Elite Transmissions Blog

Your vehicle’s brakes are crucial for your safety, and recognizing early signs of brake problems can prevent dangerous situations and costly repairs. At Elite Transmissions, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Arlington, TX area. Here are five warning signs of brake trouble that you shouldn’t ignore. Squealing or Grinding Noises One of the most common signs of brake trouble is an unusual noise, such as squealing, screeching, or grinding, when you press the brake pedal. Squealing often indicates worn brake pads, which contain a small metal indicator that makes noise when the pads need replacing. Grinding, on the other hand, could mean the pads are severely worn down, causing the metal parts to rub together. Ignoring these sounds can lead to damage to the brake rotors and more expensive repairs. Vibrations When Braking If you feel vibrations or pulsations through the brake pedal when braking, it could be a sign that your brake rotors are warped or uneven. Warped rotors can occur from overheating, leading to diminished braking efficiency. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal A soft or spongy brake pedal that sinks lower than usual when pressed can indicate air in the brake lines or a problem with the brake fluid, and potentially a sign of a brake fluid leak. Since brake fluid leaks can result in total brake failure, if your car has this issue, it’s best to get towed to the shop instead of driving there. Warning Light on the Dashboard Modern vehicles have a brake warning light on the dashboard that can alert you to issues with your braking system. This light may come on due to problems such as low brake fluid or a failing wheel speed sensor. If the brake light comes on, it’s best to have your vehicle’s braking system inspected right away, as driving with a brake issue can be dangerous. Pulling to One Side When Braking If your car pulls to one side when you apply the brakes, it could be a sign of a stuck brake caliper, perhaps due to corrosion. This is a dangerous issue that puts you at serious risk of an accident, making it important to address it ASAP. Brake Repair in Arlington, TX For auto repair in Arlington, TX and the surrounding area, contact Elite Transmissions at  817-861-6797  . Along with top-quality transmission work, our mechanics also provide expert bumper-to-bumper auto repair in Arlington. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Transmission fluid plays a crucial role in keeping your vehicle’s transmission system running smoothly. It lubricates the gears, prevents overheating, and helps transfer power from the engine to the wheels. When transmission fluid becomes contaminated, it can lead to various problems. At Elite Transmissions, we can expertly handle issues with transmission fluid. Here are five warning signs that your transmission fluid is contaminated. Discolored Transmission Fluid Fresh transmission fluid typically has a bright red or pink color. If the fluid appears dark brown, black, or cloudy, it’s a strong indication of contamination. As the miles add up, transmission fluid can become mixed with debris, leading to a change in color. When you check the fluid and notice a significant discoloration, it’s time to get your transmission system inspected and the fluid replaced. Burning Smell A burning odor is a clear sign that something is wrong with your transmission fluid. This smell often occurs when the fluid has become overheated or contaminated with debris. Contaminated fluid loses its ability to lubricate effectively, causing increased friction and heat within the transmission system. If you detect a burning smell, it’s important to have the transmission fluid checked to prevent further damage. Slipping Gears One of the most noticeable symptoms of contaminated transmission fluid is gear slippage. If your vehicle struggles to stay in gear or shifts gears unexpectedly, it may be due to dirty or degraded fluid. Contaminated fluid can’t create the proper hydraulic pressure needed to keep the transmission working efficiently, leading to gear slippage and poor performance. Unusual Noises Transmission fluid is designed to lubricate the gears and reduce friction. When the fluid is contaminated, it loses its lubricating properties, which can cause grinding, whining, or clunking noises as the transmission shifts gears. Addressing this issue promptly can help prevent more expensive repairs. Delayed or Rough Shifting If your vehicle hesitates or feels rough when shifting between gears, contaminated transmission fluid could be the culprit. When contaminants build up in the fluid, it hinders the transmission’s ability to shift smoothly. Transmission Service in Arlington, TX For transmission service in Arlington, TX and the surrounding area, contact Elite Transmissions at  817-861-6797  . Along with top-quality transmission work, our local mechanics also provide expert bumper-to-bumper auto repair in Arlington, TX. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!