Mini Cooper Automatic Transmission Repair
There are two types of transmission: automatic and manual. In an automatic car, there is no gear shift or clutch pedal. As the name suggestions, the process of gear changing is done without any need for user input.
The transmission is a very complex system that handles the engine’s power through to the driveshaft. Due to the fact that it’s made up of many moving mechanical parts that all interact with each other, it produces a lot of friction and thus general wear and tear.
The primary components that make up the automatic transmission are:
- Planetary gear sets: unlike in a manual, these gears don’t physically move and are formed in a system of interconnecting rings
- Torque converter: like a clutch and allows the car to come to a stop when in gear
- Hydraulics: a system which sends fluid to the clutches and bands to control the gear sets
- Control system: a computer which handles shift points and directs electrical current to specific components
Mini Cooper Transmission Problems
The transmission is one of the most expensive things to get repaired. As such, it’s important to be aware of any signs that the transmission in the Mini Cooper is failing. Adhering to the Inspection 1 and 2 schedules as outlined by Mini will ensure that your transmission lasts longer, but you should still be aware of transmission failure symptoms so that you can rectify them early.
Some of the most common signs of transmission problems are:
- Leaking fluid: automatic transmission fluid allows the entire system to run and it’ll cease to operate without it – if it’s leaking then there’s a problem, especially if it’s coloured dark.
- Delayed engagement: if there’s a delay when coming from drive into park before you feel gear engagement
- Burning smell: this could be the transmission fluid overheating, caused from the system running too hot
- Shaking gear changes: if the car isn’t smoothly transitioning gears and is instead jarring
Transmission Maintenance
One way of helping maintaining your transmission is to flush the system. This process removes all of the transmission oil by running a combination of new oil and cleaning solutions through. This then pushes out the sludge that has mounted inside.
If the fluid comes out black, this is a sign of a bad transmission as it should be red and clear by standard. If this is the case, you need to have your transmission inspected. Note that this is a preventative maintenance process and will not resolve any problems you’re having.
Transmission Repair
German Car Depot will be able to check your transmission to ensure the system’s health and also repair any problems you might be having. We can offer prices that are cheaper than dealerships, but can still offer the great level of service that you’d expect.