Automatic Transmission

Overview

Modern automatic transmissions are some of the most complex assemblies in your vehicle, and they live or die on the condition of the fluid inside them. Most manufacturers now recommend a transmission fluid service somewhere between 40,000 and 80,000 km — but we still see plenty of cars that have never had one, and those are the autos that fail at 150,000 km.

We service torque-converter autos, CVTs and dual-clutch (DCT/DSG) gearboxes — each one wants the exact correct fluid type and a specific service procedure. Using the wrong fluid can wreck a CVT inside a few hundred kilometres, so this is one job where corner-cutting is not on.

What we cover

• Transmission fluid and filter service to factory spec
• CVT belt and chain fluid service with the correct fluid
• DSG / DCT fluid and mechatronic service
• Diagnostic scan for transmission fault codes
• Solenoid and valve body testing
• Slipping, harsh-shift and limp-mode diagnosis
• External fluid leak repair (pan gasket, output seals, cooler lines)

Time to get the auto checked if…

• Shifts feel harsh, late, or come with a thump
• Slipping — revs climb without the car accelerating
• Transmission warning light on the dash
• Burnt or dark fluid (it should be clear red or amber)
• Whining noise that changes pitch with road speed
• Vehicle goes into "limp mode" — stuck in one gear

Our approach

We start with a diagnostic scan and a road test to verify the symptoms. From there we either service the transmission (if that's all it needs) or quote a deeper repair — usually with options at different price points so you can decide what makes sense.

Why us, here in Kapiti

We don't "flush" CVTs aggressively the way some workshops do — that's a fast way to wreck them. We use the manufacturer-approved drain-and-fill procedure with the correct fluid, every time.