Is Differential Fluid Different From Transmission Fluid?

Differential fluid and transmission fluid may seem similar, but they actually serve different purposes. Differential fluid helps to lubricate the gears in your car, while transmission fluid helps to cool and protect the transmission components. Transmission fluid should be checked regularly to ensure that it is at the correct level and condition. Differential fluid does not need to be checked as often, but it is important to check it periodically to make sure that it is clean and at the correct level.

Continue reading to learn details about these differences and more.

Car Engine Repair and Automotive Service in Indianapolis Indiana. Call 317-475-1846 Today!
Automotive Service in Indianapolis Indiana. Call 317-475-1846 Today!

A Comparison of Transmission Fluid and Differential Fluid

Differential fluid is a type of oil that helps to lubricate the gears in your car’s differential. This helps to prevent wear and tear on the gears, as well as reducing noise and improving fuel efficiency. Transmission fluid, on the other hand, is a type of oil that helps to lubricate the gears in your car’s transmission. This helps to prevent wear and tear on the gears, as well as reducing noise and improving shift quality. So, what’s the difference between these two types of fluids?

Differential fluid is thicker than transmission fluid, which means that it can provide better lubrication for the gears in your differential. This can help to prolong the life of your differential and improve its performance. Transmission fluid, on the other hand, is thinner than differential fluid, which means that it can provide better lubrication for the gears in your transmission. This can help to prolong the life of your transmission and improve its performance.

Differential fluid is also designed to withstand higher temperatures than transmission fluid. This means that it can better protect the gears in your differential from heat damage. Transmission fluid, on the other hand, is designed to withstand lower temperatures than differential fluid. This means that it can better protect the gears in your transmission from cold damage.

You Can Benefit From Both Fluids

So, which type of fluid is right for you? If you’re looking for the best possible performance and protection for your car, then you should use differential fluid in your differential and transmission fluid in your transmission. However, if you’re looking for the best possible value, then you should use transmission fluid in both your differential and transmission. Whichever type of fluid you choose, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the best results.

Choose Professional Auto Service

Regularly scheduled car maintenance is important to keep your vehicle running smoothly and prolonging the life of your car. While you may be tempted to save a little money and do the work yourself, it’s important to take the advice of your Indianapolis mechanic when it comes to routine car maintenance. They have the experience and knowledge to keep your car in good condition, and they can also help identify any potential problems before they become bigger issues. Neglecting factory scheduled car maintenance can lead to costly repairs down the road, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution and let the professionals take care of things.

Are you looking for a qualified and affordable Indianapolis auto repair shop that won’t charge unfair rates for car repair or maintenance? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

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How to Identify a Transmission Fluid Leak in Your Car

If your car is leaking transmission fluid, it will typically leave a trail of reddish-brown fluid under the vehicle. In some cases, you may also notice a burning smell or see smoke coming from the area where the leak is located. If you think your car might be leaking transmission fluid, it’s important to have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. Transmission fluid leaks can cause serious damage to your car’s transmission and should be repaired as soon as possible.

Continue below to learn how to identify a transmission fluid leak in your car.

Transmission Repair  Indianapolis Indiana 317-475-1846
Transmission Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-475-1846

How Does a Car Transmission Work?

A car transmission is a metal box that contains the gears that transfer power from the engine to the wheels. The torque converter is what transfers the power from the engine to the transmission. The transmission then sends it to the differential, which is connected to the wheels. The transmission has two main parts: the gearbox and the clutch. The gearbox is what contains the gears that transfer power from the engine to the wheels. The clutch is what disengages the engine from the transmission so that the car can change gears.

There are two types of transmissions: manual and automatic. Manual transmissions have three pedals: the clutch, the brake, and the gas pedal. Automatic transmissions have two pedals: the brake and the gas pedal. The clutch is what allows the car to change gears. It is located between the engine and the transmission. The clutch disengages the engine from the transmission so that the car can change gears.

Causes of a Transmission Fluid Leak

Transmission fluid leaks are one of the most common problems car owners tend to face. Transmission fluid leaks can be very dangerous and can cause your car to break down. If you think you have a transmission fluid leak, it is important to take your car to an Indianapolis mechanic right away.

There are a few different ways that transmission fluid can leak. The most common way is through a hole in the transmission. Another way is when the seals around the transmission start to leak. Transmission fluid leaks can also happen when the gaskets or O-rings start to leak.

Signs of Transmission Fluid Leaks

If you notice a pool of fluid underneath your car, it is likely that you have a transmission fluid leak. Transmission fluid is typically red in color, so if you see a reddish fluid, it is most likely transmission fluid. Another way to tell if you have a transmission fluid leak is by checking the level of transmission fluid using the dip stick. If the fluid level is low, it is likely that there is a leak. Transmission fluid leaks can lead to serious problems if they are not fixed, so it is best to get them fixed as soon as possible.

If you think you have a transmission fluid leak, it is important to take your car to an auto repair shop in Indianapolis so they can fix the problem. Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for transmission repair in Indianapolis, Indiana you can afford. We also offer auto service coupons and discounts!

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How to Use Engine Braking to Extend the Life of Car Brakes

If you haven’t heard of a car care strategy known as engine braking, you will be glad you came across this blog. Extending the components and systems within your vehicle ultimately extends its life. And engine braking will contribute to this objective. Continue below to learn what engine braking is, why it is beneficial, and most importantly, how to do it!

Car Brake Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-475-1846
Car Brake Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-475-1846

Engine Braking Basics

How do you reduce your speed when driving? You use the brake pedal, of course! Pressing on the brake is the go-to instinct of all drivers who want to slow their vehicles down or come to a stop. But did you know that routinely pressing the brake can impact your car’s performance and safety? Fortunately, there is more than one way to brake. Enter engine braking.

Engine braking is a driving technique that slows your car down by simply releasing your foot from the brake pedal, then shifting the gears down, one by one. This can be done in both manual and automatic transmission vehicles.

In a manual transmission vehicle, after you take your foot off the brake, keep it off, and then shift down through each gear until it is time to stop completely or gas back up. In automatic vehicles, release your foot from the pedal, then let the car slow down on its own. It is not recommended to use engine braking too often in automatic transmission vehicles.

Benefits of Engine Braking

Engine braking is an easy-to-do driving strategy that can extend the life of your car brakes and improve your vehicle’s overall efficiency. How does it work? In plain language, engine braking limits the amount of airflow sent to the engine, which causes the engine to decrease the speed of the wheel revolutions. There are many more benefits of engine braking. It reduces the rate of wear and tear on your car’s braking system and engine, especially in the case of long descents down steep roads or hills. Engine braking also increases your fuel economy, giving you better gas mileage. And, although not entirely true for automatic vehicles, engine braking is not harmful to your manual transmission so long as you do not let the RPMs go close to or above the red line on the dashboard gauge.

How to Engine Brake Safely

Engine braking is more than just taking your foot off the brake pedal and down shifting through each gear. There are some other good driving practices you must follow to protect your engine and transmission.

First, never shift down to a low gear when you are still driving fast. High speeds are not conducive to safe engine braking at low gears.

Also, it is very important to go through each gear. Avoid skipping a gear, as this can put a lot of strain on your transmission and engine.

Last, engine braking is a great driving tool, but not one to be overused. Too much engine braking can have adverse effects on your car.

Are you looking for professional car brake repair or maintenance in Indy? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional, ASE-licensed car brake repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Check out our auto shop coupons, too!

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Here’s How to Tell if Your Transmission is Failing

Just because you own a car doesn’t mean you’re expected to be an expert mechanic. However, there are certain signs and symptoms you can keep an eye out for that may indicate a specific problem within your vehicle. Take your Transmission for example. Continue reading to learn the most common signs of failing transmission, and where to go in Indianapolis for superior automotive repair and service you can trust.

Indianapolis Transmission Repair 317-475-1846
Indianapolis Transmission Repair 317-475-1846

Common Problems Related to a Failing Transmission

There are many signs and symptoms that indicate a faulty or defective transmission, from whining, clunking, humming to slipping gears, dragging clutch, grinding, shaking, and more. However, the most common and detectable indications that your transmission is failing include burning smells, gear slipping issues, fluid leaks, and an illuminated check engine light.

Burn Smells

Do you smell something burning when you drive your car? This could be the transmission fluid burning up, which also means your transmission is overheating. So, if this is happening to you, it is likely due to low transmission fluid levels or very dirty transmission fluid content.

Gear Problems

If your car is refusing to go into gear, slipping gears, or a combination of both, you can safely assume it has to do with the problem within your transmission. If your cars refusing to go into gear, the most common causes are low or thickened transmission fluid, or because your shift cables or clutch linkage needs readjusting.

Fluid Leaks

Your transmission fluid plays a vital role in the overall operation and safety of your vehicle. As mentioned earlier, if you transmission fluids are low, your car will begin to show signs of trouble. If you have a leak in your transmission, then it is not capable of maintaining the proper fluid levels required to properly lubricate the inner workings of your transmission and engine. So, if you notice puddles of liquid underneath your car after it’s been sitting for a while, it could be a transmission leak.

Illuminated Check Engine Light

You can think you are check engine light for a number of warnings. On the other hand, it can be quite frustrating trying to figure out why your check engine light is on since there are so many reasons it could be. But if your check engine light does come on, it could very well be your transmission. Be sure to take it into an automotive mechanic to have it diagnosed before any further damages done to your vehicle.

Are you looking for an expert automotive mechanic for reliable auto repair and service? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional auto repair service in Indianapolis, Indiana at a price you can afford. We work on all make and model vehicles.

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Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Top Options for Transmission Repair and Replacement

If the performance of your car or truck engine is noticeably degenerating, you may have a transmission problem on your hands.  When it comes to transmission work, only a licensed and trained auto mechanic can diagnose engine and transmission issues.  It is complicated and tedious work that requires the skill and experienced of a trained professional.  Be sure to always act fast if transmission or engine problems occur in your vehicle. 

Take it to a reputable service garage and get reliable and educated answers on transmission repair and replacement options. Continue below to do just that!

ASE Certified Transmission Repair
ASE Certified Transmission Repair 317-475-1846

Transmission Repair Services

In some cases, a transmission can be saved, especially if the damage has only recently occurred. Waiting too long to get an engine problem looked at can result in more severe damages. In the case that a mechanic can repair a transmission, you might want to consider getting it fixed. If the transmission is newer, this is a good option. The mechanic will have a better understanding about the condition and potential of the engine. They can give the best advice on what type of repair you should pursue. If the damage is too extensive, the price of repair can be very high; so it is more economical to replace the part entirely.

Transmission Replacement

When the damages to a car transmission are too severe, repairing it can be extremely expensive or not possible at all. At this point, it is more practical to buy a new one altogether. It is a fact that transmissions are pricey; but there are some other options for a person on a budget. Many car scrap yards and other auto companies sell refurbished or used car transmissions. Buying a used or re-manufactured transmission is a resourceful option. Many people recycle old cars and sell car parts that are still in working condition. You can get virtually-new parts at a fair price, and used units for less than a new one. Although the life span of a used auto part isn’t very long, it’s a good fit for a budget-conscience buyer.

If a used auto part isn’t something that interests you, purchasing a new one can be done. This is an expensive option, and sometimes, not an option at all. It depends on the year, make, and model vehicle that needs it. Sometimes, new transmissions aren’t available, so replacing it with a used one is the only option. As mentioned before, a licensed mechanic can give you all this necessary information once an inspection is completed on your vehicle.

Indianapolis Transmission Repair and Service By ASE Certified Mechanics

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional Indianapolis transmission repair and automotive services you can trust. We have been helping Hoosiers repair and maintenance their vehicles for over 20 years, while offering affordable prices and reliable work. You can schedule a free inspection and estimate, anytime! We can even assist with tows! Don’t forget to mention one of our Indianapolis car repair coupons or discounts to get the best deal in town.

Do Manual Cars Get Better Fuel Mileage Than Automatics?

Gas mileage is huge these days in the car buying market. Everyone wants to do good by the environment as well as their wallets. So when people are shopping around for a new vehicle, the common question concerning transmissions is guaranteed to arise. Should you buy a manual, stick shift car, or a more simple, modern-day automatic? The question has stimulated debates for decades, and is still, for the most part, quite undecided. This is because there is a thin line between which type is better for fuel economy.

Continue reading to learn more about transmissions and fuel consumption, as well as, what to do if you are concerned about your vehicle’s performance.

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Gas Mileage Factors to Consider

Manual or automatic? That is the question; right? Well, the answer depends on many factors, namely the make and model of the vehicle, and the manner or style of driving you intend on doing. You see, in older automatic transmissions, a torque converter is used to couple the engine between gears, which in turn, burns more fuel and therefore, affects gas mileage. Oppositely, manual transmissions do not use a torque converter, but rather, a clutch.

So, if you are looking to buy a used, older vehicle, a manual might be more fuel efficient than an older, automatic transmission vehicle. On the other hand, newer make and model automatic transmissions are manufactured with an overdrive top gear that reduces RPM’s at high speeds, like on the interstate. They are also designed with 5, 6, or 7 speeds. All of these features allows for easier and smoother highway cruising and better gas mileage.

As for the type of driving a person does, manual and automatic transmission choices will differ. For example, if a person lives in a busy city area with constant stop-and-go traffic, a manual transmission vehicle could save on fuel (up to 2 MPG) because automatics tend to use more energy under these circumstances. If a person does a lot of interstate traveling, and prefers a new model vehicle, an automatic is a better choice for improved gas mileage.

How to Reduce Fuel Consumption

Wish to improve your fuel consumption in order to get better gas mileage? It all starts with proper car care and diligence. By staying current on inspections, oil changes, engine cleanings, tune-ups, tire rotations, and additional maintenance needs, you can make an instant and meaningful impact on your vehicle’s gas mileage. Another effective way to reduce fuel consumption is to simply drive more efficiently. This means carpooling when you can, avoiding engine revving, avoiding abrupt starting and stopping, and reducing your speed. All these combined can instantly increase your gas mileage by burning less fuel per mile.

If you believe your vehicles fuel consumption is experiencing problems, take it to a licensed mechanic for professional fuel system service and repair. Trained Indianapolis car mechanics retain the proper tools and equipment to diagnose fuel system problems and much more.

Indianapolis Car Maintenance and Care

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We’re ASE certified car mechanics who provide a wide range of auto repairs and maintenance for both foreign and domestic vehicles, including transmission repairs, fuel system repairs, and general automotive maintenance services. We also provide several amenities, such as free written estimates, flexible drop off and pickup hours, and more.