The transmission in your Honda is a complex piece of precision engineering. And many drivers wonder: how can I tell if my Honda needs transmission service? While transmissions can often run 100,000 miles or more without needing a scheduled service, there are a few indications to bring your vehicle to your local Honda dealership to have expert technicians take a look at your transmission.
Honda Dealership Maintenance: 4 Signs Your Honda Needs a Transmission Service
1. Your Owner’s Manual Says It’s Time
Hondas of different eras and with different transmission types will have maintenance needs at different intervals. Thankfully, the engineering team behind your unique Honda have provided a maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual. If your vehicle is coming up on a scheduled service interval for the transmission, it’s important to have that service performed to keep your Honda running optimally.
If you’ve just purchased a Honda with significant miles on the odometer, it’s also worth perusing the vehicle’s service history and comparing it to the service recommendations in the owner’s manual to ensure your vehicle has had everything it needs.
2. You Spot a Leak
Transmission fluid is a reddish or pinkish oil that keeps the gears lubricated and working smoothly. If you notice a leak underneath the vehicle or see a pool of oil where you last parked, it may be an indication of a transmission fluid leak. While any leak underneath your Honda is concerning, a transmission leak is especially so, since the transmission is a critical part of the drivetrain.
3. The Dipstick Doesn’t Look Right
While not every Honda has a dipstick to check the transmission fluid, if your vehicle has one, it’s important to check on your vehicle’s fluid every so often. If your transmission dipstick comes back with insufficient oil, or the oil on the dipstick appears dirty, it’s time to schedule a fluid change.
Additionally, you shouldn’t see metal shavings in transmission fluid. If you notice metal shavings or particles on your dipstick, it may indicate damage to the gears and mechanisms, and indicates a need to have an expert take a look.
4. Your Transmission Isn’t Acting Right
Whether it’s a stick-shift, automatic, or CVT, your Honda should shift gears smoothly and easily. If you notice signs that your transmission’s performance has changed, such as sluggishness in shifting gears or general underperformance, it’s time to have it looked at. Additionally, your transmission shouldn’t thunk, clunk, grind, or vibrate. These are signs your transmission may have significant problems, and service is indicated as soon as possible.
If your transmission is in trouble, our team of expert technicians can help. Schedule service for your Honda’s transmission today at Boyd Honda Oxford in Oxford, NC
Connect with us
