Like it or not the vehicles of today are far more advanced in every way. Functions do not happen simply by mechanical means. There are computers on board which control everything from air flow to the amount of gas which is being used. Having the right balance will make it where the engine can run as efficiently as possible.

If your vehicle has not been to the dealership in the past 2-5 years, or your current repair shop has not offered to check your vehicle for a software update, then you have about an 80% chance of requiring an update. Ask this simple question the next time you see your mechanic, “does your shop have the ability to update my vehicles software if needed?” If they have the famous deer in the headlights look on their face and say no, then you may need to look elsewhere for a repair shop with current training and up to date tools required to properly service your vehicle and keep you safe.

I know a lot of technicians and repair shops that have never performed an update, stating “all that does is mess up the computer, and causes future problems”. They could not be further from the truth. The manufacturers would not spend time and money on correcting their faulty software if they did not need to. With parts becoming more reliable, and vehicles designed to be virtually maintenance free of tune ups until 90,000 miles, we are seeing the need of parts replacement declining as fast as software updates rise.

Recently there were customer complaints of their rear brakes locking up during certain stops, causing loss of vehicle control, which could result in a crash without warning. The vehicle manufacturer inspected the entire braking system, paying special attention to the rear brakes, and found no reason for the brakes to fail. They eventually found the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) computer on about 50,600 vehicles with software programmed to lock up the rear brakes during certain stops. The “Fix” for the Recall consisted of a software update; no special or replacement parts were needed.

As you can see, even cars which are not being enhanced to get more performance are in need of software updates to correct faulty programming. Correcting safety concerns is likely the most important reason to have your vehicle checked for updates. Other issues fixed by software updates may include repairs to the check engine light, transmissions, alternators, and even belt “chirp” noises.

If you are looking for straightforward advice, on all you automotive needs, and would like to deal with people who truly care about you and your vehicle, go to http://www.advancedtireandrepair.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tommy_Nickelson

Related posts

• Maintaining German Cars With Quality German Auto Parts
• Dealing With the Sudden Acceleration of a Vehicle
• Things to Inspect When You Purchase a Used Vehicle

If your brake pads wear down, you drive to a mechanic and have them replaced. If your alternator dies, you buy a new one and have it installed. Same with batteries, filters, hoses, and pumps. It’s inconvenient and the cost is unpleasant, but both are manageable. Transmissions are an entirely different matter. They can (and should) last for years. But, when they fail, they’re enormously expensive to fix or replace.

The good news is that not all signs of trouble herald a costly overhaul. Some can be fixed inexpensively. Below, we’ll revisit the main components of your transmission and some of the factors that can cause a glitch. We’ll also explore your options with regard to having problems resolved.

Reviewing The Basic Structure

Your vehicle’s tranny is a complex assembly of parts. They work fluidly with each other to shift gears at optimal times given the conditions in which you’re driving. To keep things relatively simple, we’ll address the main elements and ignore the rest.

The gears (including the ring, planet, and sun gears) are the cornerstone of your car’s transmission. While every component of your tranny is essential, the gears are responsible for your ability to drive at a speed faster than a snail’s crawl.

Fluid is another critical factor. In the same way motor oil is vital to the health of your vehicle’s engine, the red fluid that courses through your transmission is also crucial. And in the same way oil collects debris over time, so too, does the fluid in your tranny. That’s why a filter is necessary – to catch the debris before it enters the assembly.

Being aware of the parts that comprise the basic structure makes is easier to diagnose problems when they occur.

Factors That Can Cause Problems

Most problems happen as the result of low fluid levels or worn parts. Oddly, though many drivers will routinely check their motor oil level, they’ll neglect to check the fluid level in their car’s tranny. Get into the habit of checking it two or three times each year. Otherwise, a leak may form and go unnoticed, eventually causing damage throughout the assembly.

Leaks can form in a few places, including near the selector shaft, speed sensor, or at a number of seals or gaskets. In most cases, the fluid will have a reddish hue, making it easy to identify. Keep in mind that leaks will not go away on their own. You’ll need to have a trained mechanic fix them.

What Are Your Repair Options?

Again, not every transmission problem suggests an overhaul or replacement is necessary. Leaks, in particular, can usually be fixed by resealing them. If parts are worn out, your mechanic may be able to replace them without removing the assembly from your vehicle. If he doesn’t need to lift the tranny, replacing worn parts will be relatively inexpensive.

If you do need to have your vehicle’s transmission overhauled or replaced, prepare yourself for a hefty repair bill. Whether your mechanic overhauls the existing assembly or replaces it with a remanufactured model, both routes will be costly. The silver lining is that your new transmission will last for years.

Related posts

• The Cost of Motoring – Reduce Costs Where You Can
• Car Trouble Symptoms You Should Know
• Used Car Extended Warranties – What to Look For