AAMCO Colorado Frequently Asked Questions

Questions from Real People, Answers from Expert Mechanics


At AAMCO Colorado our goal is customer satisfaction. Along with that comes education – helping you, the customer, understand as much about your car as possible. Oftentimes you have a question about your car, espcially when there is a problem. We’re here to answer your questions and help you understand your car, as well as get an idea of what might be wrong.

Book an Appointment Online

Loading...

General Service Questions

Q. How often does my car need a tune up?

As long as your car wasn’t made before 1970, a tune up once every 30,000 miles should suffice. A tune up is a good idea for several reasons, foremost because it make you aware of potentially larger issues that will cost more money if not taken care of as soon as possible. Also, it helps you set and appreciate the value of a regular maintenance schedule. Get more information on what is included in a tune up.

Q. What is preventative maintenance?

Preventative maintenance is one of the best ways for you to save money, avoid unnecessary costly repairs, and ensure the long, reliable life of your car. A good regular maintenance schedule involves making sure that everything in the car works right. Following the factory recommended maintenance is a good practice that helps you keep track of important checkups and services necessary to ensure your car is running as efficiently as possible. If you don’t get preventative maintenance for your car occasionally, you’re likely going to pay for it later. Take advantage of our seasonal specials that often include FREE inspections.

Q. Does it really matter where I take my car for service?

Servicing your car properly now means you won’t have to pay for expensive repairs later. Repairs usually become necessary when a car isn’t properly taken care of. AAMCO Colorado is a trusted source for vehicle servicing and repair. From manufacturer recommended maintenance and regular services. just check out our reviews.

Q. Should I take my car to the dealership?

Dealerships tend to charge higher rates. AAMCO Colorado offers more personalized service than you’ll find from a large dealership, plus we have many locations to serve you in Colorado and nationwide.

Transmissions

Q. Should I repair or replace my transmission?

Many of those who bring their vehicle into an AAMCO Colorado for transmission service and repair are both surprised and relieved to learn that a problem with their vehicle’s transmission does not necessarily mean a lot of money needs to be spent to repair it. In fact there are several transmission problems that can be solved without having to remove the transmission from a vehicle. AAMCO Colorado has put together the following information in an effort to make you a better informed consumer when trying to decide if you should repair or replace your transmission. We also provide Transmission Inspections to determine the best solution for your particular situation.

Q. How do I know if my transmission will need a minor repair?

The technicians at AAMCO Colorado understand that problems with your vehicle’s transmission can often be resolved with adjustments or a minor repair. In fact, a simple adjustment can be done without even removing the transmission from the vehicle. When a late model transmission is failing to shift correctly, it can often be due to a faulty sensor receiving incorrect signals from the computer. Additionally shifting problems can arise when a transmission is not responding to the computer correctly due to a bad connection or defective solenoid pack. These types of repairs can be fixed without having to remove the transmission from the vehicle saving you a considerable amount of money when compared to a complete overhaul.

Q. Will my non computer-controlled transmission need repair?

In situations where a non computer-controlled transmission is either shifting too early or too late, the throttle cable may need to be adjusted. Rarely will a throttle cable go out of adjustment on its own or because of wear and tear, but rather most issues are a result of other repair work or due to damage from an accident. When a vacuum modulator is used instead of a throttle cable, an adjustment screw can be used to correct a transmission problem. When a vehicle uses a modulator instead of a throttle cable it is crucial that there be no vacuum leaks and the engine is performing at peak efficiency. The vacuum conditions of an engine are very sensitive and significantly impact the performance of an engine. Our AAMCO Colorado technicians will quite often use a vacuum gauge when diagnosing a vehicle‘s performance problem and state of tune.

Q. Is my transmission slipping?

Many of the problems a vehicle’s transmission may present will disappear after a thorough tune-up or other engine performance related repairs are completed. Transmissions in older model vehicles can experience what is called “slipping”. Slipping is a condition that results in an engine racing briefly when shifting from one gear to another. Often times a transmission band adjustment is all that is required to correct slipping conditions.

Q. Does my transmission need to be resealed?

Spotting of red oil on the ground underneath your vehicle is usually indicative of your transmission needing a reseal job. Reseals  are done in order to repair external transmission fluid leaks. Checking for leaks involves one of our technicians placing your vehicle on a rack to examine the transmission for signs of oil leaks. If while examining your vehicle our technician notices leaks near any of the external gaskets or seals and your transmission is otherwise performing well, our recommendation will usually the transmission be resealed. While most external seals can be replaced without needing to remove the transmission, a front seal replacement requires the removal of the transmission in order to gain access to it, resulting in a more expensive transmission repair.

Q. Do I need replacement parts for my transmission?

The transmission in your vehicle has numerous parts that are accessible without requiring the removal of your transmission, including the majority of the electrical parts that are serviced simply by removing the oil pan. Repairing a transmission’s external parts may result in limited warranty coverage as it is not possible to see if there is any additional problems with the parts inside the transmission that are only accessible with the complete removal of the transmission.

Q. What is a transmission overhaul?

A complete transmission overhaul, also known as a transmission rebuild, is when a transmission is completely removed from the vehicle and disassembled in our shop. Each of the parts are laid out on a workbench and is inspected for damage and wear. The parts are then either cleaned in a special cleaning solution or replaced if damaged. If a part has friction surfaces, such as the case with bands and clutches, then it is replaced. In a complete transmission overhaul all gaskets and seals are replaced as well. The torque converter is replaced during a complete transmission overhaul, being replaced with a re-manufactured one. Additionally our technicians will review technical service notifications to check if the manufacturer of the transmission in question recommends any modifications intended to correct design defects realized after the transmission was built.

Q. Should I rebuild or replace my transmission?

When it is determined that your vehicle’s transmission is in need of an overhaul a replacement unit may be a consideration. Rather than removing your existing transmission only to completely disassemble and reassemble it, another option is to replace it with one that has already been rebuilt or re-manufactured. There are several things to consider when deciding to use a replacement unit instead of a complete transmission rebuild. Although a replacement unit will get you back on the road much faster it is not always the best solution. There are situations when any given transmission model will have numerous variations dependent upon factors such as which model vehicle, engine, axle ratio, and even tire size!

Q. How do I tell if my transmission fluid needs to be changed?

Your transmission will show signs of trouble. Things such as trouble going into gear, hard shifts or thumps between gears, slipping or jumping gears, delay in acceleration, and strange noises such as whining or grinding are all signs it’s time to change the transmission fluid. The color of the transmission fluid is a good visual way to estimate the age and condition of the fluid and to get an idea of any possible bigger problems. Read more about your transmission, transmission fluid, and how to know if something is wrong.

Q. How many times can a transmission be rebuilt?

This will depend on which parts in your transmission have failed, how extensive the damage is, and how much money you are willing to spend on parts vs a new car. Learn more about rebuilding vs replacing a transmission.

 

Check Engine Light & Car Not Starting

Q. Why won’t my car start?

There are many reasons why your car is having difficulty starting, or won’t start at all.

  • Bad starter
  • Alternator is failing
  • Fuel pump is failing or fuel line is clogged
  • Fuel injector is bad or clogged
  • Spark plugs are worn out
  • Bad or failing Engine Control Module (ECM)

Call your local AAMCO Colorado repair shop if your car won’t start. Towing available based on location.
Get tips on what to do when your car won’t start.

Q. My check engine light is on. What should I do?

There are many sensors and computerized components that manage your vehicle’s engine performance and emissions. When one of these fails, the “check engine” light comes on. Although your car might seem fine, we suggest bringing it in to your local AAMCO Colorado for an inspection. We’ll do a thorough review of all major systems in your car. We check to make sure you are completely up to date on recommended factory maintenance and your car is safe and efficient. We identify any issues and recommend the necessary repairs, but we don’t do any work without your approval. You can get more information on what causes the check engine light to come on and what might be wrong with your car here:

Important Parts & Maintenance

Q. Is it necessary to replace my timing belt at the recommended interval?

YES. The timing belt regulates the speed at which your engine runs. When the timing belt breaks, the engine is thrown into chaos – all its systems and moving parts are suddenly thrown out of sync. The engine then seizes up and stops running. If you’re lucky, the piston rods don’t blow through the engine block, or some other massive damage has not occurred. You will end up having your car towed to a mechanic, for quite possibly some terrible news. You might be facing a lot of expensive repairs, if repairs are even possible, or you might just have to get a new car.

What do I do if…?

Q. What should I do if my car starts to overheat?

This is a very serious problem – if your car overheats for too long, you can damage your engine. As soon as possible, find a safe place to pull off the road and shut the engine off! Do not attempt to check the fluid level in the radiator as it can burn you. The best thing to do is to call your Local AAMCO Colorado location, towing will be available.

Q. What should I do if I hear strange sounds in my car?

Noises can be serious; it is best to have our vehicle checked by one of your local AAMCO Colorado professional technicians.

Q. What should I do if my car rolls when it is in park?

This could be a warning sign of a failing transmission, and we suggest bringing our car in to your nearest AAMCO Colorado service center as soon as possible for a diagnostic scan to determine the problem. Learn more about why your car rolls when you put it in park.

Q. What should I do if my traction light is always on?

When the traction control warning light stays on, that means you aren’t getting any help from the system to control traction and the system needs to be checked. It is important to get this fixed as your traction control helps prevent wheel slipping. We can run a diagnostic scan to read the code put out by your cars computer to determine the exact problem.

Q. What should I do if my car won’t shift into park, reverse, etc?

Your car not shifting can indicate transmission cables that are broken or stretched to far, signal low transmission fluid, or a failing shifter. We suggest coming into your nearest AAMCO CO service center before a full transmission failure.

Q. What should I do if I put the wrong transmission fluid in my car?

Some transmission fluids are very incompatible with different transmission types as they use different additives in the fluids and using the wrong fluid can result in the death of your transmission. If you have used the wrong transmission fluid you will need to remove that fluid as soon as possible to try to minimize the amount of damage to your transmission. If your car has already been driving with the wrong fluid for many miles it is possible you will need to replace your transmission outright as too much damage has already been done. The experts at AAMCO Colorado can help you determine the best course of action for your car if you have put the wrong transmission fluid in it.

Q. What should I do if I put the wrong gas in my car?

Depending on the type of fuel your car requires the problem may be more or less serious. For instance putting diesel fuel into a gas powered car can cause serious problems, where as simply using the wrong octane gas will be less harmful. If you think you have put the wrong fuel in your car then it is best to get in with your mechanic to run a diagnostic test to check for lasting damage. Learn more about what happens if you put the wrong fuel in your car here.

When should I…?

Q. When should I change my oil? How many miles between oil changes?

You should get your oil changed every 3000 miles or as recommended in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

Q. When should I have my car’s alignment checked?

To maximize the life expectancy of your tires, alignment should be performed once a year or every 10-12,000 mile.

Q. When should I replace my car’s fuel filter?

To help ensure dependable, trouble-free performance, replace your car’s fuel filter approximately every 30,000 miles or as recommended in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

Q. When should I change my spark plugs?

For maximum fuel economy and peak engine performance, your spark plugs should be replaced every 30 months or 30,000 miles, unless your vehicle is equipped with 100,000-mile platinum tipped spark plugs.

What is that…?

Q. What is that milky brown engine oil?

Milky brown engine oil is an indication of coolant in the oil. This can be caused by a blown head gasket (other gasket) or cracked casings. This condition is very serious and needs to be checked by a professional technician quickly.

Q. What is that smell coming out of the air conditioning vents when I turn the a/c on?

The air conditioning filter is dirty and collecting mold. Have your A/C system check out by your local AAMCO

Q. What is that clicking noise when making sharp turns?

Most likely the C.V. axles are in need of replacement. Have you front end checked by a professional technician.

Q. What is synthetic motor oil?

Synthetic motor oils can be a good choice for high output, high mileage vehicles, turbocharged or supercharged engines, vehicles that are used for towing (especially during hot weather), or vehicles that are operated in extremely cold or hot climates.

Q. What is that sound (stuttering, gurgling, whining, grinding etc.)?

A strange noise can be one of the first warning signs that something is wrong with your car. Different sounds can indicate different issues. Issues can range from transmission trouble, your brakes failing, problems with your power steering and more. Our technicians will run a thorough diagnostic test to indentify the exact cause.
We have an extensive library of articles that can help give you an idea of what is wrong with your car as well, you might consider reading:

How do I…?

Q. How do I make sure my car battery has a good electrical connection?

Check the terminals for any corrosion, rust or dirt buildup. Any of these elements is a bad sign. Ensure the terminals are covered and secure. Battery cables and terminals should be cleaned and inspected to make sure they provide a good electrical connection.

Q. How do I replace a burned-out fuse?

Your best bet here is to check your owner’s manual. It should have step-by-step instructions, as well as specifications on what type fuses are required. Always replace burned-out fuses with ones of the same amperage (printed on the fuse). If a fuse continues to blow, you should have the circuit checked professionally by one of our technicians for defects.

Questions About AAMCO Services

Q: Transmission slipping, grinding, overheating or just not acting right?

image - logo for AAMCO's proprietary Power Purge Transmission Fluid Flush and Cleaning Service

Check out our Power Purge® Services. Power Purge® is a proprietary process that replaces virtually all of the old, degraded transmission fluid with fresh fluid to help prolong the life of your transmission.

Q: Do you offer towing?

image of young woman smiling at us from driver side of car, open window.Yes we do. Check with your Local AAMCO Colorado location for more information.

Q: What is your warranty?

Each AAMCO Colorado dealer offers a 12 month 12,000 mile warranty on Total Car Care services. This does not include minor transmission repairs. Call your local AAMCO Colorado dealership for information on transmission repair and Total Car Care services. Get complete information on AAMCO warranties and extended service contracts.

Q: How long will the repair take?

The length of time depends on the type of repair, facility scheduling and availability of any necessary parts.

Q: Will you be utilizing all new parts in my vehicle?

AAMCO uses both new and remanufactured parts where required to bring your vehicle up to (OEM) original manufacturer specifications.

Q: Do you have financing?

Check with your Local AAMCO Colorado. Our locations deal with some financing companies to help get your vehicle serviced.

Q: Do you accept extended warranties?

Yes, we accept and work with all extended warranties.

image of smiling, friendly AAMCO mechanic. Can’t Find Your Question or Answer?

Ask a Mechanic

AAMCO Colorado mechanics are certified and have years of experience in transmission and automotive repairs and maintenance. If you have a question that is not answered here, Ask a Mechanic.

Find an AAMCO Colorado Transmission Repair Center Near You


The information contained in this website, or any of our content, videos, and publications is for general information purposes only. Learn more about our information disclaimer »