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(954) 764-5060

Frequently asked questions

Transmission repair questions, answered straight.

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Technician working under a car in the shop
In the shop on State Road 7

Cost and estimates

How much does a transmission repair cost?

It depends on what is wrong. A leak or a solenoid is a very different job from a rebuild or a replacement, and the vehicle, the parts, and the amount of damage all matter. We diagnose the problem first, then give you a written estimate before any work starts.

Do you charge for diagnosis?

Please ask when you call (954) 764-5060. We will tell you what the diagnosis involves for your vehicle and whether there is a charge before we start.

Will you do work I did not approve?

No. You get a written estimate before any work, and nothing gets done without your OK. If we find something new during the job, we call you first and wait for your answer.

Repair or replace

Does a slipping transmission always need a rebuild?

No. Slipping can come from low or worn fluid, a leak, a solenoid, a valve body problem, or a torque converter issue. We diagnose it first so you do not pay for a rebuild you do not need.

What is the difference between a rebuild and a replacement?

A rebuild means your transmission is taken apart, the worn and damaged parts are replaced, and it goes back together. A replacement swaps in a different unit: remanufactured, used, OEM, or one you supply. Rebuilds come with a written warranty.

Which replacement option is right for my car?

It depends on the age and value of the car, how long you plan to keep it, and what parts are available. A used unit can make sense on an older car, while a remanufactured or OEM unit may fit better on a car you plan to keep. We explain the options in your written estimate so you can choose.

Driving and symptoms

Can I drive with a slipping transmission?

No. A slipping transmission can lose drive without warning, which is dangerous in traffic. Driving on it also adds damage and can turn a smaller repair into a rebuild. Park it and call us at (954) 764-5060.

How long does a transmission rebuild take?

It depends on parts availability and how much damage we find. Diagnosis is often done the same day you bring the car in, but that depends on the car and how busy the shop is. Bigger jobs like rebuilds and replacements usually take several days, and we call you if the timeline changes.

What are the common signs of transmission trouble?

Slipping, hard or late shifts, a delay going into Drive or Reverse, shuddering, whining or clunking noises, a burning smell, red fluid under the car, and a check engine light. If you notice any of these, get it checked early, while you still have more options.

Maintenance

How often should I service my transmission?

Many manufacturers call for transmission fluid service somewhere between 30,000 and 60,000 miles, but it varies by vehicle, so check your owner's manual. If you tow, haul heavy loads, or drive mostly in stop-and-go traffic, follow the severe duty schedule and service it sooner.

Should I get a transmission flush or a drain and fill?

A drain and fill replaces part of the fluid and is often the safer choice on a high-mileage transmission that has gone a long time without service. A flush replaces more of the old fluid at once. We look at your vehicle, its condition, and the manufacturer's guidance, then recommend the one that fits.

Does a CVT need special fluid?

Yes. A CVT needs the specific fluid its manufacturer calls for, and the wrong fluid can cause problems. Tell us if your car has a CVT, or we can check for you.

Warranty and extended warranty claims

Do your rebuilds come with a warranty?

Yes. Rebuilds come with a written warranty. Ask us for the details when you get your estimate, so you know what is covered before you approve the work.

Do you work with extended warranty companies?

Yes. We work with most extended warranty companies and help you with the claim. When the claim is approved, we can bill the warranty company directly.

My car has an extended warranty. What should I do first?

Call us before you authorize any repair, and have your contract information handy. We diagnose the problem, help you through the claim, and tell you what is approved before any work starts.

Fleet

Do you work on fleet vehicles?

Yes. We work on box trucks, delivery vans, and work trucks, including transmissions, transfer cases, differentials, and general repairs. We also offer heavy-duty towing upgrades for trucks that pull regularly.

Do you offer direct billing for fleets?

Yes, direct billing is available for fleets. Call (954) 764-5060 or email Contact@downtowntrans.com to talk about your vehicles and how you want repair approvals handled.

Visiting the shop

What are your hours?

We are open Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. We are closed on Saturday and Sunday.

Where are you located?

631 S State Rd 7, Plantation, FL 33317. We are on the west side of State Road 7 (US 441), a few blocks south of Broward Boulevard, near SW 6th Street.

What should I bring when I drop off my car?

Bring your keys and a clear description of the problem: when it happens, how long it has been going on, and any warning lights. Records of past transmission work or fluid service help too. If you have an extended warranty, bring the contract information.

What if my car breaks down on a weekend?

We are closed on weekends, so plan to bring the car in when we open Monday at 8 AM. You can email Contact@downtowntrans.com over the weekend, or call (954) 764-5060 once we open.

Downtown Transmissions · Plantation

Not sure what it is? That's what the diagnosis is for.

Written estimate before any work. Nothing gets done without your OK. Mon to Fri, 8 AM to 5 PM.

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