Go Time Auto Repair

Transmission diagnostics in Plantation

You find out what is actually wrong before you spend money on a repair. A slip, a late shift or a warning light can come from many causes, and some of them are small, simple fixes. We scan the computers, road test the car and inspect it on the lift, then explain what we found in plain words with a written price.

Typical time in the bay
a few hours; a problem that only shows up hot can take longer
How the price works
In writing, first

Transmission diagnostics

  • Scan the engine and transmission computers for stored codes, and watch live data while it runs
  • Road test the car the way you drive it, to feel the slip, shudder or bad shift ourselves
  • Check the fluid level, color and smell, and look for metal or clutch material in it
  • Inspect on the lift for leaks and for damaged wiring, connectors and mounts
  • Test solenoids and circuits when a code points to the electrical side
  • Rule out problems that only feel like the transmission, like an engine misfire or a worn mount
  • Explain what we found in plain words, with photos and a written price

Signs you need this

  • The check engine light or transmission warning light is on
  • Shifts feel late, harsh or slippery
  • The engine revs but the car does not pick up speed
  • A delay when you shift into Drive or Reverse
  • A shudder, clunk, whine or buzz you did not have before
  • Red or brown fluid spots under the car
Chevrolet Colorado on the lift with the exhaust and driveshaft out for transmission work
Chevrolet Colorado on the lift with the exhaust and driveshaft out for transmission work

The diagnostic comes first. You approve the diagnostic fee before we start, and we tell you up front whether it is applied to the repair if you go ahead. Then you get the repair price in writing, with sales tax on parts only, never labor, and your pick of warranty length: 90 days, 1 year or 2 years.

Questions people ask

Can a transmission problem turn on the check engine light?
Yes. On most modern cars a computer watches the transmission, and many faults set a code and turn on the check engine light. Some cars also have a separate transmission warning light. A scan is the first step to finding out why it is on.
My car is stuck in one gear. What does that mean?
Many cars go into a fail-safe mode, often called limp mode, when the computer sees a serious problem. The transmission holds one gear so you can get somewhere safe. Get it checked soon and skip long drives until then.
Why not just read the code at a parts store?
A code tells you which circuit complained, not why. A shift solenoid code can mean a bad solenoid, a damaged wire, a corroded connector, low fluid or a problem inside the transmission. Replacing parts from a code alone is how people end up paying twice.
Is it always the transmission?
No. An engine misfire can feel like a shudder, and a worn engine or transmission mount can make a normal shift feel like a clunk. We work on the whole car, not only transmissions, so we have no reason to blame the transmission when the problem is somewhere else.
What should I bring when I drop off my car?
Your keys and a clear description of the problem: when it happens, how long it has been going on and any warning lights. Records of past transmission work or fluid service help too. If you have an extended warranty, bring the contract information. You can explain it all in English, Spanish or Kreyòl at the counter.

Ready to book?

Pick a time. We text you the written price before any work starts.