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At Bill DeFalco's Transmission Service we welcome your questions about transmission repair and the services we offer. Here are a few of the questions we regularly answer. If you don't see your questions, please feel free to contact us. We would be happy to answer any of your concerns.

What is involved in transmission repair?

Today's transmissions have computerized electronic systems or front wheel drive technology and are extremely complicated units.

In order to diagnose and repair transmission problems correctly special diagnostic equipment and a qualified transmission technician must be used. There are thousand's of parts in an average transmission. The transmission has to be removed from the vehicle, completely disassembled, all parts cleaned and inspected, worn or broken parts replaced, and the entire transmission reassembled with no room for error. The transmission must then be re-installed in the vehicle, and diagnostics reperformed. Finally the vehicle must be road tested.

Why do you have to run tests before giving me a price?

There is no way to be sure of what's wrong with your transmission until we do diagnostic testing and take a look inside. A transmission technician can give you an educated guess, but that's all it would be—just a possibility.

Transmission symptoms such as noises, leaks, or vibrations can signal a wide range of possible problems, not necessarily a single malfunction. Many transmission malfunctions can be caused by components outside the transmission such as a sensor, or even a simple fuse. The price difference between each malfunction varies dramatically. A lot of people price shop, which is completely understandable. You want to pay the best price for the service you are receiving. Wouldn't you like to know exactly what repairs are necessary, and pay for ONLY the repairs that are necessary?

If anyone ever tells you he can accurately diagnose your transmission problem over the phone and gives you a low-ball price, please get a second opinion before making an appointment.

Why should my vehicle's transmission fluid be serviced?

Transmission fluid suffers from heat, friction and electrochemical degradation. In fact, nearly nine out of ten transmission failures are due to overheating and fluid contamination.

Preventive maintenance every 12,000 - 18,000 miles is the key to insuring a longer life span of your transmission.

Still looking for more information to be a smart shopper? Here are some additional articles:

• Tips for dealing with transmission shops
• Facts about transmissions