Aamco Transmissions

Leaf springs were a common suspension system in American cars up until around 1985 (when they were replaced by coil spring suspension), and are still popular in heavy trucks. These use layers of metal (called leaves) that are connected to the axle.

One of the most important things that you should do to maintain your vehicle's transmission is to check the transmission fluid regularly. Do this according to manufacturer recommendations, but do it routinely. Top it off when it is low, and if it is leaking or low, then bring it in to be serviced.

Many of today's larger car makers using a CVT or continuous variable transmission. CVTs give a car or truck more power and allow the driver to experience smoother shifting as well as greater fuel economy. CVTs allow a vehicle to reach maximum power faster and with less effort than other types of transmissions.

To prolong the life of your transmission, avoid hard or jack rabbit accelerations. Because they generate a great deal of friction and heat in the transmission, they accelerate wear, tear, and deterioration.

Manual transmissions are much simpler than automatic transmissions, but that doesn't mean they can't run into problems; for example, the transmission might refuse to respond when you press the pedal or try to move the stick. A transmission expert can get it moving again.

Did you know that your transmission can have multiple clutches for the same gear depending on where your shifter is? Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about this, since a transmission expert will be able to keep all of your clutches hooked up correctly.

Some vehicles are actually built with a smaller, secondary radiator (oil cooler) for the transmission. This helps keep your transmission from overheating, but like your main radiator can run into issues. Fortunately, a transmission expert can fix any problems you have.

There are various symptoms that indicate you may be dealing with suspension problems in your car. Not only might you notice that the car doesn’t sit level or handle well on the road. One of the most obvious indicators involves excessive bouncing and swaying of the vehicle, even at low speeds.

Ideally, transmission fluid should be bright red and smell a little sweet, but not if there's a problem or if it needs to be replaced. If it has a dark color or a burnt smell, you should take your transmission to a transmission expert.

A worn-out suspension system can actually be quite dangerous? In fact, industry experts estimate that worn shocks add an average of 10 percent to your stopping distance, which can make a huge difference when it comes to avoiding an accident.

The owner’s manual for your vehicle contains the guidelines for brake inspection intervals, usually listed by brake component. Following the manufacturer's recommendations for brake maintenance will keep your brakes operating properly, and help keep you and your passengers safe.