Homewood’s Trusted Transmission Shops
When your transmission isn’t right, you feel it every time you drive: slipping gears, delayed shifting, burning smells. And small issues can turn into major failures fast. At Rob’e Mans, we diagnose and repair transmission system problems with the same precision you’d expect from a dealership, without the dealership price tag.
With over 100 years of combined experience, our team handles everything from transmission flushes to replacements. Every repair is backed by a 2-year / 24,000-mile warranty, so you can drive with confidence.
A Full Lineup of Transmission Services
We offer comprehensive transmission care for all vehicle types, from routine fluid changes to replacements. Whatever’s going on, we’ll find the cause and fix it right.
No matter the issue, we’ll explain your options clearly and get you back on the road safely.
Signs of Transmission Problems
Whether you’ve got a manual or automatic transmission, it’ll rarely fail overnight. Look for these early warning signs:
Catching these issues early can make the difference between a minor auto repair and a full rebuild.
Transmission Questions Drivers Ask Most
Transmission trouble comes with a lot of uncertainty and big worries. Here are the most common questions drivers bring us and the answers that matter most.
On most cars built before 2010, checking the fluid level is straightforward. Park on level ground, let the engine warm up, then run the shifter through the gears and leave it in Park. Pull the dipstick, wipe it, reinsert it, and pull again to check the level and color.
If the fluid looks dark or has a burnt smell, it’s time for service. But here’s the catch: many newer vehicles—especially European models and cars with CVTs—don’t have a dipstick at all. These sealed transmissions require special tools to check and service, which is why most owners bring them straight to a shop like ours.
Most vehicles need a fluid change every 30,000–60,000 miles, though some modern transmissions can go longer. Always check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation. Fresh fluid and routine maintenance service helps prevent overheating, slipping, and premature wear.
A slipping transmission usually feels like the car changes gears on its own or doesn’t accelerate smoothly. Common signs include:
- High engine revs without a speed increase
- Delayed or harsh gear changes
- A burning smell after driving
- Warning lights on the dash
If you notice these symptoms, have the transmission checked right away. Driving with a slipping transmission can cause severe damage.
A burning smell can mean a lot of things, from engine issues to old brake pads and even electrical system issues. But if you smell it while you’re driving, it could mean the transmission fluid is overheating. Common causes include:
- Low or old fluid that can’t cool properly
- Fluid leaks
- Heavy towing or stop-and-go driving without enough cooling
This is a serious warning sign. Ignoring it can quickly lead to a failed transmission.
The biggest culprit is neglected fluid. Transmission fluid does all the heavy lifting: cooling, lubricating, and keeping parts moving the way they should. When the fluid runs low or gets dirty, heat and friction build up until the transmission wears itself out.
Other common causes we see include:
- Small leaks that go unchecked
- Frequent towing or city driving that overheats the system
- Driving too long with slipping gears
- Using the wrong type of transmission fluid
Staying on top of fluid service is the simplest way to avoid expensive repairs, and it’s something we can check quickly during a preventive car maintenance visit.
Shift Back Into Gear with Confidence
Your transmission is one of the most expensive parts of your vehicle to repair or replace. At Rob’e Mans, we use advanced diagnostics, high-quality components, and seasoned expertise to protect it. Schedule your transmission service today and drive with confidence.