A car's transmission takes the energy from the engine and transports it to the wheels so your car's tires can move.
At Watermark Nissan, we are here to help drivers in the Marion, Herrin, and Carbondale, Illinois, areas keep their cars in great condition for years to come. Keep reading to learn more about transmissions. Then schedule a service appointment at our service center!
Car Transmissions 101
The engine in your car produces an immense amount of energy, too much to be usable or controllable in most driving conditions. That's where the transmission comes in by capturing and re-directing the engine's energy.
Besides the engine, the transmission is the largest piece of equipment under the hood of your car. Without it, your car cannot move, so it's safe to say that your transmission is pretty important!
Transmissions transfer energy from the engine to the wheels by converting your engine's power into torque, or rotational force. It has many toothed gears that affect how torque reaches the wheels. These gears come in different sizes and ratios to allow for smooth driving at a variety of speeds and RPMs.
So, in a nutshell, power goes from the engine to the transmission, which then uses that power to rotate gears and the driveshaft to turn your wheels.
Your car's transmission can also turn the driveshaft in the opposite direction. This is how your car can drive in reverse. When you put your car in neutral, you're disengaging all the gears, so the car doesn't move at all.
When you drive a car with a manual transmission, you use the clutch to shift between these gears yourself, whereas a car with an automatic transmission uses internal fluid pressure to change gears.
How to Tell Your Transmission Isn't Working Properly
Your transmission is responsible for transferring energy from the engine to the tires, and it also handles all gear changes. So, one of the most obvious signs that your car's transmission is not working well is if you are having trouble shifting gears. If your car cannot switch gears or slips from one gear to another, that's a sure sign your transmission needs a visit to our service center.
Other signs your transmission may not be operating properly include:
- Burning smell
- Grinding noises when in neutral
- Shaking
- Leaking fluid
- Check Engine Light
Transmission Service at Our Dealership
At our dealership, we have an on-site service center. There, a team of factory-trained and -certified technicians knows your make and model inside and out, so they can diagnose any issues and take care of them quickly and correctly.
We offer rotating specials that can help you save. Check our site regularly to find a deal that works for you. Schedule service from home!
Turn to Our Techs for Your Car's Transmission Needs
At Watermark Nissan, our team is here to help you answer any questions you may have about your car's transmission.
Drivers near the Marion, Herrin, and Carbondale, IL, areas can come to us for anything their cars need. Simply contact us today to schedule a service appointment!
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