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Glen Cove - North Shore - Nassau County - Long Island - NY - Transmission and Auto Repair

“Very knowledgeable and reassuring as to what needed to be done with a successful..... ” Steven Francis, Glen Cove 
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Not Sure What Your Auto or Transmission Symptoms Mean?
Give us a call today (516) 671-1900
  We will be happy to answer any automotive or transmission question you may have.


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Automotive and Transmission Repair
(516) 671-1900
TRANS-PRO...
The Automotive and Transmission Repair Specialists of Long Island, NY

Serving The Glen Cove, Long Island Community
With Quality Automotive and Transmission Care


Automotive and Transmission Care Tips and Symptoms
Important Questions To Ask Any Repair Shop

  • Do they have the most up to date training and diagnostic equipment?
  • Do they have a good record with the Better Business Bureau?
  • Do they have an electronic information system such as ALLDATA?  These systems contain important factory provided technical and recall information.
  • Do they have ASE Certified Technicians?
  • Are they a member of a reputable organization such as ATRA?
  • Do they guarantee a major repair with at least a 12 month/12,000 mile warranty or more?
  • Do they have a great reputation? Ask your friends, neighbors and family.

TRANS-PRO can answer YES to all of the above questions.  If you have any questions, or if you would like to make an appointment for a complimentary road test please give us a call.  We will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have.


You Get What You Pay For

The bitterness of poor quality lingers long after the cheap price is forgotten.  When making a decision on who to choose for auto repair...your decision should not be based on telephone price shopping alone.



Remember the old saying, "YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR!"  If it sounds too good to be true...it probably isn't!  Unfortunately there are some  shops that do not run their business on a code of ethics.  They will give you a low ball price just to get you in the door.  Or worse...they will use low quality parts, or swap your unit for a junk yard unit.  Bottom line...your just not going to get filet mignon at chopped steak prices.  Trust your instincts.  Ask your general repair mechanic, friends or family for a recommendation of a reputable general repair or transmission repair shop.
Common Symptoms Of A Transmission Problem


  • Leaks under the car
The transmission fluid is reddish in color and you should be able to spot it clearly if you have a leak.  If you notice a consistent slow leak, it is very important that you check your fluid level frequently (daily with normal use) until you are able to visit a qualified transmission facility or shop. If the fluid level goes below the recommended levels, you are at risk of serious transmission damage. 

  • Color and odor
Check your vehicles manual on how to check the transmission fluid.  Most manufacturers require that you check transmission fluid levels when the vehicle is running and on level ground.  Pull the transmission dipstick out and check the fluid for color and odor.  Repeat this step 3 times making sure to wipe after each result and look for a consistent reading.  Transmission fluid is transparent red in color under good condition.  If the fluid is cloudy, muddy brown, or black and/or it smells burnt, you should have it checked out as soon as possible.  It may be a sign that you only need to have your transmission serviced, but if ignored you will definitely run the risk of damage to the transmission.

  • Noises, vibrations, slipping, and shift patterns
Like the noises in your home, you should be aware of your vehicles behavior. An automatic transmission should shift smoothly and quietly under light acceleration.  If your vehicle starts to shift differently than normal, or you hear noises when shifting, you should have it checked out immediately.  Basically, if you never heard that noise, or felt that vibration before...it's a good idea to consider it as a warning sign that you need to have it checked out as soon as you can.  The problem might be something minor, but if left unattended it is sure to become a major problem and an expensive repair in time
Have These
Transmission Symptoms?

  • Slipping
  • Transmission fluid leak
  • Noise or Knocking
  • Loss of Power or Movement
  • Decrease in Gas Mileage
  • Harsh or Erratic Shifting
  • Delayed Engagement

We Can Help
Give Us A Call!
TRANS-PRO
Automotive & Transmission Specialists
(516) 671-1900
Did You Know That Your Transmission Requires Preventive Maintenance?

Preventive Maintenance is the key to keeping repair costs down.  If you have an older vehicle we recommend you have your transmission serviced every 15,000 - 30,000 miles depending on your make/model/year to insure a longer life span for your transmission.  Check your manual for the manufacturers recommendations.

What's In It For You?
  • Saves you money   
  • A more dependable vehicle
  • Less chance of a costly breakdown
  • An intact warranty
  • A vehicle that retains that "new car feel"

Warning About Adding Transmission Fluid Yourself

If you are planning on changing the transmission fluid yourself, please note that not all transmission fluids are the same. Before you add fluid, check the manufacturer recommendations for your make/model/year first. The use of the wrong fluid will lead to early internal parts failure.


Fuel Saving Tips

  • Combine several short trips into one longer trip
  • Use your air conditioner sparingly
  • Avoid jackrabbit starts and abrupt stops
  • Keep tires properly inflated
  • Slow down - 65mph uses 15% more fuel than 55mph
Stuck in the Snow?
Don't Damage Your Transmission!

  • Try this old time remedy.  In the winter carry a bag of sand or kitty litter in your trunk.
  • If you get stuck in the snow, clear the snow from around your tires and point them forward if possible.
  • Sprinkle the sand or litter around the tires to create a surface that will provide traction. 
  • If you do not have sand or litter try placing your car mats under the tires after clearing the bulk of the snow.
Warning About Adding Transmission Fluid Yourself

If you are planning on changing the transmission fluid yourself, please note that not all transmission fluids are the same. Before you add fluid, check the manufacturer recommendations for your make/model/year first. The use of the wrong fluid will lead to early internal parts failure.

Protect Your Investment or Let It Break?
Is Your Vehicle Running in Top Condition?

Preventive Maintenance is the Key!

Oil Change - Tune Up
Fuel Injection
Air Conditioning Service
Transmission Service
Tire Rotation
Wheel Alignment

Give Us A Call Today to Schedule
Your Next Service
(516) 671-1900
Why Should Your Brake Fluid Be Serviced?

For your protection, and to avoid costly repairs it is extremely wise to have this service on a regular maintenance schedule.
Your brake fluid requires regular service because it becomes contaminated by moisture.  How does moisture get into your brake fluid?  Brake fluid is hygroscopic, which means that it magnetically attracts and absorbs moisture from the atmosphere, usually through the brake master cylinder reservoir and brake hoses.

Moisture contamination lowers the boiling point of your brake fluid, even under ordinary driving conditions, it could cause the fluid to boil and release vapor into your brake system.  When this vapor compresses inside the system, you may experience a dangerously low brake pedal.

Moisture contamination can also result in very costly repairs, especially if your vehicle is equipped with ABS type brakes.  When moisture contaminated brake fluid reaches very high temperatures (as much as 450-500 degrees) an electrochemical reaction makes the fluid highly acidic.  The acid breaks down the steel line and rubber hoses and can cause early failure of the cast iron and aluminum components in your brakes.
Common Symptoms of Brake Problems

  • The brake light on the dash is lit.
  • You feel grinding during braking.
  • You hear a screeching noise.
  • The vehicle pulls to one side when applying the brake.
  • Lastly, you don't stop.
Why Perform A Fuel Injection Service?

Dirt, varnishes and carbon deposits form in the fuel system, the intake valves, and in the combustion areas of all vehicles.  These build-ups can reduce performance and if left untreated can lead to costly engine repairs.

Symptoms related to carbon build-up are:

  • Engine pinging
  • Hesitation, lack of power
  • Poor acceleration
  • Repeated stalling or poor performance
             when cold
  • Rough idle
  • Poor fuel economy

The fuel Carbon Cleaning System is a revolutionary new process that will clean the fuel system, including injectors and remove harmful carbon deposits.  This system utilizes a unique cleaning solution that will not damage the vehicle's sophisticated engine components.  Once this service is performed, a noticeable improvement in performance, acceleration, and increased fuel economy can be seen.
Why Should Your Air Conditioning Be Serviced?

Don't wait until you need your air conditioning in hot weather to find out that your vehicle is low on freon.

You need the A/C even in the winter months. Did you know that every time you turn on the defrost, your air conditioning compressor must dry the air before the defroster directs it to your windshield? 

Your air conditioning system should be checked for proper operation, and freon charge at least once a year.  Insufficient freon can damage the compressor, expansion valve, and seals, resulting in costly repairs.  Maintaining the proper amount of freon is extremely important to ensure that the refrigerant oil is carried through your air conditioning system to lubricate moving parts and seals.
Understanding Warning Lights and Gauges

Do You Know What Your Warning Lights and Gauges Are Telling You?

Your vehicle is equipped with warning lights and gauge's on your instrument panel that will light up if a malfunction occurs.  Each indicator can help prevent major damage to your vehicle.  It is a good idea to routinely check to make sure that all the warning lamps light up when you first turn your vehicle on.  If one or more of the lamps do not light up, have the lamp(s) checked as soon as possible.

Below is a list of the most important indicators. It is important that if you are not familiar with the components under the hood of your vehicle that you do not touch or tinker with any of them.  It would be in your vehicles best interest, as well as your safety to allow your mechanic to deal with it.


Temperature Light - The temperature light or gauge registers coolant and engine temperature.  If the gauge starts climbing it means that your engine is overheating.  If this ever happens to you, try turning OFF the air conditioning if in use, and turn the heater ON HIGH to see if the gauge drops to a normal level.  If the temperature does not drop to a normal level, turn the engine off and call for help.

Important - Two very important warnings if your car is over heating:        

  • DO NOT try to remove the radiator cap on a HOT engine.  REPEAT…Never, never, ever remove the radiator cap while the engine is hot.
  • DO NOT continue to drive an overheating vehicle.  If you do, the result will be major engine damage.


Alternator - The alternator light or gauge registers the efficiency of the charging system.  If the light comes on when you are driving:
  • Pull over to the side of the road, put the car in park.
  • Leave the engine running, and check under the hood to see if the alternator belt is missing or loose.  If the alternator belt seems okay, go back into your car and turn off all unnecessary accessories and lights. 
  • Drive directly to your auto mechanic to have the electrical system checked.
  • DO NOT drive your car if the belt is missing, loose, or damaged.  Raise the hood and call for help.

Oil Pressure - The oil pressure light or gauge registers engine oil pressure.  If the light comes on or the gauge reads low:

  • DO NOT continue to drive your car. 
  • Pull over and turn the engine off. 
  • Raise the hood and check the oil level.  If it is low, add the necessary oil.  If the oil level is fine, do not drive the vehicle.  Call for help.


Check Engine - The check engine light informs you of electronic engine control, emissions, and fuel injection malfunctions.  When this indicator lights up a qualified auto technician is needed.  Fault codes are stored in the computers memory for the technician to diagnose the malfunction. 

You do not have to pull over immediately if the car is NOT displaying signs of trouble, however you should have your vehicle checked as soon as possible. 
If your car is displaying obvious drivability problems with the check engine light lit, DO NOT drive your vehicle, have it checked out immediately.


Brake Warning - The brake warning light informs the driver of brake hydraulic system malfunction or failure.  If this light comes on:
  • Stop the vehicle and check the brake master cylinder fluid level.
  • If the fluid level is low, top up the master cylinder. 
  • Have the hydraulic brake system checked immediately.

If your vehicle is equipped with ABS (Antilock Brake System), there is also a separate warning indicator for the ABS system.  The light will come on if the ABS system has a fault.  Normal braking remains, and it will be safe to drive provided you will not have to call on your ABS system.  Have the ABS serviced as soon as possible.
The Ripple Effect

“My repair bill was $2,500 for a loose clamp on a radiator hose?  How Come?”   It wasn’t the clamp that cost the big bucks, it was the damage the loose clamp caused.

Here is a perfect example of how a situation can snowball…and cause a ripple effect:

Harold detected the odor of antifreeze from his overheating engine, but he was late for work already and decided he would check it later.  After returning to his parked car, he saw a puddle underneath which he had not noticed before. He didn’t notice a  “check engine” light, so he shrugged his shoulders and figured he would have it checked by his mechanic on his day off, and he continued driving the car over the next few days.  BAD DECISION!

While on an unexpected drive to the airport, the little leak became a big gush.  With a repair facility nowhere in sight, Harold decided to continue driving until he came to a repair facility.  By the time he found one, the engine was making horrible noises and overheating.  Unknowingly, Harold turned a simple loose clamp into a major engine and transmission repair.

It happens everyday, according to the Car Care Council, who emphasizes that most catastrophic auto repairs could be avoided with immediate attention, and regularly scheduled preventive maintenance.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Serving the Glen Cove, Long Island, Nassau, Suffolk, Brooklyn, Queens, NYC area.  Call for easy directions - we are closer than you think!
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