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TRANSMISSION · 4X4 · DRIVELINE · COLORADO SPRINGS
TRANSMISSION & DRIVELINE REPAIR IN COLORADO SPRINGS
Transmissions, transfer cases, differentials, drive shafts and U-joints on cars, trucks, diesel pickups and fleet vehicles. We scan, road-test and check the fluid first, then explain your options before any work begins.
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✓ 24-month / 24,000-mile warranty
✓ ASE-certified technicians
✓ Female-led, family-owned
What we do
TRANSMISSION AND DRIVELINE REPAIR
Towing, mountain grades and 4x4 use put extra load on every part between the engine and the wheels.
01
Transmission
Many transmission problems start with fluid that is low, burnt or overdue for service.
✓ Fluid service with the correct fluid for your unit
✓ Shift and shudder diagnosis on a road test
✓ Computer scans and software updates where available
✓ Rebuild or replace only when damage is confirmed
02
4x4 and AWD
The transfer case sends power front and rear. Colorado winters put it to work.
✓ Transfer case fluid service
✓ 4x4 engagement problems and warning lights
✓ Leaks and noises including chain wear
✓ Rebuild or replacement when needed
03
Driveline
Differentials, drive shafts and U-joints carry the load, especially when you tow.
✓ Differential service and gear or bearing repair
✓ Whine, howl or clunk diagnosis
✓ U-joints and carrier bearings
✓ Axle seals and axle bearings
CARS, SUVS & LIGHT TRUCKS
KNOWN TRANSMISSION AND DRIVELINE PROBLEMS WE SEE ON EVERYDAY VEHICLES
Most transmission trouble on cars, SUVs and half-ton trucks follows patterns. Some are covered by a recall, a factory bulletin or an extended warranty. We check for those first, before we quote a single repair.
NISSAN CVT
Why does my Nissan CVT shudder, whine or lose power?
Nissan's continuously variable transmissions are known for shudder, hesitation and a droning whine, and they can overheat and drop into a reduced-power mode. Nissan extended the CVT warranty on several models after a class-action lawsuit, so check coverage before paying for anything.
GOOD TO KNOW
Nissan extended CVT coverage from 60 months/60,000 miles to 84 months/84,000 miles on 2017-2018 Altima and 2018-2019 Sentra, Versa and Versa Note.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Shudder or jerk: felt from a stop or at light throttle.
Whine or drone: that rises with speed.
Sudden power loss: the car feels like it hit a wall, often after a long climb or hot day.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We scan the transmission computer for stored codes and fluid temperature history, check the fluid, and road test. If the car is inside an extended-warranty window, we tell you and help document the failure. If not, we repair or replace with a remanufactured unit and reprogram the computer.
Colorado Springs: long climbs on I-25 over Monument Hill and up US-24 put real heat into a CVT. Fluid service matters more here than on flat ground.
FORD 6R80 & 10R80
Why does my Ford F-150 shift hard, clunk, or suddenly downshift?
Ford's 6-speed (6R80) and 10-speed (10R80) automatics are behind the most common F-150, Expedition, Mustang and Ranger shift complaints. Some of it is covered by safety recalls, some is software, and some is wear.
GOOD TO KNOW
Ford has recalled 2011-2013 and 2015-2017 F-150s for the 6R80 unexpectedly downshifting into first gear. A class action over 2017-and-later 10R80 trucks alleges harsh, erratic shifting, and a separate recall covers certain remanufactured 10R80s that may not hold Park.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Harsh or late shifts: especially 1-2, 2-3 or when coasting down.
A clunk into gear: or the truck hunting between gears.
Sudden downshift: the rear end squats or skids at speed. That one is a safety recall issue.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We run your VIN for open recalls and bulletins, pull codes and shift data, check fluid level and condition, and load the latest Ford software with our in-house factory programming tools. Adaptive shift learning gets reset and relearned. Only then do we talk about hard parts.
Also check: trucks that tow in the mountains build heat fast. Ask about fluid service if yours has never had one.
FORD POWERSHIFT DPS6
Is my Focus or Fiesta dual-clutch still under warranty?
Maybe. Ford extended coverage on the PowerShift (DPS6) dual-clutch transmission after years of shudder and slipping complaints on the Focus and Fiesta.
GOOD TO KNOW
For 2014-2016 Focus (built before Nov. 5, 2015) and 2014-2015 Fiesta (built before Oct. 15, 2014), Ford extended clutch coverage to 7 years/100,000 miles and transmission control module coverage to 10 years/150,000 miles.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Shudder from a stop: like driving a manual with a worn clutch.
Rollback or delay: on hills before it engages.
Transmission warning light: or no-start in gear.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We confirm whether your build date and mileage fall inside Ford's coverage. If they do, we point you to it. If not, we diagnose the clutch, the control module and the software, and repair or replace as needed.
GM 8L90 & 8L45
Why does my Silverado, Sierra or Cadillac shudder at highway speed?
GM's 8-speed automatics (8L90 and 8L45) are known for a torque converter shudder that feels like driving over rumble strips. GM traced it to moisture in the original fluid and issued a bulletin calling for a full fluid exchange.
GOOD TO KNOW
GM's bulletin covers 8L45/8L90 units in 2015-2019 Silverado 1500, Sierra 1500, Yukon, Escalade, Colorado, Canyon, Camaro, Corvette, CTS, ATS and CT6, and calls for replacing the fluid with GM's updated specification.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Rumble-strip feel: between about 25 and 80 mph under light throttle.
Harsh 1-2 or 2-3 shifts: and clunks when slowing down.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We check whether the bulletin fluid exchange has been done, perform it to GM's procedure if not, update the software and relearn shifts. If the converter is already damaged, we repair or replace it.
GM 6T40 & 6T45
Why did my Equinox, Malibu or Cruze lose reverse or start shifting hard?
GM's small 6-speed automatics (6T40/6T45) have a well-documented weak spot in the 3-5-reverse clutch. When its wave plate breaks, you typically lose reverse, third or fifth gear, or get hard shifts and a check-engine light.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
No reverse: or a long delay before it engages.
Harsh or flared shifts: especially cold.
Code P0776: or other pressure-control codes.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We confirm the failure with codes, data and a road test, then repair with the updated parts or replace with a remanufactured unit. We update the software and run the clutch relearn afterward.
CHRYSLER / JEEP 9-SPEED
Why does my Jeep Cherokee or Chrysler 200 shift strangely or drop into neutral?
The 9-speed automatic (948TE) in 2014-and-later Cherokee, Renegade, Chrysler 200 and ProMaster City drew years of complaints about rough and erratic shifting. One problem, unexpectedly shifting to neutral, was a safety recall.
GOOD TO KNOW
A recall covered 2014-2015 Cherokee and 2015 Chrysler 200, Renegade and ProMaster (about 500,000 vehicles) for unintended shifts to neutral. The remedy was a software update.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Jerky low-speed shifts: or a lurch pulling away.
Sudden neutral: while driving, a recall issue.
Hesitation: when you need power to merge.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We check for open recalls and software updates first. Many of these improve with the latest calibration and a relearn. If there is mechanical damage, we repair or replace with a remanufactured unit.
HONDA & ACURA V6
Why does my older Honda or Acura V6 slip or flare between gears?
The 5-speed automatic behind Honda and Acura V6 engines in the early 2000s is known for failing third-gear clutches, which shows up as slipping, flares and a flashing D light. It was the subject of a class-action settlement.
GOOD TO KNOW
The settlement covered 2003-2004 Accord, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2004 Pilot, 2001-2002 MDX and 2003 TL/CL Type S.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Flare between gears: engine revs jump before it catches.
Flashing D light: the transmission computer found a fault.
Delayed engagement: into Drive or Reverse.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
These vehicles are well past their settlement windows. We check fluid, pressures and codes, then repair or replace with a remanufactured unit. Correct Honda-spec fluid matters on these.
SUBARU CVT
Is my Subaru CVT covered by an extended warranty?
Many are. Subaru doubled CVT coverage on roughly 1.5 million vehicles after complaints of shuddering and stalling.
GOOD TO KNOW
Subaru extended CVT coverage from 5 years/60,000 miles to 10 years/100,000 miles on 2010-2015 Legacy, Outback, Impreza, Crosstrek, Forester and WRX with a CVT. Check your VIN for later model years.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Shudder or judder: at low speed or light throttle.
Stalling: when coming to a stop.
Whine: or a flashing AWD or check-engine light.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We confirm coverage by VIN and point you to it if it applies. Out of coverage, we diagnose the torque converter, valve body and control module and repair or replace with a remanufactured unit.
Also check: most Subarus here are AWD. Mismatched tire sizes or tread depth stress the drivetrain. Keep all four tires matched.
HYUNDAI & KIA DCT
Why does my Hyundai or Kia hesitate when I pull away?
The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) on many turbocharged Hyundai and Kia models is known for hesitation and shudder from a stop. On the 2016 Tucson it was a safety recall.
GOOD TO KNOW
A recall covered 2016 Tucson 1.6T models where clutch logic could delay acceleration from a stop; the fix was a software update.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Delay from a stop: you press the gas and nothing happens for a beat.
Shudder in slow traffic: or a burning smell after creeping.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We check open recalls and software, test clutch engagement with live data, and run the clutch learn procedure. Worn clutches or a failed actuator get repaired or replaced.
4X4 & TRANSFER CASES
Why won't my 4x4 engage, or why does my Ford grind in 2WD?
Most 4x4 engagement problems are electrical or vacuum, not the transfer case gears. On GM trucks and SUVs, a failed transfer case encoder motor is commonly reported behind the Service 4WD message. On Ford F-150s, grinding in 2WD is often the front hubs.
GOOD TO KNOW
A Ford bulletin covers 2013-2018 F-150, Expedition and Navigator 4x4s with an intermittent grinding noise in 2WD, caused by lost vacuum to the front hubs or worn hubs.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Service 4WD message: or the selector lights flash and nothing happens.
Grinding from the front: in 2WD, often on acceleration.
Binding or hopping: in tight turns with 4WD on.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We test the switch, encoder motor, module and wiring, check the vacuum lines and check valve, and inspect transfer case fluid. We fix what is actually failed, not the whole case.
Colorado Springs: most 4x4s here only engage a few times a winter. Shift into 4WD once a month to keep the system working.
DRIVESHAFTS & DIFFERENTIALS
What causes a clunk or vibration from under my truck?
A clunk when you shift into gear or a vibration that builds with speed usually points to worn U-joints, a failing center carrier bearing, or slop in the differential.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Clunk into Drive or Reverse: or when you get on and off the gas.
Vibration at speed: felt through the floor or seat.
Whine or howl: that changes on and off throttle, usually a differential.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We lift the truck and check every joint, the carrier bearing, yokes and axle backlash, and we check differential fluid for metal. You get a clear answer on what is worn and what can wait.
DIESEL & HEAVY TRUCKS
TRANSMISSION WORK ON DIESEL PICKUPS THAT TOW
Diesel trucks put more torque through the transmission than anything else in the lot, and most of them tow. Heat and torque converter wear cause most of what we see.
ALLISON 1000 · DURAMAX
How long does an Allison 1000 last, and what kills it?
The Allison 1000 behind the Duramax is one of the toughest pickup transmissions built, and most problems trace to heat, old fluid or modified power. Fluid on the right schedule is the best thing you can do for it.
GOOD TO KNOW
Allison publishes separate general-duty and severe-duty fluid and filter schedules for its approved fluids, and recommends fluid analysis as the best way to set intervals.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Slipping or flaring: usually under load or after heavy towing.
Harsh shifts: after engine tuning or a battery disconnect.
Transmission temperature warnings: on long pulls.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We check fluid condition, codes and shift adapts, and verify the truck's software. If the fluid is burned, we find out why before we change it. We repair or replace with a remanufactured unit when needed.
FORD 6R140 & 10R140 · POWER STROKE
What goes wrong with Super Duty TorqShift transmissions?
Ford's 6-speed (6R140) and 10-speed (10R140) TorqShift automatics are strong, but shift flares, harsh shifts and delayed engagement are commonly reported. Many cases improve with software updates and a proper relearn before any hard parts are needed.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Flare on the 2-3 shift: the engine revs up before the gear catches.
Delayed engagement: into Drive or Reverse when cold.
Clunky downshifts: while slowing down with a load.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We check for Ford bulletins and software, read shift data live during a loaded road test, and verify fluid level with the procedure Ford requires. Programming is done in-house.
RAM 68RFE & AISIN · CUMMINS
Is my Ram's 68RFE or Aisin transmission failing?
The 68RFE behind the 6.7L Cummins is commonly reported to struggle with heat and torque converter wear when towing heavy, especially on modified trucks. The Aisin in heavy-duty Rams has its own reported issues, including overheating on steep grades and rough shifts.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Converter shudder: felt as a vibration at steady cruise.
Overheating or limp mode: on long climbs pulling a trailer.
Slipping after power upgrades: a tuned truck can outrun the stock transmission.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We check codes, converter slip and temperature data, fluid, and cooler flow. We tell you plainly whether the transmission can handle what you are asking it to tow, then repair or replace with a remanufactured unit.
TOWING HEAT
Why does heat kill transmissions on tow rigs?
Heat breaks down transmission fluid, and burned fluid wears clutches and the torque converter. On a diesel pulling a heavy trailer up a long grade, transmission temperatures climb fast.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Temperature gauge climbing: on grades or in slow traffic with a trailer.
Burnt smell: or dark fluid.
Shudder at cruise: a common first sign of converter wear.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We check the cooler, lines and thermostat for blockage or leaks, test converter lockup with live data, and recommend fluid service based on how you really use the truck.
Colorado Springs: Ute Pass, Monument Hill and the passes west of town are long, steep pulls. Watch your transmission temperature and use tow/haul mode.
MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS
When does a diesel clutch or flywheel need replacing?
A clutch on a diesel manual usually needs attention when it slips under load, chatters when you pull away, or the pedal feels different. Many diesel manuals use a dual-mass flywheel that wears along with the clutch.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Slipping under load: revs rise but speed doesn't.
Chatter or shudder: when pulling away with a trailer.
Rattle at idle: that goes away with the clutch pedal pushed in.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We road test, check the hydraulics, and inspect the flywheel when the clutch comes out, so you do not pay for the same labor twice.
RV CHASSIS
TRANSMISSION SERVICE FOR MOTORHOMES
A motorhome transmission moves a lot of weight up long grades and then sits for months. We work on Ford F-53 and E-Series gas chassis, Workhorse chassis, and diesel pushers with Allison transmissions.
ALLISON · DIESEL PUSHERS
How often should the Allison in my diesel pusher be serviced?
It depends on the fluid in it and how you use the coach, and Allison recommends fluid analysis as the best way to decide. Many coaches sit for months, so time matters as much as miles.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Service or check-transmission light: on the shift pad.
Harsh shifts: after sitting for a long time.
Leaks: around the cooler lines and pan.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We confirm the fluid type, check codes and fluid life reported by the transmission computer, and change fluid and filters to Allison's schedule.
FORD F-53 & E-SERIES
What goes wrong with transmissions on Ford gas motorhomes?
On V10 chassis, the TorqShift automatics are commonly reported to overheat and wear the torque converter on long grades with a heavy coach. The 2020-and-later F-53 uses the 7.3L V8 with a 10-speed TorqShift.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE, AND WHY
Converter shudder: at steady speed on the highway.
Overheating on grades: especially with a car in tow.
Harsh or slipping shifts: after a long climb.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We check codes, converter lockup data, cooler condition and fluid, and update software where Ford has released it. We repair or replace with a remanufactured unit when needed.
Colorado Springs: coming down from the mountains, use grade braking or a lower gear so the brakes and transmission both stay cool.
WORKHORSE · ALLISON 1000
Does my Workhorse chassis need special transmission care?
Workhorse gas chassis commonly use the Allison 1000, and the same rules apply as on a Duramax: correct fluid, on schedule, and keep it cool. Fluid that has sat for years in a stored coach is worth checking before a long trip.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We check fluid condition, codes and cooler flow, and service to Allison's schedule for your fluid type.
FLEETS
KEEPING FLEET TRANSMISSIONS ON THE ROAD
Fleet vehicles idle, stop and start, carry weight and rack up hours that don't show on the odometer. That is severe service by almost every manufacturer's definition, and it shortens fluid life.
SEVERE-SERVICE INTERVALS
How often should fleet transmissions get fluid service?
Usually far sooner than the normal schedule. Most manufacturers publish a separate severe-service schedule for towing, heavy loads, extended idling and stop-and-go use, and most fleet vehicles fall under it.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We set fluid service by how each unit is actually used, track it on your vehicle records, and flag units running hot or showing early wear before they strand a driver.
FORD TRANSIT
What should Transit fleets watch in the transmission?
Transits use Ford's 6R80 and, on later vans, the 10R80, and they share the same shift complaints as F-150s: harsh shifts, clunks and gear hunting. Software updates and relearns fix many of them.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We run every VIN for recalls and bulletins, program Ford software in-house, and check fluid on the severe schedule.
ISUZU NPR · AISIN
What fluid does an Isuzu NPR automatic take?
It depends on the transmission, and the wrong one causes damage. Isuzu's bulletin says the 6-speed Aisin takes Isuzu's own fluid, and that fluid is not compatible with Dexron.
GOOD TO KNOW
Isuzu's service reminder for 2017 and earlier N-Series trucks lists different fluids and intervals for the 4-speed and 6-speed automatics, and warns that mixing the two causes transmission damage.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We identify the transmission, use the correct fluid, and set the level to Isuzu's procedure.
SPRINTER · 7-SPEED
Why does my Sprinter go into limp mode?
On Sprinters with the Mercedes 7-speed automatic, a failed speed sensor on the internal conductor plate is commonly reported to cause limp mode, harsh shifts and stuck gears. Low or wrong fluid can cause similar symptoms.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We read Mercedes-specific codes, check fluid level to the factory procedure, and program and adapt the transmission after repair.
COOLERS & IDLE HEAT
Do fleet vehicles need an auxiliary transmission cooler?
Often, yes. Idling, stop-and-go routes and heavy loads keep transmission temperatures high, and a larger or added cooler is one of the simplest ways to protect the transmission.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We check the existing cooler and lines for blockage and leaks, and recommend an added cooler when a unit's workload calls for it.
HOW WE WORK
HOW WE DIAGNOSE, AND WHEN TO SERVICE FLUID
Transmission repairs are big decisions. You should know exactly what failed and why before you agree to anything.
DIAGNOSIS
How do you figure out what is wrong with my transmission?
We test before we recommend anything. Many problems turn out to be software, a sensor, wiring or fluid, not a full transmission.
WHAT WE CHECK
Scan and live data: codes, shift timing, clutch slip, converter lockup and fluid temperature with factory-level tools.
Fluid check: level, color, smell and debris.
Pressure test: when the data points to a hydraulic problem.
Road test: to feel what you feel and record it.
Software and relearns: we check for updated calibrations and program them in-house, then relearn shifts.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
You get a clear explanation of what failed and your options: a targeted repair, or replacement with a remanufactured unit. Repairs are backed by our 24-month/24,000-mile warranty.
FLUID SERVICE
When should I change my transmission fluid, and is it really lifetime fluid?
If you tow, haul, drive in the mountains or sit in stop-and-go traffic, change it on the severe-service schedule in your owner's guide. Many newer vehicles list no normal fluid change, but that doesn't mean the fluid never wears out.
WHAT TO KNOW
Heat is the enemy: towing and long grades break fluid down much faster.
Colorado counts as severe: steep grades and trailers put most local trucks on the severe schedule.
Correct fluid only: modern transmissions are built around a specific fluid, and the wrong one can cause shift problems.
Very old fluid: on a high-mileage unit we check condition first and explain the options before changing it.
WHAT WESTCO DOES
We use the fluid the manufacturer calls for and set the level to the factory procedure.
COMMON JOBS
DRIVELINE WORK WE DO EVERY WEEK
The path from the engine to the wheels, and what usually goes wrong along it.
TRANSMISSION
Slipping, shudder, harsh shifts
• Fluid condition checked first
• Scan for transmission codes
• Road test under load
• Leak repair
TRANSFER CASE
4x4 and all-wheel drive
• Fluid service
• Engagement faults
• Chain wear and noise
• Leaks at seals
DIFFERENTIALS
Front and rear
• Fluid service
• Whine or howl diagnosis
• Pinion and axle seal leaks
• Bearing and gear repair
DRIVE SHAFTS
U-joints and carrier bearings
• Vibration at speed
• Clunk into gear
• Squeak that changes with speed
• Axle shaft and bearing repair
FREE INSPECTION
BOOK A FREE TRANSMISSION AND DRIVELINE INSPECTION
Slipping, shuddering, or a new clunk or vibration? We check the fluid, scan for codes and road-test it before recommending anything. Prefer the phone? Call (719) 591-7743.
TRANSMISSION QUESTIONS WE ANSWER EVERY WEEK
Straight answers from our techs
WHY IS MY TRANSMISSION SLIPPING?
Slipping can come from low or burnt fluid, a software issue, or internal wear. Fluid is the first thing to check because it is the cheapest thing to fix.
Warning signs
Engine revs without speed · Late or harsh shifts · Warning light · Burnt smell
What we do
We check the fluid level and condition, scan for codes and road-test before recommending any repair.
Colorado Springs: Towing up I-25 or Ute Pass is hard on transmissions. A new shudder or slip after a trip is worth a check.
WHY DOES MY TRUCK SHUDDER AT A STEADY SPEED?
A shudder at steady speed often comes from the torque converter clutch. On some transmissions a fluid service with the correct fluid helps, on others parts are worn.
Warning signs
Rumble-strip feel · Shudder at 30–50 mph · Harsh shifts · Transmission codes
What we do
We road-test it, scan the transmission and check the fluid, then tell you what will actually fix it.
Colorado Springs: Towing a trailer up I-25? A transmission that shudders under load needs a look before the next trip.
DO I NEED A TRANSMISSION FLUID SERVICE?
Most transmissions need fluid service at some interval, and towing or mountain driving shortens it. The right fluid matters as much as the change itself.
When to do it
Dark or burnt fluid · High miles · Towing · Shift changes
What we do
We use the fluid your transmission is built for and check for leaks while it is on the lift.
WHAT IS THAT CLUNK WHEN I SHIFT INTO GEAR?
A clunk into drive or reverse often points to a worn U-joint, loose driveline parts or worn mounts. It is worth checking before a joint lets go.
Warning signs
Clunk into gear · Squeak at low speed · Vibration · Drips at the axle
What we do
We check every joint, mount and seal on a lift and show you which parts are worn.
WHY WON’T MY 4X4 ENGAGE?
It can be the switch, an actuator, wiring, the transfer case motor or the transfer case itself. Scan data narrows it down fast.
Warning signs
4x4 light flashing · Grinding when engaging · No front drive · Service 4WD message
What we do
We scan the system, test the electrical side and inspect the transfer case, then repair the part that failed.
Colorado Springs: Snow season is when 4x4 problems show up. Test it before the first storm.