedal feels hard.
When a manual transmission will not go into gear, various components of the clutch system are not functioning properly.  The problem may be as simple as an external control needing adjustment or replacement, which would be a minor repair.  Continuing to drive a with transmission problems only makes them worse and the repair more expensive.  To avoid being left with a vehicle that won't operate and is not safe make an appointment to visit your closest Best Western Transmission for an External Diagnostic Inspection.  It won't cost you anything.

Q: How do I know if my synchros need replacing?

​A:  It is not unusual for a customer to bring in their vehicle believing their synchros are bad and need replacing.  In our experience, it isn't always the synchros causing a problem, but it could be another part like the fork or clutch.  You don't need to spend time or money guessing.  Make an appointment and bring your vehicle in to the experts at Best Western Transmission.  With our free External Diagnostic Inspection we can help you understand what really needs repair.

Q: What is included in a typical manual transmission repair?

​A:  Complete clutch repair means determining the cause of the damage, fixing the problem and replacing all worn or damaged clutch system components.  Replacement of all worn clutch system components is necessary to ensure the full service life of the clutch assembly.  It is also an inexpensive insurance against recurring problems.