KC Martin Transmissions OFFICIAL Blog
Transmission Care: 8 Tips that Give You the Best Chance at a Longer Lasting Transmission
by KC Martin Transmissions on 10/26/18
- Get your transmission serviced by a professional every 30,000 miles or about every 2 years. NO, not everyone does this, in fact, very few people realize it should be done this often. But, even if you’re a little off-schedule, you really should ask to have this done, because it is a low-cost preventative measure. This service drains old fluid, gives you a new filter, and cleans the transmission pan out. And, yes, 99% of you need to have this done by an experience professional.
- When the fluid is changed, either ask your professional or take their recommendation for synthetic fluid. They tend to resist heat better, resist cold better, and provide overall better performance. Your transmission professional will help direct you, but do not skimp because it saves very little money to go away from these new synthetic fluids.
- Check your transmission fluid frequently…..well, have your professional do it anyway. Low levels and dirty transmission fluid are the biggest problems for your transmission. A low fluid level makes your transmission susceptible to overheating. Ideally, you want to get a look at this monthly, but if you take your car in for oil changes with your trusted mechanic, see if they can check it for you then.
- Take it easy on your car or truck’s transmission by either warming them up for a few minutes or at least going easy for the first two or three miles while the transmission warms up.
- Always, always, ALWAYS use your emergency brake while parking on an incline or decline. This reduces stress on your car’s parking pawl (or parking pin) which could actually brake or become dislodged and your car would then roll on its own—scary!
- Don’t overload your vehicle with more weight than the manufacturer recommends. This can apply to pickup trucks, but also towing equipment or trailers. This can strain the belt and lead to the transmission overheating
- Never OVERFILL your transmission fluid. In most cases, you probably shouldn’t be adding fluid anyway (try to leave it to a professional and their recommendation), but if you do add some, make careful note of the car manual’s directions. An overfill can cause foaming, which no longer protects your transmission properly.
- Maintain your vehicle’s cooling system properly. A maintenance of the cooling system should also be done every two years. Ask your mechanic about the shape of your system and don’t hesitate to invest in proper cooling operation. WHY? Because, heat from the car’s engine will quickly wear on your transmission, and in all cases, you should do whatever you can to avoid excess heat. Your mechanic can change the anti-freeze, look for leaks and damage, do a radiator cap pressure test, and change hoses as necessary.
Recognition for KC Martin Transmissions and What It All Means
by KC Martin Transmissions on 05/21/18
KC Martin Transmissions focuses on "The Right Thing To Do"
by KC Martin Transmissions on 01/17/18
Beware the Dangers of Automatic Transmission Fluid Additives
by KC Martin Transmissions on 08/07/17
What Will Transmission Work Cost? You're Asking the WRONG Question.
by KC Martin Transmissions on 03/29/17
The Best Transmission Shops in Seattle Area: KC Martin Transmissions Makes the Grade!
by KC Martin Transmissions on 01/27/17
Your Car's Clutch and Signs It May Need To Be Replaced
by KC Martin Transmissions on 10/24/16
1. Be on the look-out for your vehicle slipping out of gear. This is a common problem sign of a worn out clutch or oil leaks.
2. Watch out for the clutch sticking. When the pedals either become harder to disengage or press upon you should get your clutch inspected. It may not mean that your clutch is broken but there may be some problem with linkage or a leak in your system that needs to be fixed.
3. You will also want to take note of any burning smell or smoke coming from underneath the vehicle. This can indicate that there is a plate problem, overheating or other clutch damage.
Transmission Flush: When does your car or truck need it?
by KC Martin Transmissions on 06/06/16
Finding a Trusted Auto Repair Shop - How do we stack up?
by KC Martin Transmissions on 02/29/16
Manual or Automatic Transmission: Which is best for you?
by KC Martin Transmissions on 10/17/15
The Main Enemy of your Transmission? Summer Heat!
by KC Martin Transmissions on 07/10/15Summer is really heating up in the Puget Sound area but as we continue on this streak of hot temperatures, you've got to watch out for your car. Did you know that an overwhelming amount of transmission problems and failures are caused by the car getting too hot? Overheating your car could cost you thousands of dollars in a transmission rebuild. As your car expels heat the hot air travels up from your engine to your transmission and transmission cooler. This also heats up the fluid in your transmission lines. Heated fluid can lead to malfunction of the clutch, burning of the seals, and formation of varnish.
Transmission Servicing: How KC Martin can take even better care of you!
by KC Martin Transmissions on 02/10/15Your transmission uses fluid that functions to keep the transmission parts cool. Over time, this fluid needs to be changed out. Why? Because, contaminants eventually build up and decrease the effectiveness of your transmission fluid. If this fluid is ineffective, that means that overheating of the transmission becomes a major concern. One source, at transmissionrepairguy.com, talks about overheating of automatic transmissions being the cause of nearly 90% of transmission failures. It's kind of simple---protect your transmission, by making sure the fluid is still effective in keeping it cool.
Who is ATRA and how can they help YOU?
by KC Martin Transmissions on 10/03/14We know that the transmission is a very specific area of your car. Hopefully it's rare that you have major transmission problems, and you may only need to know the basics in order to stay clear of issues. When problems DO strike, however, you might be surprised to find out just how vital the transmission system is to your car, and just how important it is to have a professional you can trust to diagnose and work on your faulty automatic or manual transmission.
Help us support our Lynnwood Community (especially if you love cars)!
by KC Martin Transmissions on 06/12/14
Clutch Repair and Maintenance--Important for Manual Transmission drivers
by KC Martin Transmissions on 02/26/14
Your car or truck's clutch makes the connection between your car's engine and the transmission. A manual transmission, unlike an automatic is under your direct control. As you accelerate, you need to make adjustments with the clutch to transfer power to the transmission and wheels. The clutch connects the engine to the gearbox.
With that understanding of its basic operation, it's important to pay attention to warning signs that your clutch may need replacement. Keep in mind that a faulty clutch can lead to damage of other vehicle parts making the problem even more costly.
Warning signs of a failing clutch:
- Gear Slippage: If your vehicle starts to slip out of gear or is very jerky when you are driving, you may have a worn clutch that needs to be replaced.
- Clutch Sticks: If your pedals become hard to press, your problem is a loss of pressure between the hydraulic links. While this does not necessarily mean that your clutch is failing, it does mean that you need to have the leaks repaired. Failing to have the repair done can lead to clutch failure.
- A Burning Smell This can result from damage caused by overheating. It could also be a result of normal wear and tear. It can also be a result of "riding the clutch" uphill or in slow moving traffic. Don't ignore it.
While it's important to pay attention to these warning signs, you don't have to become obsessed with concern about your clutch or vehicle in general. However, when one or more of these conditions happen repeatedly, it's time to get into our Lynnwood Transmission shop for a look.
In addition to inspecting the clutch our licensed mechanics will also inspect for other potential problems that can shorten clutch life, including:
- Engine oil leaking onto the clutch
- Transmission fluid leaking onto the clutch
- Clutch linkage problems
- Clutch hydraulic problems (on hydraulically actuated clutches only)
- Flywheel problems
- Mis-alignment problems between the motor, transmission, or bellhousing
Once your vehicle has been inspected and necessary repairs made, it's important to pay attention to its operation once you leave the shop. We recommend that you bring your car back in within about 15 days to make sure everything is working properly and that you're happy with the installation. We warranty the clutch against defective parts or workmanship only; not against failure due to reasons beyond our control. We carefully check each component during replacement.
Clutch Care
Obviously, the way in which you drive your vehicle makes a difference in the length of your clutch's life. Driver error or abuse of the clutch can void your warranty. Driver error/abuse includes:
- Revving the engine excessively when starting out.
- Resting your foot on the clutch pedal.
- "Riding" the clutch (same as resting, but with more pressure)
- Pulling heavy loads necessitating number 1 above.
- Rocking the vehicle from 1st & reverse when stuck in mud or snow.
- Drivers inexperienced in driving stick shift transmissions.
- Slipping the clutch excessively for any reason.
- Lugging the engine/clutch by being in too high of a gear for the vehicle speed.
If you take care in the operation of your clutch the likelihood of problems will be greatly reduced. Allow us to be a help in any way we can, even if you have only minor concerns. Remember: We've been providing Transmission repair Lynnwood WA has been using for over 65 years! We've got you covered. Hope this info has helped!
Want an Accurate Auto Repair Estimate? Just bring the car by!
by KC Martin Transmissions on 09/17/13
We understand that this day and age, folks like to be able to get as much as they can get done by phone or over the internet. It's no different with auto repair. Even if you have an auto repair mechanic that you trust, I'm sure you've researched online what may be wrong with your car. Maybe you've heard a noise and wanted to see what was wrong and what other people are saying that it SHOULD cost to have it fixed. Then, there's all of the people of the area that call and want to know what we charge for certain services (which can vary greatly, depending upon the car you drive). With auto repair, the main principle has not changed: The only way to truly know what needs to be fixed, and what it will cost, is to have a good mechanic examine your vehicle.
We often bring up our successful 65-year history of handling General Auto Repair Transmission Repair Lynnwood, Edmonds, and surrounding areas with integrity. It seems that our best bet to take care of you and your vehicle for the long-term is to be as "hands-on" with your car as possible. This allows us to then be accurate with diagnosis, and with pricing. Auto Repair concerns are usually procrastinated upon, which can be very costly, and mainly it is because of a general distrust of their auto mechanic. It's understandable, but this is simply avoiding the issue. The real problem is that you need to find an auto repair facility that you can trust to do the right thing.
We would ask that if you have any issue with your car (because we don't just do transmissions, we handle ALL of your auto repair needs), that you go ahead and bring it by and allow us to take a look at it. Many times we know very quickly what is wrong, and what it will take to fix it. In Transmission Repair situations and some other areas of your car, diagnosis can be tricky. In any case, we think you'll see that it is much easier and less confusing to have us find out precisely what is wrong, so that you can stop guessing. It's really the ONLY way to get an accurate cost.
Lastly, you have to trust that a business that's been doing this for 65 years is not simply "trapping" you into doing work with us. We also know that you have a life and we do our best to handle your diagnosis and repair in the most timely manner possible. Also, our goal is to have you do the necessary repairs and nothing more. If you give us the opportunity to look at your car the next time something is running incorrectly, then we will show you how painless this process can be. Then you will become another loyal customer for sure.
Car Trouble? Bring. It. By.
Experts in Lynnwood Transmission Rebuilds and Repair!
by KC Martin Transmissions on 07/11/13
Most auto repair shops may list "transmission repair" or "transmission rebuilds" as some of their services, but actually, very few of them have the expertise to do this work. These auto repair facilities handle most of the services they list, but when it comes to transmission work they actually have a lot of that work done by a separate company.
It's part of the reason KC Martin established a second shop-the KC Martin Transmission shop. The idea was that, along with continuing to handle general automotive work, we would have technicians that knew the art that is transmission diagnosis, and could handle transmission work start to finish.
We've trained our own specialists in transmission work and we are renowned for Transmission Repair Lynnwood has been relying on for years. It's a huge asset for us. Even our other location sends the transmission work that comes up at thier shop, over to our shop. Don't worry, you can continue to bring you cars there no matter the issue, we handle the movement between our shops for you.
For a Transmission Rebuild Lynnwood folks need to look no further, and even surrounding areas may want to call us up for our expertise, as we have technicians that have had their hands inside of transmissions for over 30 years, and can diagnose issues as fast as anyone.
When all is said and done we are so confident in our work, that we provide a 2-year, 24,000-mile warranty on all Transmission rebuilds. In fact, we have so much experience doing this, that we can take care of ANY make and model, transmission rebuild, so just bring it by!
Cars for a Cause!
by KC Martin Transmissions on 05/20/13
Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati are the most famous autos made in Italy. Actually, "auto" doesn't do these companies justice. A more appropriate title would be world class masterful works of art would be closer to reality. If you appreciate the fine art of Italian sports cars, you need to join us for the event of the year at the 6th Annual Concours d'Elegance at The Wood - Featuring "All Things Italian on Saturday, July 13, 2013, 1-5pm on the 18th fairway of the Lynnwood Golf Course.
Here's your chance to help support worthy charities and see some works of auto art up close and personal. Make sure you don't miss out. But wait, there's more. In addition to the car show, there will be wine and beer tasting to enjoy. You just don't want to miss out on this grand event, it will be Benissimo!
Hold on, let's shift into reverse. The night before the grand auto show, is our annual Auction at Edmonds Community College, Woodway Hall from 6 to 10pm.
Both events will provide needed funding for worthy organizations and projects such as the effort to build a playground for children in Peru. (Read more about it here: http://www.clubrunner.ca/Portal/story/StoryDetail.aspx?accountid=2695&sid=302333&stid=Club ) KC Martin Transmissions is glad to be associated with projects like this that better our community and our world. We don't just support and sponsor events like this car show/wine-tasting, but I, Erich, actually got the opportunity to go and work on these playgrounds in Peru.
This project in Peru has been very rewarding for all involved, but so have our Christmas Toy Drives, and many other projects that benefit others. We ask that you please consider joining with the KC Martin Automotive family, and come on out to a very fun event for a very good cause.
For more information and tickets go to our website: http://www.clubrunner.ca/Portal/Home.aspx?accountid=2695
And, go ahead and like us on our official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Concours-dElegance-at-The-Wood-Featuring-All-Things-Italian/224507250908658
We have Specials and Coupons for YOU!
by KC Martin Transmissions on 04/17/13
Normally, we use our blog to share some tips or info about your transmission or auto care in general. But, we're over half way through the month of April and we felt the need to direct your attention to a limited time offer for you and your car.
The ASA (Automotive Service Association) is running a special program for the month of April called "Don't Drip and Drive" offering free leak checks at all participating auto repair shops! Car leaks are bad for the environment, and also can cause many of your car's systems to fail prematurely.
Too often folks will procrastinate on getting their vehicle seen by a professional, so KC Martin is proud to call upon its customers to go ahead and come in for a free leak check. AND, as part of the program, the ASA is sponsoring a 10% off coupon that can be applied to any leak repair work that is done. You'll need to print off a coupon from our coupon page, plus you'll need to call and set an appointment for your leak check. This program is only for the month of April though, so hurry up and take advantage of this limited-time offer.
Also, on that very same coupon page, we are proud to share a very new idea for our current and new customers. We are now offering a PUNCH CARD for oil changes! That's right! We're letting you print off a card, and when you buy three oil changes in a 12-month period, you can get the 4th oil change FREE! Both of our KC Martin shops are participating, and YES, you are allowed to share the card between multiple vehicles.
Hopefully, this offer will help to remind you that KC Martin wants ALL of your auto service work, whether it be oil changes, transmission repairs, brakes, engine issues, or alignments.....and anything inbetween! Getting your car's oil changed gives us the opportunity to let you know exactly the level of health of your car or truck is showing. You'll come to find that there's a reason that we've been trusted by Lynnwood, Edmonds, Shoreline and other surrounding area drivers. We stay concerned with what you NEED, and don't prescribe work for no reason.
For our longtime customers, these two "deals" are just two more ways that you can benefit from knowing KC Martin and these ways we like to say "thank you" for your continued service. We look forward to seeing you all very soon. But make sure to call ASAP, because our appointment books are filling up fast!
65 Years in Business!
by KC Martin Transmissions on 03/12/13
Happy Anniversary to US!
This year KC Martin turns 65! From 1948 to today, our company has continued to provide quality service and repairs to customers in the Lynnwood, Edmonds WA, Mill Creek, Mukilteo, Shoreline, Bothell and surrounding areas.
Turning 65 usually means retirement for most of us. In fact, more and more Americans are retiring earlier than that. For KC Martin, it is a milestone representing a lifetime of superior performance and dedication to our customers.
We may be turning 65 this year, but in some ways we're just getting started! As you may know, the Transmission shop has been here for about two decades, but adding a second shop goes to show just how much we have grown with our Edmonds WA and Lynnwood-area customers. There are few businesses these days with a long history in serving the public, particularly in the automotive field. At KC Martin Automotive and Transmissions our reputation is every bit as important as the bottom line, because reputation can make or break a business.
We thought it would be fun to take a look at what was happening in 1948, the year KC Transmissions was founded:
1948 Events & Facts MAJOR EVENTS:
- President Harry S Truman re-elected in upset over Thomas E. Dewey
- President Truman integrates the U.S. Armed Forces
- House Un-American Activities Committee accuses Alger Hiss of spying for the Soviet Union
- U.S. Congress ratifies Marshall Plan, approving $17 billion in European aid
- State of Israel created; admits over 200,000 European war refugees
- Soviet Union seals off land routes to Berlin; West responds with massive airlift of provisions
SPORTS:
- World Series: Cleveland over Boston, 4-2
- Olympics held in London
- "Citation" wins Preakness, Belmont and Kentucky Derby
- Boxer Joe Louis retires
- Babe Ruth dies
FUN FACTS:
- Popcorn sold on a mass scale for the first time
- "Scrabble" introduced
We will continue to post on this blog and on the blog at KCMartin.com in celebration of our 65 years in business. All year we'll come up with fun ideas on this theme.
From everyone at KC Transmissions, thanks for to all our customers for your patronage over the pasts 65 years! We look forward to another 65.