Your vehicle's transmission is crucial to its performance. It's important to keep it in good shape by following the manufacturer's maintenance schedule and addressing any issues promptly and correctly. This can help you avoid major repairs and costly replacements in the future and ensure that your car remains reliable and safe to drive.

If you're in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, or the surrounding areas, look no further than John Kennedy Ford Phoenixville for your transmission service needs. As part of the John Kennedy family of dealerships that has been serving southeastern Pennsylvania for more than 50 years, we've built a reputation for providing service that exceeds expectations. We're the premier destination for all your automotive needs.

What Are the Signs That You Need Transmission Service?

Recognizing the warning signs of transmission trouble can save you from the hassle of dealing with major issues in the future.

Strange Responses During Shift Changes

A common sign that your transmission may need servicing is when your car begins to respond differently when you change gears. You might experience jerking when shifting, or hesitation, which is when your vehicle takes longer than usual to respond to a shift. Smooth transitions between gears are crucial for optimal vehicle performance, and irregularities like these should prompt a visit to your trusted mechanic or to our service center.

Gear Slipping

Gear slipping is often a serious indication of a transmission issue. Telltale signs of this are a decrease in speed and engine power, which can negatively affect your driving experience and increase the risk of an accident. Slipping may be caused by worn-out clutch components, defective solenoids, low fluid level, or damage to other transmission parts.

Burning Smell

A burning odor is commonly caused by a fluid leak or overheating. Transmission fluid plays a crucial role in keeping the system cool and lubricated. If it's low or degraded, it can cause the transmission to overheat, leading to this particular smell.

Gear Jamming

A sign that there's a problem with your transmission is when your car gets stuck in one gear or refuses to shift to another. This may be the result of a low transmission fluid level that causes the gears to slip or grind. A worn-out clutch plate may also be the culprit, as this can make shifting difficult. A faulty solenoid, which is responsible for controlling the flow of fluid, can also cause gear jamming.

Unusual Noises 

If you hear grinding, whining, or clunking sounds, it's time to check the transmission. These noises often arise from metal-on-metal contact due to damaged gears or insufficient lubrication caused by low fluid levels. The latter may also result in loud noises when your car is idling or in neutral. 

Fluid Leaks

If you notice a reddish or brownish fluid pooling under your vehicle, there may be a transmission fluid leak. This may be caused by damage to various components, including seals, hoses, the pan gasket, transmission pan, or torque converter. It's important to have your transmission checked out as soon as possible if this occurs so the source of the leak can be identified and fixed, and the transmission fluid can be replenished. 

Turned On Check Engine Light

There are many reasons your vehicle's check engine light may come on, such as a problem with the transmission. Even if you're unsure of what the issue is, it's a good idea to bring your car to professionals, such as our technicians at John Kennedy Ford Phoenixville, to have it inspected.

How Often Do You Need To Change the Transmission Fluid?

The interval can vary based on your vehicle's make and model, your driving habits, and the manufacturer's recommendations. The general rule of thumb is to change the fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, this may be shorter if you find yourself in stop-and-go traffic a lot, live in a hot climate, or haul or tow heavy loads frequently. Consulting your owner's manual or our service professionals at John Kennedy Ford Phoenixville will provide the most accurate guidance.

It's important to change the transmission fluid at the recommended intervals or when necessary, such as if there's been a leak or it appears dark or dirty. Failing to do so can result in damaged transmission parts that may lead to expensive repairs or replacements. This can also pose a safety issue, as a faulty transmission can affect your control of the vehicle. 

Transmission Service Operations at John Kennedy Ford Phoenixville

Our factory-trained and certified technicians are equipped to handle all aspects of transmission service. From fluid changes to complete overhauls, we offer comprehensive services tailored to your vehicle's needs. We use only genuine parts and fluids, so you can be sure your car is in good hands. Some of our services include:

• Transmission fluid change: This entails replacing old fluid with a new batch to maintain your vehicle's optimal performance. Regular fluid changes help prevent wear and tear on your transmission and keep your car running smoothly.
• Transmission repair: This includes diagnosing and fixing any transmission issues. It also covers replacing damaged or worn out parts.
• Transmission inspection: Early detection of issues can save you time and money, as it allows you to address problems before they escalate. This service may include a fluid check, visual inspection for leaks, wear and tear, and damage to components, and road test to determine performance. 

Schedule Your Transmission Service at John Kennedy Ford Phoenixville Today

Regular transmission service can prevent major issues from occurring and help keep your vehicle operating at its best. If your car is due for a transmission service or you notice any of the warning signs mentioned, schedule a service appointment with us. We also offer Ford Pickup & Delivery and Ford Mobile Service for your convenience. For more information about our transmission services, call us at 484-921-1042, fill out our online contact form, or visit us in person at 3189 West Ridge Pike in Phoenixville.