Frequently Asked Questions

From basics to specifics, our FAQs cover all you need to know about transmission repair and transmission rebuild.

General

  • DOT Transmissions is located at:
    11220 149 St NW
    Edmonton, AB T5M 1W5
    Visit our contact page for more information here.

  • We are open Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. We are closed on the weekends.

  • ​​We are members of the Automatic Transmission Repair Association (ATRA), are a CAA Approved Auto Repair Service Specialist, and have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.

  • Our team is capable and proficient in all kinds of transmission repair and transmission rebuilds. We can service automatic and manual transmissions on any kind of vehicle regardless of make or model.

  • Scheduling an appointment with DOT Transmission is simple. You can call us at 780-453-3516 or book an appointment through our website. Our team will contact you if you book through our website to confirm your appointment.

  • The amount of time a transmission repair or rebuild will take depends on the complexity of the task. Factors such as ordering parts can also add to repair time. However, most basic repairs can be completed within 2-5 business days, while a full transmission rebuild can take 1-2 weeks.

  • We stand behind our work. This is why we offer two types of warranties depending on transmission repairs, transmission rebuilds, and other services. For full overhaul transmission rebuilds, we offer an unlimited mileage warranty. For more standard transmission repairs, we offer 3 to 6-month warranties.

    If you experience any issues with your transmission after a repair or rebuild, contact us right away, and one of our technicians will happily take a look.

  • Regular maintenance is the key component to prolonging the life of your transmission. This can include:

    • Regular transmission fluid changes

    • Ensuring you’re using the correct transmission fluid

    • Having your transmission flushed regularly

    Regular transmission servicing by professionals is a vital component to ensuring your transmission has a long, healthy life. Always bring your vehicle in immediately at the first sign of any issues. Minor repairs and proactive maintenance can prevent costly repairs or replacements down the line.

  • Some signs that your transmission may need attention include difficulty shifting gears, unusual noises like grinding or humming, the vehicle slipping out of gear, the presence of transmission fluid leaks, and if your check engine light is on. However, the best way to know for sure is to have your vehicle inspected by a professional.

    Signs your transmission may need repair or replacement include:

    • Your ‘check engine light will appear on your dashboard

    • Unusual noises like grinding or humming when trying to change gears

    • Gear slipping, which can cause your car to struggle to accelerate or have difficulty reversing

    • Leaking transmission fluid, which will be bright red or dark red-brown fluid pooling under your car

    If you are experiencing any of the following, a professional must inspect your vehicle as soon as possible.

  • A transmission repair involves fixing specific parts of the transmission that are broken or worn out. In contrast, a transmission rebuild involves disassembling the entire transmission, inspecting all parts, replacing worn or damaged components, and then reassembling it.

Transmission Repair

What are the signs that my transmission needs repair?

Signs you need a transmission repair can include:

  • Your check engine light appears on the dash.

  • A burning smell coming from the vehicle: a foul, smoky odour smell is often an early warning sign of a looming transmission problem. An aged or defective transmission can overheat, causing the transmission fluid to burn.

  • Difficulty shifting gears: If your car struggles to accelerate or reverse, even though the engine is running smoothly, this is often a result of the transmission not being able to shift gears correctly.

  • Transmission fluid under your car: If you see a bright red or dark red-brown fluid pooling under your car, that’s often a clear sign of a transmission fluid leak.

  • Unusual sounds: Whining, grinding, and humming noises, especially when you’re changing gears, can suggest a problem with the transmission’s component.

If your vehicle is experiencing any of the following, it’s crucial you bring it in as soon as you can to be inspected. Proactive repairs can help prevent more costly ones down the line.

  • Your transmission should be inspected at least once a year or every 30,000 miles. However, if you notice any signs of transmission issues, you should bring it in to get checked immediately.

  • The cost varies significantly depending on the problem’s nature and your vehicle’s make and model. At DOT Transmissions, we give written estimates before beginning any work. This way, you can be assured of exactly what needs to be done and how much it will cost. You can request a quote here.

  • Whether to repair or replace a transmission depends on several factors, including the extent of the damage, the age and overall condition of the vehicle, and the cost-effectiveness of each option.

  • Yes, an automatic transmission can certainly be repaired. In fact, regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential to prolonging the life of an automatic transmission and ensuring the smooth operation of your vehicle.

  • The longevity of a transmission repair can vary depending on various factors, including the extent of the repair, the quality of the repair work, the overall condition of the transmission, and how well the vehicle is maintained afterward.

Transmission Rebuild

  • The cost varies significantly depending on the problem’s nature and your vehicle’s make and model. At DOT Transmissions, we give written estimates before beginning any work. This way, you can be assured of exactly what needs to be done and how much it will cost. You can request a quote here.

  • During a rebuild, any worn or damaged parts are replaced. This typically includes parts like seals, gaskets, clutch components, and bands. Sometimes, more significant parts like gears need to be replaced.

  • Whether it’s better to rebuild a transmission or replace it with a new one depends on several factors, including the specific issues with the current transmission, the cost, and the age and overall condition of the vehicle.

    A transmission rebuild is typically more cost-effective, while a complete transmission replacement may mean a longer lifespan. However, a new transmission is typically more expensive and may not be necessary if the issues in your current transmission are relatively minor or localized.

  • The lifespan of a rebuilt transmission can vary based on several factors, including the quality of the rebuild, the driving conditions, and how well the transmission is maintained after the rebuild.

    If a transmission is properly rebuilt by a skilled mechanic, it can often last between 100,000 to 200,000 miles or even more. The key to a long-lasting rebuilt transmission is addressing all the existing problems during the rebuild, using high-quality parts, and ensuring everything is assembled correctly.

  • Absolutely, you can trust a transmission rebuild, provided it’s done by a reputable, skilled mechanic or transmission specialist. A properly rebuilt transmission can perform just as well as a new one and can significantly extend the lifespan of your vehicle.