Automatics

Automatic Transmissions

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In our 49 years of trading we’ve learnt a thing or two about automatic transmissions. We are one of the premier reconditioning and rebuilding specialists in New Zealand, and we  guarantee all our serviced transmissions and gearboxes have followed the same strict processes. 

Before the vehicle is serviced, it is given a free, no obligation test drive to identify any issues it may present with, which may not be fixed with a service.

As long as you have made a booking, we are normally able to complete a service within 1- 1 1/2 hours and have a waiting room available for your use, should it suit you to wait. (Subject to workload on any given day).

Once your service is completed, and the oil changed with the correct grade, it is then test driven to ensure it is operating satisfactorily.

If you are interested in servicing for your automatic transmission, Contact Us or drop in to The Gearbox Factory and have a talk with us, we're happy to help.
 

Standard Automatic Servicing

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Your automatic transmission contains a large quantity of transmission fluid that lubricates parts, transfers heat and transmits power to the wheels.

This fluid deteriorates with time and heat.  As the oil breaks down, contaminants form and your transmission will start wearing prematurely.  Modern automatic transmissions are extremely complex and sensitive to contaminant and sludge build up.

The most effective thing you can do to extend the life of your transmission and keep it working correctly is to carry out regular transmission flushing to remove contaminants and replace the fluid.  In addition your transmission may also require a filter change at specific intervals.

We carry a full range of transmission fluids to match your requirements whether it is for a Jaguar Mark 2 or a late model BMW with a ZF transmission.

Due to the large variations in modern transmission we advise you to call or email us so we can give a specific recommendation for your vehicle.
 

European Transmission Servicing

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European vehicles have their own specific requirements.  Specialist knowledge and equipment is required when servicing these vehicles.  Specific transmission fluids are required along with special procedures to check the oil level.

Despite many handbooks stating the transmission fluid is “filled for life”, the design life of a transmission is 100,000kms.  Typically by this point, the transmission fluid is very dark and full of contamination from wear and tear.

We strongly recommend all European vehicles are serviced at this time to extend their working life.  It is also important that the transmission computer, or ECU is scanned on European vehicles during a service.  By clearing historic fault codes and resetting the ECU, better shift quality often results.  Due to the technical nature of these procedures, most workshops will not do this as they do not have the specific knowledge.

Correctly maintained, your automatic should give you many trouble free miles.  When problems do occur the best advice is to seek professional help as soon as possible to avoid a minor ailment becoming a major one. 

 

Towing with your Automatic

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Towing a trailer or boat can place severe loads on a transmission and shorten its life.  Follow the guidelines below to help your transmission survive towing.  (Please consult your owner's manual for specific requirements).

Use lock low “L”

When you’re on the boat ramp or pulling a load up a steep incline, manually shift your transmission into the “L” position.  Shift the lever manually up into drive, as you begin moving.

Avoid using overdrive

Cancel the OD.  If you don’t have an OD cancel button then manually shift the transmission into “3” to stop it shifting into overdrive.


 

Cooler Kits

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Overheating is one of the biggest causes of premature transmission failure (over 80%) so it makes sense to add extra cooling.  We have a range of cooler kits to suit your vehicle and its intended purpose.  Many factory systems do not supply sufficient cooling, especially as the vehicle gets older and the radiator unit begins to lose its efficiency.  We strongly recommend cooler units for RV’s, or any vehicle that is used for towing.