American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission Blog

Your vehicle’s transmission relies on fluid to function properly, providing the necessary lubrication, cooling, and hydraulic pressure to keep gears shifting smoothly. When transmission fluid begins to leak, it can quickly lead to serious problems. Recognizing the warning signs early and visiting an auto repair shop promptly can help prevent transmission failure. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert transmission leak repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here are four signs of a transmission fluid leak that should never be ignored. Red Puddles Under the Vehicle One of the most telltale signs of a transmission fluid leak is the appearance of reddish fluid under your car. Transmission fluid has a distinct color that helps set it apart from other automotive fluids. If you notice puddles or stains where your car is parked, it’s time to get your car checked by a professional. Even small leaks can worsen quickly and lead to expensive damage. Slipping or Hesitation During Gear Shifts If your vehicle hesitates or slips when shifting gears, low transmission fluid levels from a leak could be the culprit. Transmission fluid enables smooth gear transitions, and when the system is low on fluid, it may struggle to engage gears properly. You might notice a delay when shifting from park to drive or an unexpected increase in engine RPMs without a corresponding change in speed. These symptoms indicate a serious issue that should be addressed immediately. Unusual Noises While Driving A transmission that is low on fluid may produce whining, clunking, or grinding noises. These sounds often occur during gear changes or while accelerating. Because transmission components rely on fluid to reduce friction and wear, a leak can lead to increased contact between metal parts, resulting in concerning noises. Ignoring these sounds can lead to further internal damage and much higher repair bills. Burning Smell From Under the Hood Transmission fluid helps regulate the temperature of the system. When fluid levels drop due to a leak, the transmission may overheat. This can cause the remaining fluid to burn, producing a strong, acrid odor. A burning smell coming from under the hood is a serious red flag and often points to overheating or fluid leakage. Continuing to drive under these conditions can cause major damage. Transmission Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need transmission repair in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . At our nearby auto shop , we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Your transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, making it one of the most important systems in your vehicle. When a transmission fails, the repairs can be extensive. However, with a few preventive measures and good maintenance habits, you can help extend the life of your transmission and avoid major issues down the road. Here are four tips for keeping your transmission in top condition. Schedule Regular Transmission Service Like any other critical system in your vehicle, your transmission needs regular maintenance to perform its best. Over time, transmission fluid can break down and become contaminated, leading to overheating and increased wear on internal components. Refer to your owner’s manual to find out how often your vehicle’s transmission fluid should be changed. Regular service usually includes draining the old fluid, replacing the filter as necessary, and refilling with fresh fluid. Staying on top of this schedule can prevent many common transmission problems. Check Fluid Levels and Condition Monitoring your transmission fluid can help you catch potential issues early. Low fluid levels or dirty fluid can indicate a leak or internal problem. Transmission fluid should be bright red or pink and have a clean, slightly sweet smell. If it appears dark or smells burnt, it’s time to have it inspected and replaced. Some vehicles have a dipstick for easy checking, while others may require a technician to evaluate fluid levels. Avoid Aggressive Driving Habits How you drive has a direct impact on your transmission’s health. Rapid acceleration, hard braking, and frequent gear changes can all place unnecessary stress on the transmission. Towing excessively heavy loads can also lead to overheating. By driving smoothly and avoiding excessive strain, you can reduce the risk of damaging the transmission. Address Issues Promptly If you notice symptoms like slipping gears, delayed shifting, or unusual noises, don’t ignore them. These signs often indicate a developing problem that can get worse if left unaddressed. Early intervention could prevent a minor issue from turning into a complete transmission failure. At the first sign of trouble, it’s best to have the mechanic inspect your vehicle and perform any necessary repairs. Transmission Service in Tempe, AZ For expert transmission service in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . At our nearby auto shop, we can skillfully handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Your vehicle’s braking system is one of its most critical safety components. When brakes start to malfunction, it puts you, your passengers, and others on the road at risk. Recognizing early signs of brake trouble can help you avoid more expensive repairs and prevent dangerous situations. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it's important to have your brakes inspected by the mechanic as soon as possible. Squealing or Grinding Noises One of the most obvious signs of brake trouble is unusual noise when you apply the brakes. A high-pitched squealing sound often indicates that the brake pads are worn down and need to be replaced. This sound comes from a built-in wear indicator designed to alert you before damage occurs. If you hear a grinding noise, it likely means the brake pads are completely worn out and metal is grinding against metal, which can severely damage the rotors. Spongy Brake Pedal A brake pedal that feels soft, spongy, or sinks to the floor when pressed is a serious warning sign. This can indicate air in the brake lines or a brake fluid leak, which creates a major safety hazard. These issues can significantly reduce your braking power, increasing the risk of an accident. Vibrations When Braking If you feel vibrations when you apply the brakes, it may signal that the brake rotors are warped or uneven. Warped rotors can occur due to excessive heat buildup. This not only affects the comfort of your drive but also reduces braking efficiency, especially during emergency stops. Warning Light on the Dashboard Modern vehicles are equipped with sensors that monitor the braking system. If the brake warning light or ABS (anti-lock braking system) light comes on, it means the system has detected a potential problem. While it might be something simple, it could also signal a more serious issue that requires immediate attention. Car Pulling to One Side If your car pulls to one side when braking, it could be a sign of a stuck caliper. This kind of pulling can make it harder to control your vehicle and is especially dangerous in wet or high-speed conditions. A technician can confirm the root cause and restore balanced braking. Brake Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need auto repair in Tempe, AZ and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, it’s our mission to consistently exceed our customers’ expectations by providing expert repairs and maintenance at fair prices. Whether you need light maintenance or in-depth repairs, our local mechanics will work meticulously to complete the job to the highest standards. And we appreciate it when our customers offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “Service and communication is awesome-really honest mechanics, Chad is our guy.” — Susan A. “Very professional and great communication with their customers. Would highly recommend.” — Tim G. “Everyone there are extremely friendly and the work they have done on my vehicle has been wonderful. Highly recommend American Five Star Auto Repair.” — Ruth R. “Great experience, best auto shop I've been to in AZ no doubt. Got the job done on time and at a great rate. Will only use this shop for my auto needs. Thank you.” — Clay D. “Took my car right away without an appointment. Took care of the issue in less than 24 hours AND listed out some other things that will need to be addressed without making me feel pressured! These guys are one of a kind and I HIGHLY recommend them!” — Brian V. “American Five Star is the very best vehicle repair shop in the metro area! If you're nervous about car repair and worry about being taken for a ride, make a beeline for American Five Star; they are honest and their work is outstanding... and their customer service is amazing.” — Wendy H. “I love how well they take care of my car, I’ve gotten a lot of work done on my 2015 Honda Civic (salvaged) like a broken valve, new engine mounts, etc., and 5 stars is definitely the rating I’d give them. Thank you!” — Noah L. “Always spot on, they go the extra mile to make the job right. Honest repair shop.” — Melody M. Auto Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need auto repair in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for car care in the greater Tempe area!