10 Best Practices For Used Car Transmission

By Author: Pream Madhan
Total Articles: 14
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Here are some of the best practices to keep in mind when you buy a used transmission for your vehicle.
1. Have a check on the source of the transmission
Although a used transmission will be substantially less inn cost, minding about where it sourced from makes you worth the buying. Since you will be going to invest your hard-earned money in buying a used transmission, it is very essential to do research and make sure that you purchase it from a reputable source.
You can do the purchase from either an auto shop or online sellers specializing in selling used auto parts. No matter where you are buying from, it is important to have a clear understanding of how the seller sources the parts and what kinds of quality measures are in place.
2. Ensuing the transmission fluid leak
If some leakage is in the transmission, it is never a good sign for the buy. You can notice the leakage if any underneath the transmission where it was stored. For determining whether the used car transmission has leaks with it, it is recommended to add fluid to the current level and check for the spillage.
3. Avoid the seller ...
... not having expertise and reputation in the industry
Though, it can be tempting to head to any auto parts dealer and find a used transmission for your car which is much cheaper, it is not a wise idea. There are numerous factors to be considered like short warranties. If in case the transmission part suddenly fails and you find yourself needing to replace it, it will be out of your pocket. Transmissions feature some kinds of sensors that are controlled by a computer. If any of the components malfunction on the used part, it is of no value to your purchase. So never overlook the experience of the seller and his reputation in the industry.
4. Check for rough shifting
When an automatic used car transmission is in need of repair, rough shifting is the most obvious sign that it shows. Though it may be slight in the initial stage, with gradual time it can become increasingly intensive.
If the used transmission is still not removed from its vehicle, you can observe shuddering while switching between gears. In addition you can hear an audible “clunk” sound while changing gears.
However, it is hard to identify the potential causes. It may either be due to fluid issue or can be the issue with the clutch linkage shift cables or computer system.
5. Match with your vehicle requirement
Be sure that you get the part that matches your specific car model needs precisely. You have to gather the relevant information available before you start shopping for a used transmission. Have the VIN in hand and start locating the internet or visiting the junkyard for any used car transmission. The VIN detail can offer you the information needed in your specific used parts.
Identify whether your vehicle has an automatic or a manual transmission. Drive train information most likely comes about when shopping for a used transmission also. This can ensure that your used transmission will work to its full potential, and you are not spending anything extra on the purchased transmission part.
6. Is there any warranty and what kind of warranty is issued?
A used transmission from a reputable seller usually comes with a minimum 30-day warranty. If anything goes wrong in that particular period, after you have installed it in your vehicle, the warranty provides you the peace of mind that it can be repaired or replaced.
7. Do a little research
If you are looking online for used transmissions, contact reputable and accredited salvage yards. Prefer salvage yards that are BBB A+ Rated and accredited, also look for whether they belong to local and national associations. Buying from a reliable person can save you a considerable amount of money on purchasing a used transmission with top quality.
8. Does it have any slipping gears?
When the automatic transmission is slipping, and you feel like that driving in one gear and suddenly if it changes for no reason, there is probably some hidden problem with the used transmission.
So you have to immediately ask the condition of that part to the dealer or seller. You can’t get compromised with gears that slip since it is related to your safety. Obviously, that is extremely dangerous.
Furthermore, riding with slipping gears can also lead to further damages in the transmission. While comparing with other issues like leaks that don’t immediately threaten your safety, this one certainly will. Hence don’t hesitate to avoid buying that transmission if you experience this warning sign.
9. Observe for burning smell
It is an obvious sign when you observe a burn smell that something is wrong. One of the very general causes that you experience a burning smelling is that arrived from the transmission. If the transmission fluid is dirty and gets overheated, you can’t expect a great job of lubricating the parts and cooling them down. If that transmission is continued to drive with dirty transmission fluid, the transmission may become damaged, and you can get the burnt smell.
10. Some good steps to be done after you buy the transmission
It is always better to change the fluid from the used transmission and start with fresh fluid rather than continue running with contaminated, old fluid. Take a closer look at the filter and observe any debris in the bottom of the pan. The condition of the filter can be a good indicator of the used transmission's health. Ensure that you install a new filter and with the dry pan gasket installed. Don’t forget, the torque spec for the pan bolts can be pretty low, so consider the specifications if you can or stick to conventional torque so that you don't deform the pan.
It is crucially important to take best care of your car transmission. Even minor issues, if ignored, can become worse with the course of time. Always have attention on car performance and properly take care of its essential parts for maximum efficiency, safety and longevity.
From easy maintenance activities like oil changes can maintain the transmission in good condition. If you need a used transmission when your existing transmission fails, procure from a trusted, qualified and reliable automotive shop.