FAQs

There are several different symptoms of a transmission problem. Some of them include:

If in good condition, transmission fluid usually looks like a red or pink oil. If it has a brown tint to it, that’s usually a good indication that the fluid needs to be changed and it’s often a sign of a transmission problem.

For almost all problems, we can have an answer for you in just a couple of hours. Many times, it takes less than 30 minutes. Some computer and electrical related issues can take more time to pinpoint, but to help you save time, we can schedule your visit.

The amount of time needed for transmission repairs and services depends on what’s being done. If it’s just a normal flush or fluid replacement, we can get you taken care of in 2 hours or less. If we’re rebuilding your transmission, we can usually get your vehicle back to you the same or next day.

We get asked this all the time. The worst case scenario for anyone would be that the transmission can’t be rebuilt and you need a replacement transmission. This is extremely rare though. Virtually all transmissions can be rebuilt or repaired by simply addressing what’s wrong with it. So the worst case scenario question is kind of a moot point. What really matters is what it costs to fix the specific problem you’re experiencing, which is unique to each individual transmission. To get to that answer, proper diagnostic testing is required.

Most of the time it starts with design flaws. A design flaw is characterized by a repeated failure in a specific area in any one type of transmission. However, most transmission design flaws aren’t apparant without some kind of abuse, misuse, lack of maintenance, or excessive mileage. With proper maintenance and care, transmission failures are rare.

Although it’s certainly possible, we typically don’t advise it. If you add the wrong type or amount of fluid, it can cause severe damage in the long run. That is one of the reasons why some manufacturers these days no longer include dipsticks on their new models.

Yes, Rutland Transmissions works on foreign vehicles, including Audi, Acura, BMW, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Jaguar, Kia, Lexus, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota, Volkswagon and more. Our team of seasoned driveline specialists are experts in clutch repair, torque converter, check engine light service, transmission flush, automatic transmission repair, manual transmission repair, CVT repair, transfer cases, rear and front differentials, front wheel drive, 4-wheel drive, flywheels, driveshafts, constant or universal velocity joints, etc.

This ultimately comes down to what’s wrong with the transmission you have. If your transmission can be rebuilt, it’s almost always a more cost-effective route to go compared to replacing it. We help you make the best choice possible after we’ve diagnosed the problem and know exactly what it’ll take to fix it.

Transmission repairs are notorious for being expensive, but that’s not always the case. More times than not, especially when you catch it early and get it taken care of at the first sign there’s a problem, repairs are usually simple and relatively inexpensive. If left untreated though, transmission problems can definitely become expensive if you need to rebuild or replace the unit.

Most transmissions today consist of hundreds of individual components. With a major repair, each part must be removed, cleaned, and inspected. Any worn or damaged parts are repaired or replaced. Then all of the parts must be carefully put back together and tested for proper operation. Finally, once the transmission is completely assembled again, it has to be reinstalled and tested. There’s a lot of work and usually parts needed to properly rebuild a transmisssion.

Each car is slightly different. Some manufacturers recommend changing your transmission fluid out as often as every 30,000 miles, while others recommend waiting until you reach 100,000 miles. Driving conditions can make a big difference too though. If you regularly pull heavy loads, drive in stop and go traffic, or regularly accelerate quickly, you may have to check and change your transmission fluid more frequently. Referring to your vehicle’s owners manual for the recommended changing times is a good place to start or just give us a call and we can give your our recommendation.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all price. The cost to repair your transmission will depend on a wide range of factors, including:

• The make and model of your vehicle
• The type of transmission (automatic, manual, or CVT)
• What’s wrong with it
• The parts & labor required to fix it

To give you an accurate estimate, we’ll do a road test and diagnostic testing completely free of charge to you. This allows us to identify exactly what the problem is so that we’re giving you a fair price for the work that actually needs to be done to your transmission. We will obtain your authorization before we begin any service for which there is a charge.