Myth: If you haven’t had your transmission serviced before 100,000 miles, you’re too late and failure is guaranteed.

The above is similar to saying, “Ah well, I haven’t flossed in a year, so I’m already doomed and there’s no point in flossing now.” It’s obviously better to have your transmission serviced regularly, but if you’ve been skipping it, there’s no time better than the present. Having a proper transmission service performed may very well may extend its life. A transmission service may also uncover a current or potential future issue, both of which are better identified at a shop during a service instead of on the road. Preventative maintenance is key, and should an issue be identified, it will likely be far less extensive in scope and cost than had it been identified once it began showing obvious symptoms.

Related Article: Maintaining a Healthy Transmission

Myth: If you flush the transmission, your filter will be cleaned.

Imagine your transmission filter as a sock: Fluid enters the filter through the neck (or foot hole) and flows through the sock and out through the fabric at your toes. It’s a one-way system, so any debris or gunk that enters will be caught… and stay there. This will cause the filter to become clogged, and fluid will struggle to make its way through, if at all. Restricted fluid means an unlubricated transmission, and an unlubricated transmission opens you up to a host of potential mechanical issues. Just as you wouldn’t leave your socks full of debris, a good transmission service will include replacing the filter.

Myth: If you find material in the transmission pan, it’s about to fail.

Normal wear and tear will often result in a small amount of very fine, powder-like materials in the transmission pan. This fine residue differs from, say, large pieces of metal or signs of water – if either of the latter are in your pan, then there may indeed be a problem at hand. When in doubt, a transmission specialist, like those at AAMCO Colorado, will be able to identify and determine the cause of pan debris; we’ll also dissect the filter to further identify any evidence of potential problems. Material isn’t always symptomatic of a problem, but it’s important to be thorough and certain just in case.

Related Article: Why is My Transmission Fluid Leaking

Myth: As long as you use transmission fluid when it’s changed, it doesn’t matter what type.

Transmission fluid blends are specially made by manufacturers to address the unique demands of a design. Of the hundreds of fluids on the market, it’s important to make sure you know what fluid your shop is using – “universal” or substandard fluids may not be designed for your specific transmission and cause sub-par performance or even major damage in some cases. Here at AAMCO CO, we only use the highest quality and correct blends for your specific vehicle.

Related Article: What Happens If I Use The Wrong Transmission Fluid?

Myth: If a mechanic offers a transmission fluid exchange service, they are able to service your transmission as well as a specialized transmission shop.

There’s more to a proper transmission service than just draining oil. A transmission service will identify and address little problems before they spiral into bigger, more costly problems! Experienced transmission technicians like those at AAMCO CO will know what common issues to look for, and how to identify issues that arise during road tests. They’ll also be able to make recommendations on how to keep those problems in check and at bay. Shops that focus on oil changes may not be aware of technical nuances, like those that can help or cause catastrophic transmission damage! They may use substandard fluids, reuse the old filter, or even use the wrong filter for your system – which can destroy your transmission.