Q. How do I know if I have a transmission problem?
A. Only an expert can tell for sure, but here are some things to look for:
1) CHECK ENGINE light comes on
2) Transmission "slips" when changing gears
3) Hard Shifts or noises when the transmission changes gears
4) Won't go into gear or won't pull
Q. What is the cost to rebuild a transmission?
A. The cost to repair will depend on the condition of your transmission. To determine the condition, we first perform our FREE TransCheck 21 PLUS service, which includes a full and complete road test and external examination. Most late model vehicles are electronically controlled and we will also scan the vehicle computer with our equipment to further determine if your vehicle has a transmission problem or something else. It's possible that the symptom you are feeling could be something other than the transmission. If there is a problem with the transmission, we will not perform any work without your authorization.
Q. How long will the FREE TransCheck 21 PLUS service take?
A. Generally, this service takes about 45 minutes. This will include a road test, electronic scan of the vehicle computer system, an external inspection while the vehicle is raised on the lift and a pan examination. We encourage our customers to wait while this service is performed and invite you to participate in the step-by-step procedures. If the TransCheck 21 PLUS Service indicates a repair is needed, and if you choose to have the work done, the repair can be completed in a day or two in most cases.
Q. What if I decide I don't want any work done?
A. The choice will always be yours and if you choose not to make the needed repair, there is still no charge for our TransCheck 21 PLUS Service.
Q. What types of guarantees does Cottman Transmission-St. Matthews offer?
A. All our work is guaranteed. Our standard warranty is 12,000 Miles or 12 Months, whichever comes first. However, depending on the extent of the work required, Cottman offers several warranties from 6 month/6000 miles up to a Lifetime Guarantee, if the vehicle qualifies. Our guarantees are tied to the work performed and are honored at over 400 Cottman locations coast-to-coast.
Q. What if I need a new transmission? How much would that be?
A. It is highly unlikely that you will need a new transmission. Of the 300 to 500 parts inside an automatic transmission, many will be re-useable. That savings can be passed on to you. It is generally more inexpensive to rebuild a transmission than to replace one. The price to repair your transmission will depend upon how much damage has been done.
Q. Can I wait to have the car repaired?
A. No. The longer you drive the vehicle, the more damage you will do to the hard parts inside the transmission, increasing the price of repair. The best thing to do is have the vehicle inspected immediately. After all, it could be something simple. If you have a confirmed transmission problem, it is highly recommended to have it repaired/rebuilt immediately to reduce further damage to the transmission. If you are concerned about driving the vehicle any farther, your Cottman representative can arrange to have the vehicle towed in and evaluated. In most cases, towing is FREE with major repairs. In the long run, this is the least expensive option. You can call our number (502) 897-9915 twenty-four hours a day for towing information after hours.
Q. Could a fluid change solve my problem?
A. It's possible. Depending on what the transmission is doing, a fluid change, along with replacing the filter and making the necessary adjustments, may solve the condition you are experiencing. If the car has an internal problem, changing the fluid will not resolve the problem. The vehicle should be evaluated through our FREE TransCheck 21 PLUS Service.
