Atlas Transmission Blog

A healthy transmission helps ensure smooth gear changes. While your transmission is designed to be durable, certain driving habits can put unnecessary strain on it, leading to premature wear or failure. Many drivers aren’t aware that their daily routines and driving styles can gradually damage this expensive part of the car. Understanding how your actions behind the wheel impact the transmission can help you avoid costly repairs. Here are four common ways that drivers cause transmission issues. Neglecting Regular Fluid Changes Transmission fluid is essential for lubricating moving parts, cooling the system, and enabling smooth gear shifts. Over time, the fluid breaks down and becomes contaminated with debris and heat. Ignoring the recommended fluid change schedule allows dirty or low fluid to circulate, increasing friction and overheating the transmission. Without clean fluid, the transmission components begin to wear out more quickly, leading to performance problems and potential failure. Shifting Between Drive/Reverse without Coming to a Complete Stop Some drivers shift from reverse to drive or vice versa without coming to a complete stop. This sudden gear change puts serious pressure on the transmission system and can cause internal wear over time. It’s important to take the extra second to let your car fully stop before shifting between reverse and drive. Ignoring Warning Signs When a transmission starts to fail, it usually gives off warning signs such as slipping gears, delayed shifting, strange noises, or a burning smell. Some drivers ignore these symptoms in hopes that they’ll go away on their own. Unfortunately, delaying service often allows minor issues to become major ones. Addressing problems early can often prevent further damage and extend the life of the transmission. Driving with Low or Leaking Transmission Fluid Many drivers don’t check their transmission fluid level regularly, and some may overlook signs of a fluid leak. Low fluid levels reduce lubrication and cooling, which puts extra stress on the internal parts of the transmission. Even small leaks can eventually cause serious problems if not addressed in time. Continuing to drive with low or leaking fluid can cause the transmission to slip, overheat, or stop functioning entirely. Transmission Service in Tucson, AZ When you need transmission service in Tucson, AZ and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at  520-641-2026  . At our local transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Your vehicle’s transmission is essential for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. When transmission problems arise, they can lead to serious drivability issues and may cause increasingly expensive repairs if not addressed promptly. At Atlas Transmission, we provide expert transmission repair in the greater Tucson area. Here are four common transmission problems that should be fixed as soon as possible. Slipping Gears One of the most noticeable signs of a transmission problem is when your vehicle slips out of gear unexpectedly. Gear slipping can feel like a sudden change in power or a jolt, and it often indicates worn internal components or low transmission fluid. This issue can quickly become dangerous, especially if it happens while merging onto a highway, and should be addressed right away. Delayed or Rough Shifting If your transmission hesitates or jerks when shifting between gears, it's a sign something isn’t functioning correctly. You may notice delays when shifting from park to drive or reverse, or feel a thud when your transmission engages. These symptoms can point to problems with the transmission fluid, solenoids, or other parts. Left unchecked, rough or delayed shifting could potentially lead to further damage and eventual transmission failure. Unusual Noises Grinding, whining, or clunking noises coming from your transmission are clear warnings that something is wrong. These sounds often occur when there’s internal wear or insufficient lubrication. Grinding can suggest damaged gears, while whining may indicate fluid flow problems or a failing torque converter. Ignoring these sounds can lead to more severe and costly issues, so it's important to have them inspected by a professional as soon as possible. Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is essential for cooling, lubricating, and operating your transmission. If you notice reddish fluid leaking underneath your vehicle, it's a sign of a potential problem. Leaks can occur from seals, gaskets, or the transmission pan, and if not repaired, they can lead to dangerously low fluid levels. Running your transmission without enough fluid can cause it to overheat and fail, making leak repairs a top priority. Transmission Repair in Tucson, AZ For transmission repair in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at  520-641-2026  . At our local transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Your vehicle’s automatic transmission plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth acceleration and overall drivability. When it starts to develop problems, ignoring the warning signs can lead to costly repairs or even total transmission failure. Recognizing the early symptoms of transmission trouble can help you address issues before they escalate. At Atlas Transmission, we provide expert automatic transmission repair in the greater Tucson area. Here are four signs of an automatic transmission problem. Delayed or Slipping Gears If your vehicle hesitates when shifting gears or unexpectedly slips into another gear while driving, it’s a strong indication of a transmission problem. Gear slipping can feel like a sudden loss of power or like the engine is revving higher than normal without a corresponding increase in speed. This issue is often caused by low or degraded transmission fluid or internal damage to the transmission. Unusual Noises While in Gear A healthy transmission should operate quietly and smoothly. If you begin to hear grinding, whining, or clunking sounds while driving, it could signal internal transmission trouble. A whining noise often points to low or contaminated transmission fluid, while a grinding sound may indicate worn gears. If you hear a clunk when shifting from park to drive or reverse, there could be an issue related to the torque converter. Fluid Leaks Beneath the Vehicle Transmission fluid is essential for lubricating and cooling the internal components of the system. If you notice reddish puddles forming under your vehicle, there may be a transmission fluid leak. Leaks can develop from worn seals, a cracked transmission pan, or damaged fluid lines. A low fluid level can lead to overheating and serious transmission damage, so any leaks should be addressed as soon as possible. Burning Smell Coming from the Engine Bay A burning odor while driving is a warning sign that your transmission may be overheating. Overheated transmission fluid can degrade quickly, losing its ability to properly lubricate and cool the system. Ignoring this warning sign can result in severe internal damage. Automatic Transmission Repair in Tucson When you need transmission repair in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at  520-641-2026  . At our local transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

At Atlas Transmission, it’s our mission to earn our customers’ complete satisfaction by doing exceptional transmission work at fair prices. No matter how big or small the job, our local transmission mechanics will work meticulously to complete the work to the highest standards. And we appreciate it when our customers offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “I am beyond happy with the experience I had at Atlas Transmission. Although I got the devastating news my transmission was shot, everyone at Atlas was right there to help and guide me through the process. From start to finish they made it simple. My vehicle was towed in, they evaluated it the same day and diagnosed it. They started working on it after my approval and completed it within 3 days!!!! The professionalism, customer service, and quality of work was superb. I highly recommend them. Thank you for making an unfortunate situation as positive as possible. I am very happy with how well my truck is running! Feels like its new…” — Leah S. “I was very impressed and thankful with work and customer service. The owner Tony went above and beyond to make sure my 2500 Dodge was taken care of!!!! Great work and good people...Highly recommend them.” — George F. “Recently having moved from Texas, finding a reliable, trustworthy shop to work on my 69 Chevelle was a gamble. I came to Atlas Transmission and met Tony. I explained to Tony that after having installed new 355 gears, positraction, a new stage 2 700R4, and a brand new top end w EFI, I could not get my car to burn out! He got in the car with me, I told him to drive it like it was his. In minutes he said, “I know what you need.” A new torque converter that allowed my car to reach and optimize its power band. Fair pricing with excellent quality work. Tony’s team found an issue with my distributor cap and quickly repaired it as well. My build is finally done and running as intended. The car now lights em’ up on demand. Tony and team at Atlas Transmission are great people that will guide you to get the repair you need with excellent service. Thank you for putting the finishing touch on my car.” — Marco V. “Good shop with friendly staff. Made the ol' work truck run good as new with the transmission rebuild. Highly recommend.” — Ben T. “I had a transmission upgrade for towing a 14000 lb 5th wheel RV. 2017 Ram diesel 2500 tradesman. After a year I couldn't be more pleased. Transmission temperature never got above 160 over mountains, steep grades and stop and go traffic.” — Ellen W. Transmission Repair in Tucson, AZ When you need transmission repair in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at  520-641-2026  . At our nearby transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Your car's transmission fluid plays a crucial role in keeping the transmission system operating smoothly. It lubricates moving parts, prevents overheating, and enables seamless gear changes. When transmission fluid levels are low, it can lead to serious issues that may damage your vehicle if not addressed. At Atlas Transmission, we can expertly handle issues related to transmission fluid. Here are five signs that your car might be running low on transmission fluid. Delayed Gear Engagement One of the earliest signs of low transmission fluid is a noticeable delay when shifting gears. You might experience a lag between moving the gear selector and the transmission engaging. This delay can occur because the transmission lacks the hydraulic pressure it needs to operate efficiently. Ignoring this issue can lead to more severe transmission problems. Slipping Gears When transmission fluid levels are too low, the transmission may struggle to maintain the correct gear. This can cause the car to slip out of gear unexpectedly or fail to stay in gear while driving. Slipping gears can be unsafe, and are a sign that the transmission isn’t receiving the necessary lubrication and pressure to function properly. Overheating Transmission Transmission fluid helps to regulate the temperature of your transmission system by reducing friction and cooling its components. Low fluid levels can cause the transmission to overheat, leading to burning smells and reduced performance. An overheating transmission is a serious issue that can result in expensive repairs if not addressed promptly. Noises from the Transmission Unusual noises coming from the transmission—such as grinding, whining, or clunking sounds—can indicate that the fluid level is too low. These sounds often occur because the internal components of the transmission aren’t adequately lubricated, causing increased friction and wear. Transmission Fluid Leaks Visible fluid leaks are a clear sign that your transmission may be losing fluid. Transmission fluid is typically red or pink in color, but it can darken if it’s contaminated. If you notice puddles of fluid under your car, it’s essential to have the leak repaired and the fluid level restored. Driving with a leaking transmission can quickly lead to further damage. Transmission Service in Tucson, AZ When you need transmission service in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at  520-641-2026  . At our nearby transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Your vehicle’s transmission is essential for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. And proper maintenance is key to extending the life of your transmission and avoiding costly repairs. At Atlas Transmission, we provide expert transmission service in the greater Tucson area. Here are four tips to help you keep your transmission in healthy condition. Schedule Regular Transmission Fluid Checks and Changes Transmission fluid is vital for lubricating the moving parts, cooling the system, and enabling seamless gear shifts. But as the miles add up, the fluid can become contaminated or lose its effectiveness, putting your transmission at risk. Regularly checking the fluid level and replacing it according to your manufacturer’s recommendations is a simple and effective way to prevent damage. Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle Excessive weight puts additional strain on your transmission, especially in vehicles not designed for heavy hauling. Towing beyond your vehicle’s capacity or consistently overloading it can cause overheating and increased wear on transmission components. Stick to the recommended weight limits in your owner’s manual to protect your transmission from unnecessary stress. Proper Driving Techniques Driving habits have a significant impact on the health of your transmission. Avoid sudden starts, aggressive acceleration, and abrupt stops, as these can strain the transmission system. Also, if your vehicle has a manual transmission, make sure you’re shifting gears smoothly and not riding the clutch. Practicing gentle driving helps preserve your transmission. Address Signs of Transmission Trouble Immediately Ignoring transmission warning signs—such as slipping gears, delayed shifting, or unusual noises—can lead to more severe problems. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Catching and repairing minor issues early can save you from more extensive and expensive repairs in the future. Transmission Service in Tucson, AZ When you need transmission service in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at  520-641-2026  . At our nearby transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Transmission fluid plays a crucial role in the operation of your vehicle, keeping the transmission system lubricated and cool while ensuring smooth gear shifts. A transmission fluid leak can cause serious damage to the transmission. Catching a leak early is key to avoiding more expensive repairs and keeping your car in optimal condition. At Atlas Transmission, we provide expert transmission fluid leak repair in the greater Tucson area. Here are four signs that you may have a transmission fluid leak. Puddles of Reddish Fluid One of the most obvious signs of a transmission fluid leak is the presence of puddles of fluid underneath your vehicle. Transmission fluid is typically bright red when it's fresh, but as it ages, it can turn brown or dark. If you notice these fluid puddles/stains, it’s important to investigate further, as they can indicate a leak from the transmission. Slipping or Hesitating Gears If you’ve noticed your car hesitating or having difficulty shifting gears, it could be a sign that the transmission fluid is low due to a leak. Transmission fluid is essential for providing the necessary hydraulic pressure for smooth shifting. When fluid levels are low, you might experience a delay or difficulty in engaging gears, which is often referred to as "slipping." Grinding or Whining Noises A common sign of low transmission fluid caused by a leak is the sound of grinding or whining when the vehicle is in gear. When transmission fluid levels are low, the moving parts of the transmission rub against each other more harshly, which can cause friction and produce abnormal noises. If you hear these sounds when driving or shifting gears, it’s a sign that the transmission is not being properly lubricated, which could eventually lead to significant internal damage if not addressed promptly. Burning Smell or Overheating When transmission fluid is low due to a leak, your transmission can overheat. This happens because the fluid serves as a coolant for the transmission. Without enough fluid, the transmission components generate excessive heat, which can cause the fluid to burn. A burnt smell is a warning sign that the transmission is overheating and that there could be a fluid leak. Transmission Repair in Tucson, AZ When you need transmission repair in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at  520-641-2026  . At our local transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Healthy transmission fluid plays a critical role in ensuring your vehicle’s transmission operates smoothly by lubricating components, reducing friction, and cooling the system. However, transmission fluid can become contaminated, leading to a variety of issues. At Atlas Transmission, we can expertly address issues related to transmission fluid. Here are four signs that your transmission fluid might be contaminated. Discolored Transmission Fluid Healthy transmission fluid is typically bright red or pink. But if the fluid becomes contaminated, it can darken to a brown or black color, indicating that it has degraded or absorbed dirt, metal particles, or other contaminants. If you check your transmission fluid and notice that it has turned dark, it’s a strong sign that the fluid is contaminated and may need to be replaced. Burnt Smell Another telltale sign of contaminated transmission fluid is a burnt smell. When transmission fluid becomes dirty, it can overheat and lose its ability to properly cool and lubricate the transmission system. This leads to a burning odor, which suggests that the fluid has broken down and is no longer effective. If you detect a burnt smell, it’s important to have the fluid inspected and potentially flushed to prevent further issues. Slipping Gears Contaminated transmission fluid can cause difficulty in maintaining consistent pressure within the transmission system, which can result in gear slippage. You might notice the engine revving without a corresponding increase in speed, or your vehicle may struggle to stay in the correct gear. If your transmission is slipping, it’s crucial to have the fluid checked as soon as possible. Delayed or Rough Shifting If your transmission fluid is dirty or filled with particles, you may experience rough or delayed shifting when changing gears. Contaminated fluid can make it harder for the transmission to smoothly engage gears, leading to jerking motions or a noticeable delay when shifting from one gear to another. Transmission Service in Tucson When you need transmission service in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at  520-641-2026  . At our local transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Your vehicle’s transmission is one of its most critical components, enabling the engine’s power to be properly transferred to the wheels. When the transmission starts to malfunction, it can lead to serious driving issues or even total breakdowns. Catching early signs of transmission trouble can save you from more expensive repairs. At Atlas Transmission, we provide expert transmission repair in the greater Tucson area. Here are five common signs of a transmission problem. Slipping Gears If your vehicle unexpectedly changes gears while driving or struggles to stay in gear, this is a clear sign of transmission trouble. You might feel the car pop out of gear, or notice a sudden drop in power. Slipping gears can be dangerous as it can cause a loss of control while driving, so it’s important to address this issue right away. Delayed or Rough Shifting A healthy transmission should shift smoothly between gears. If you notice a delay when shifting gears—such as when going from park to drive—or if the shifting feels rough, this is a warning sign. Delayed or harsh shifting could indicate low transmission fluid, worn-out gears, or issues with the transmission control system. Unusual Noises Grinding, whining, and clunking noises are another common indication of transmission trouble. These noises may result from worn-out transmission parts, low transmission fluid, or more severe internal damage. Pay attention to any strange sounds, especially if they are new or occur more frequently when shifting. Transmission Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is essential for lubricating the moving parts of your transmission and enabling smooth operation. If you notice reddish fluid leaking from your vehicle, it could be transmission fluid. Transmission fluid leaks can lead to major damage, as low fluid levels cause excessive friction and overheating within the transmission. Burning Smell A burning smell while driving could indicate that your transmission is overheating. This is often due to old or insufficient transmission fluid, which can’t properly cool or lubricate the system. If you detect a burning odor, have your vehicle inspected immediately. Transmission Repair in Tucson, AZ For transmission repair in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at  520-641-2026  . At our local transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!