A logo for all drive with a red gear in the middle.

2929 Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy. Des Moines, IA 50310   |   Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

A logo for all drive with a red gear in the middle.

2929 Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy. Des Moines, IA 50310    |    Monday-Friday 8am-5pm    515-384-0629

All Drive Transmission Blog

Don’t Ignore these Common Signs of an Automatic Transmission Problem

by All Drive Transmission • 16 January 2025
Keeping your automatic transmission healthy is essential for smooth driving. But like any complex system in your car, your automatic transmission can eventually develop problems. Identifying early warning signs can help save you from expensive repairs or even a complete transmission failure. At All Drive Transmission, our local transmission mechanics provide expert automatic transmission repair in the greater Des Moines, IA area. Here’s a look at four common signs of an automatic transmission problem. Delayed or Slipping Gears One of the most common signs of a transmission problem is delayed or slipping gears. If you notice hesitation when shifting from park to drive, or if the vehicle unexpectedly slips out of gear while driving, your transmission is clearly struggling. This issue often indicates low transmission fluid or worn-out gears. Unusual Noises Strange noises—such as whining, grinding, or clunking—can signal trouble within the transmission. These sounds might occur while shifting gears or even while the car is in neutral. Transmission components, like bearings or planetary gears, may be worn or damaged, leading to these abnormal sounds. Leaking Transmission Fluid Transmission fluid is essential for lubrication and cooling. If you spot reddish-colored fluid pooling under your car, it’s a clear warning sign of a leak. Low fluid levels can cause overheating and severe internal damage. Addressing leaks promptly is crucial to prevent further complications. Leaks often form due to cracked transmission lines and worn transmission pan gaskets. Burning Smell A burning smell while driving could indicate that your transmission is overheating. Overheating often results from low fluid levels, dirty transmission fluid, or excessive strain on the transmission system. Ignoring this smell can lead to significant damage and costly repairs. Automatic Transmission Repair in Des Moines, IA When you need transmission repair in Des Moines and the surrounding area, contact All Drive Transmission at  515-384-0629  . At our local transmission shop, our experienced mechanics will make sure that your car is capable of shifting smoothly. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

4 Simple Tips for a Healthy Transmission

by All Drive Transmission • 17 December 2024
When transmission issues develop, they can become quite expensive to address. So it’s worth taking some basic precautions to keep your transmission in great shape. At All Drive Transmission, we provide transmission maintenance in Des Moines that helps to keep your transmission in optimal condition. Here’s a look at four tips for a healthy transmission. Check and Change Transmission Fluid Regularly Transmission fluid plays a vital role in lubricating and cooling the system. But as it ages, the fluid can degrade, becoming less effective at protecting the internal components. Checking the fluid level and condition regularly is essential to catch any issues early. If the fluid appears dark or has a burnt smell, it’s time for replacement. Following your manufacturer’s recommendations for fluid changes can prevent overheating and reduce friction, ultimately extending the lifespan of your transmission. Pay Attention to Driving Habits Your driving habits have a significant impact on the health of your transmission. Aggressive driving—such as sudden acceleration, harsh braking, and rapid gear shifts—can put unnecessary strain on the system. Instead, practice smooth and gradual acceleration and deceleration. If you drive a manual transmission, avoid resting your foot on the clutch pedal, as this can cause unnecessary wear. Use the Right Transmission Fluid Not all transmission fluids are the same, and using the wrong type can lead to damage. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner manual to determine the correct fluid for your specific make and model. Using the right fluid enables proper lubrication, cooling, and overall performance. If you’re unsure, consult the mechanic to make sure the fluid meets your vehicle’s requirements. Inspect and Maintain the Transmission System Routine inspections can help you detect early signs of transmission problems before they escalate. Listen for unusual noises like grinding or whining and pay attention to any delayed shifting or slipping gears. Regular maintenance can prevent minor issues from turning into major repairs. If you notice any warning signs, don’t delay in seeking professional help. Transmission Service in Des Moines, IA When you need transmission service in Des Moines and the surrounding area, contact All Drive Transmission at  515-384-0629  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

What are the common symptoms of a transmission fluid leak?

by All Drive Transmission • 18 November 2024
A transmission fluid leak may seem like a minor issue, but it can quickly lead to significant problems if left unchecked. Transmission fluid plays a crucial role in keeping your vehicle's transmission running well by cooling and lubricating internal components. It also provides the pressure necessary for smooth shifting. This makes it important to address any leaks ASAP. At All Drive Transmission, we provide expert transmission fluid leak repair in the greater Des Moines area. Here are five common warning signs of a transmission fluid leak: Reddish Fluid Puddle Under the Car The most obvious sign of a transmission fluid leak is spotting reddish fluid under your car. Transmission fluid commonly has a slightly sweet smell, and unlike engine oil, it’s usually reddish in color. If you notice a small puddle of this fluid under your vehicle, it’s important to investigate further. Low Fluid Levels If you suspect a leak, checking the transmission fluid level can help confirm it. With the engine warm, pull out the transmission dipstick and check the level. If it’s lower than recommended, you may be dealing with a leak. Frequently needing to top off the fluid is a sign of a leak in the system. Slipping Gears or Delayed Shifts Transmission fluid is vital for smooth gear transitions. When there’s a leak, the transmission may lack enough fluid pressure, causing your car to slip out of gear or experience delayed shifting. This can be particularly dangerous while driving at high speeds. Overheating Transmission Transmission fluid is responsible for cooling the transmission. Without enough fluid, the transmission can overheat, potentially causing severe internal damage. A distinct burning smell is a common warning sign that transmission fluid has started to overheat. Strange Noises When Shifting Another warning sign of a transmission fluid leak is strange sounds when your car shifts gears, such as clunking, grinding, or whining noises. Transmission fluid helps lubricate gears, and when it’s low, these noises can occur because the metal components within the transmission are grinding against each other. Transmission Fluid Leak Repair in Des Moines, IA When you need transmission repair in Des Moines and the surrounding area, contact All Drive Transmission at  515-384-0629  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
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