What Is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in New Jersey?

Statute of Limitations

Car accidents are fairly common occurrences in New Jersey. When your vehicle is struck by another motorist, you might be left with property damage and injuries. If you are involved in a car accident because of the actions of someone else, you will need to know when you should file your claim. New Jersey has a few different statutes of limitation that you need to know when you want to file a claim after a car accident. The professionals at Elmer’s Auto Body are experienced with handling car accident claims and can work with your insurance company to make sure that you get back on the road as quickly as possible.

What is a statute of limitations?

Every state, including New Jersey, has laws that limit the ability to file lawsuits and claims. These are time limitations for when claims must be filed. A statute of limitations is a law that places a time limit on your ability to file a civil lawsuit against the responsible party in court. The period for filing a lawsuit is set by a certain number of years beginning on the date of your accident. The deadline that you will have will depend on the type of lawsuit that you wish to file.

What happens if the deadline of the statute of limitations passes?

The key thing that you must keep in mind about the statute of limitations is that the deadline is strict. If you wait until the deadline passes before trying to file a lawsuit, the defendant will likely file a motion to dismiss your claim as time-barred. The court will then grant the motion, which will end your lawsuit. This means that if you wait to file your claim until after the statute of limitations deadline has passed, you will be prevented from recovering compensation for your losses. While there are a few limited exceptions to the statute of limitations, it is best to file your claim well within the limitations period so that you can protect your right to recover damages.

For car accident claims, the particular statute of limitations that will apply will depend on the type of claim you are filing. The type of claim will depend on which civil law under which your lawsuit will be filed. It is a good idea for you to talk to a lawyer to learn about which type of claim is best suited to your case.

The statutes of limitations in New Jersey for car accidents

There are several different statutes of limitations that might apply to car accidents in New Jersey. If you suffered injuries in your car accident, you will have two years from the date that you were injured to file your claim. For property damage that you suffered as a result of a car accident, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit to recover compensation is six years.

If your car accident claim resulted from product defects, including an improper design or manufacturing process that resulted in a defective component that led to the accident, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of your accident. If your accident resulted in the wrongful death of your loved one, you will have two years to file a lawsuit against the responsible party.

When a manufacturer, driver, or another responsible party causes a car accident, you can file a lawsuit to recover compensation for your losses. However, if you allow the statute of limitations to expire, you will not be able to file a lawsuit. This makes it important to act quickly after your car accident if you want to file a lawsuit against the responsible party. Finally, if your lawsuit will include several types of claims such as property damage and personal injury, you should file your lawsuit within the shortest statute of limitations period.

Get help from Elmer’s Auto Body

Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. You might be trying to recover from your injuries while also trying to handle your car repairs. The professionals at Elmer’s Auto Body can help you with your vehicle repairs so that you can get back on the road as soon as possible. We work with many different insurance companies to help people to get their cars repaired back to the condition that they were in before their accidents. Call us today to schedule an appointment by filling out our online scheduling form or calling us at one of our three locations.

How Long Does an Insurance Claim Take?

How Long Does an Insurance Claim Take?

For a start, we should go ahead and tell you something. There is no way that we can give you an accurate assessment of how long your insurance claim will take. There are so many potential factors that could complicate things, and there is no way to cover them all. That being said, we can definitely give you a better idea of where you stand, and how much longer you are likely to be waiting.

What Is The Ideal Time Frame?

Under ideal circumstances, most insurance companies will try to settle all claims within 30 days of their filing. If you are lucky, you might be one of those who get everything settled and paid within a month. Unfortunately, this 30-day goal is more of a guideline than an actual rule. There are many things that can delay your settlement.

Delaying Factors

The first factor is the desire of your insurance company to avoid paying. In most cases, insurance companies will try every trick in the book to avoid paying out on claims. To them, it is simply a matter of preserving the financial bottom line. They know that paying a lot of expensive claims will affect that bottom line, so they have all kinds of tricks that they might use. One of these tactics is to simply delay the matter until you give up and accept whatever is offered.

While all insurance companies will try to avoid paying, there is a point at which you have to say “enough.” When you determine that your insurance company is acting in bad faith, you need to find a better one. Sometimes, you just have to cut your losses and move on as best you can.

Your claim can also be delayed if the other driver decides to dispute the matter. In many cases, their insurance company might pressure them to dispute the case, simply because they don’t want to pay. If the claim is disputed, a more in-depth investigation will have to be done, and that invariably takes more time. Sometimes, these kinds of disputes can be tied up for years in a seemingly endless back-and-forth process.

Time Limits By State

You might be happy to find that the law does place some limits on the length of time that insurance companies can take to process claims. Unfortunately for the average insurance buyer, these time limits are pretty generous. Still, it is good to know that the law places some limits on this process, even if they might not be adequate. The time limits work in much the same way as a “statute of limitations” and are legally considered as such.

Here is a complete list of these time limits by state:

  • Alabama: 2 years
  • Alaska: 2 years
  • Arizona: 2 years
  • Arkansas: 3 years
  • California: 2 years
  • Colorado: 2 years
  • Connecticut: 2 years
  • Delaware: 2 years
  • Florida: 4 years
  • Georgia: 2 years
  • Hawaii: 2 years
  • Idaho: 2 years
  • Illinois: 2 years
  • Indiana: 2 years
  • Iowa: 2 years
  • Kansas: 2 years
  • Kentucky: 1 year
  • Louisiana: 1 year
  • Maine: 6 years
  • Maryland: 3 years
  • Massachusetts: 3 years
  • Michigan: 3 years
  • Minnesota: 2 years
  • Mississippi: 3 years
  • Missouri: 5 years
  • Montana: 3 years
  • Nebraska: 4 years
  • Nevada: 2 years
  • New Hampshire: 3 years
  • New Jersey: 2 years
  • New Mexico: 3 years
  • New York: 3 years
  • North Carolina: 3 years
  • North Dakota: 2-6 years
  • Ohio: 2 years
  • Oklahoma: 2 years
  • Oregon: 2 years
  • Pennsylvania: 2 years
  • Rhode Island: 3 years
  • South Carolina: 3 years
  • South Dakota: 3 years
  • Tennessee: 1 year
  • Texas: 2 years
  • Utah: 4 years
  • Vermont: 3 years
  • Virginia: 2 years
  • Washington: 3 years
  • Washington DC: 3 years
  • West Virginia: 2 years
  • Wisconsin: 3 years
  • Wyoming: 4 years

Disputing A Claim

If a claim is not resolved in a way that benefits you, it might be possible to dispute the claim. There is a process that must be followed, and you should take care to follow every rule. Otherwise, your claim might be disqualified immediately.

Before filing a dispute, you should definitely get your policy out and read it carefully. This policy represents a legal contract, and the insurance company will try to use it against you in the dispute process. By understanding the terms of your policy as thoroughly as possible, you ensure that they can’t bluff you into dropping your dispute.

Although your contract with the insurance company is legally binding, it is still subject to state and federal laws, just like any other contract. Thus, if any provision of the contract is found to be in violation of state or federal law, it is null and void. This fact might help you out if you need some leverage in the negotiating process.

Conclusion

As we said from the start, there is no way to know how long your insurance company will take. However, if you are in need of emergency help, it wouldn’t hurt to ask. Some companies will provide immediate financial help (to be paid back at a later date). Either way, you might as well try to be patient about this whole process. We hope that our article has given you a better idea of how this works and that this knowledge will help you to deal more efficiently with your insurance provider. If so, we hope that you will fill out the contact form below.

Can The Airbag Of A Car Be Fixed After An Accident?

Can The Airbag Of A Car Be Fixed After An Accident?

According to the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), you should replace airbags that have been inflated or deployed following a collision without delay. They also recommend that you should only use authorized service centers for installation and not to drive the vehicle until a new airbag is installed.

Airbag Use

Airbags are often unable to be repaired or fixed once an accident has occurred. They are designed for one-time use. Airbags from older model vehicles can be repaired in certain instances. With newer vehicles, full replacement is usually the only option. Mechanics must replace airbags every time inflation has occurred, whether the deployment of the airbag occurred through the steering wheel, the passenger area, side panels, or seat areas.

Repairs

When an air bag’s sensors are triggered, or the bag inflates, repairs will be needed, and driving will be at a standstill until they are completed. Protection is imperative; you or any passengers could be in danger as the triggering sensors will be impaired, and there will be no airbag inflation. There are repair steps to be followed to fix the airbags of a car. The following steps are typically what happens restoring airbag use.

Indicators

Even when an airbag did not inflate, its sensors may have been triggered, which indicates that a reset of the sensors may be necessary. A warning light in most cars will come on to indicate that there is a problem with an airbag or airbags. If you see that light, you’ll probably need to have the airbag light reset. Again, airbags will not inflate properly if an accident has occurred.

Resets

Once airbags have been inflated or deployed, resets may be possible with certain vehicle types and models. That possibility will depend on whether the bag suffered any damage during the accident. The reset process involves packing or stuffing the airbag into its compartment and resetting the light. If you have a newer vehicle, the airbags will not be able to reset. It’s best to contact a vehicle repair shop to find out whether or not you can reset your airbags.

Replacement

If airbags have become over-inflated and have been released, or your vehicle is one where an airbag can’t be rest, any airbags involved in an accident will need replacement. In either case, a full replacement of an airbag module will be necessary. In addition, a deployed steering wheel airbag may have caused enough damage to warrant the replacement of the steering wheel itself and its column. Once new airbags are installed, and in position, the sensor can be reset. This action confirms that the airbags are functioning as they should.

Authorized Technician

When you make arrangements to have your airbag or airbags replaced, you want to make sure you are utilizing an authorized repair center. Since your airbags are in place to prevent injuries and deaths in collisions, you’ll want to be assured of a proper airbag installation by a qualified technician. If you decide to use an unauthorized service center, you could wind up with either a faulty, reprocessed, or used airbag, or even a defective and recycled one from an auto salvage yard or a questionable used car lot. When you go the unauthorized route, you are asking for trouble, as well as placing yourself and others in jeopardy if another crash occurs.

Costs

The costs of airbag replacement will hinge on several factors, including the make, model, and year of the vehicle, the number of airbags that inflated, and their location in the vehicle. Other costs will include any parts necessary to replace the entire airbag module. The average price of a replacement can run anywhere from three to five thousand dollars. Costs could be higher if your insurer has determined your vehicle to be a total loss because of any deployed airbags.

Insurance Coverage

When you have an accident, and your airbags inflate, you will be required to repair the airbags before you can drive your vehicle. Your car insurance should cover the replacement of the airbags and any extended damage issues, but reimbursement will depend on the extent of the damage. When an airbag deploys or inflates, quite a bit of damage can occur. Any covering or casing of the airbag itself will need to be replaced, as will the sensor. Side and front window damage can also happen, as well as damage to other interior structures that can include the steering wheel, column area, dashboard, consoles, panels, seats, and other components in the vicinity of any airbags.

In certain accident situations, quite a bit of crushing damage can occur, which means that the damage could be widespread, and critical components affected. Not only would the whole interior front section of a vehicle be involved, but other exterior parts in the front portion of a vehicle could also be affected. Fenders, bumpers, hoods, grilles, radiators, air conditioning condensers, and other components could be in jeopardy and require replacement, not to mention any extensive bodywork. Repairs could get expensive, and a vehicle even determined to be a total loss. In this case, insurance coverage and any reimbursement would depend on the actual cash value of the vehicle before an accident and the costs of repairs. Whatever the case, insurance should cover airbag replacement.

Airbags in a car can usually be fixed after an accident, which includes both resetting and replacing any that have been subject to damage because of a collision. Depending on the make and model of a vehicle, a full replacement may be necessary. To determine where you stand with airbag repair or replacement, complete the online contact form, and an authorized service center expert will get back to you with the information you need to reset, repair, or replace your airbags in the right way.

What Is The Difference Between A Ding And A Dent?

What Is The Difference Between A Ding And A Dent?

There is nothing quite as exasperating as a newfound ding or a dent on a vehicle, especially if you discover it on your newer car or truck that you have babied along and kept in pristine shape since you bought it.

Parking Perils

Maybe your vehicle has never been exposed to the perils of a parking lot, driveway, parking garage or anywhere else where close contact with another vehicle is bound to happen. Unfortunately, that day will likely come along when you discover that your vehicle is vulnerable to just about any kind of ding or dent. Walking out to your vehicle and witnessing its first ding or dent is a hard thing to accept. Lo and behold you discover a ding or dent you thought would never happen. You try to recover from the shock of how the whole thing could have happened, but you pull yourself together and admit that the problem is up to you to resolve. Just how are you going to return your prized possession to its old, new self?

Difference Between a Ding and a Dent

Car body damage can go from small scratches to a state of total disrepair and those unsightly dings and dents are somewhere in between, but they still are unappealing and can be damaging to a vehicle. So what is a ding as opposed to a dent?

Ding

A ding is usually about a half inch in diameter. A ding won’t damage a vehicle’s paint or leave a bare area where rust can form. Dings usually occur in parking lots and causes are due to runaway shopping carts, rocks or opened car doors. Hail showers or storms can also cause dings. Damage from hail can be extensive and repair costs costly, but there are newer paintless repair processes that can help with ding removal.

Dent

A dent is larger (over half an inch wide) than a ding and covers a more extensive area of a vehicle. Paint damage occurs with a dent as well as underlying damage that can result in rust formation on the frame. The same factors that govern a ding can also affect a dent, but a collision with another car or object is another leading cause of dents. Even a slight impact with another bumper can create a dent that is critical enough to require repair. Dents are more difficult to repair, and damage can lie beneath an indentation in the metal of a vehicle. Rust damage is enabled because of bare metal exposure that happens when a dent is exposed to moisture and the elements. With the larger area of exposure that a dent causes, damage can involve substantial metal work as well as repainting and panel replacement.

Major Differences

The major difference between a ding and a dent has to do with size and whether the paint is damaged as well as the amount of labor and expense required to repair any damage.

Repairs

Small ding repair doesn’t appear to be a top priority with vehicle owners and oftentimes dents are treated with the same lack of urgency. The absence of concern is often linked to the fact that dings and dents are cosmetic issues rather than mechanical. Though the thought of cosmetic repairs, any damage, large or small, should be attended to, particularly if a vehicle owner is leasing a car, planning on selling it or using it as a trade-in for another vehicle. A leasing company will likely charge for any wear and tear on a leased vehicle, and car dealerships may limit trade-in value on a vehicle that has dings. So, there are financial implications when there is no follow-through on dings and dents.

Financial Loss

When ignoring dings and dents is connected to major financial loss, vehicle owners should make it a point to deal with dings and dents and a repair process.

Proper Repair Process

With the possibility of major financial loss due to ignoring ding and dent damage, it’s in the best interest of any vehicle owner to look at the repair process. Currently, the best repair procedures involve what is called paintless dent repair. This involves the use of slow pressure on the ding or dent. With this process, no damage occurs to the original paint job. This procedure is less costly than other methods used to remove dents and dings.

Now that you know the difference between a ding and a dent, you might want to take into consideration what repairing either one can do to the value of your vehicle as well as any mechanical and safety factors that may come into play with a more involved ding or dent. If you are concerned about any dings or dents on your vehicle and need some quick answers as to the repair process and the costs involved, complete the online contact form and a repair specialist will get back to you with the answers you need to determine what can be done to resolve the ding or dent issues plaguing your vehicle.

What Does OEM Mean For A Repair Shop?

What Does OEM Mean for a Repair Shop?

Have you ever been told that your car needs an “OEM part” and wondered what that means? You’re not alone. Understanding OEM parts is crucial for making informed decisions about your vehicle’s repairs and maintenance. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll demystify the concept of OEM, explore its benefits, and explain why choosing OEM parts can make a significant difference in your car’s performance and longevity.

What Does OEM Mean?

OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. In the automotive world, OEM parts are made by the same manufacturer that produced the original parts for your vehicle. These components are designed to meet the exact specifications of your car, ensuring optimal compatibility and performance.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts

  • OEM Parts: Produced by your vehicle’s manufacturer or an authorized partner, guaranteeing a perfect fit and function.
  • Aftermarket Parts: Made by third-party companies, often designed to fit multiple models, which can lead to compatibility issues.

Benefits of Choosing OEM Parts

Choosing OEM parts over aftermarket alternatives offers several significant advantages:

  1. Warranty Protection

Using OEM parts helps maintain your vehicle’s warranty. According to a study by the Automotive Service Association, approximately 80% of car warranties are voided due to the use of non-OEM parts.

  • Peace of Mind: Avoid costly repairs that aren’t covered because of voided warranties.
  • Manufacturer Assurance: OEM parts are backed by the vehicle manufacturer, ensuring quality and reliability.
  1. Value Retention

OEM parts help preserve your car’s resale value.

  • Consistent Quality: Original parts keep your vehicle as close to factory condition as possible.
  • Buyer Confidence: Potential buyers are more likely to purchase a car with OEM parts, knowing it has been maintained properly.
  1. Durability and Quality

OEM parts undergo rigorous testing to meet strict industry standards.

  • Longevity: They often last longer than aftermarket parts, saving you money over time.
  • Safety: High-quality components reduce the risk of malfunctions that could lead to accidents.
  1. Compatibility Assurance

With OEM parts, you can be confident they’ll fit and function correctly.

  • Exact Match: Designed specifically for your vehicle’s make and model.
  • Efficient Repairs: Reduces the time your car spends in the shop due to fitment issues.

When to Consider Aftermarket Parts

While OEM parts are generally recommended, there are situations where aftermarket parts might be considered:

  1. Cost Savings

Aftermarket parts can be less expensive upfront.

  • Budget Constraints: If you’re on a tight budget, aftermarket parts may be more accessible.
  • Non-Critical Components: For parts that don’t affect performance or safety, aftermarket options might suffice.
  1. Customization Options

Aftermarket parts offer a wider range of customization.

  • Unique Modifications: For enthusiasts looking to personalize their vehicles.
  • Performance Enhancements: Some aftermarket parts are designed to boost performance beyond factory specs.
  1. Availability

Aftermarket parts are often readily available.

  • Immediate Repairs: If OEM parts are on backorder, aftermarket parts can reduce downtime.
  • Older Models: For discontinued vehicles, aftermarket parts might be the only option.

Comparing OEM and Aftermarket Parts

To make an informed decision, consider the following comparison:

Criteria OEM Parts Aftermarket Parts
Cost Higher upfront cost Lower initial cost
Warranty Coverage Maintains vehicle warranty May void warranty
Durability High durability due to rigorous testing Quality varies; may wear out faster
Compatibility Guaranteed perfect fit and function Potential compatibility issues
Availability Must be ordered through dealerships or authorized repair shops Widely available at various retailers
Customization Limited to original specifications Wide range of options for customization
Resale Value Impact Helps maintain or increase resale value May decrease resale value due to non-original parts

Common Questions About OEM Parts

Are OEM Parts Always Better Than Aftermarket Parts?

While OEM parts are generally more reliable due to guaranteed compatibility and quality, some high-quality aftermarket parts can perform just as well. However, the consistency and warranty protection offered by OEM parts often make them the safer choice.

Are OEM Parts Made by Car Manufacturers?

Not always. While OEM parts are designed to the manufacturer’s specifications, they are often produced by specialized companies contracted by the car maker. Regardless, they meet the exact standards required for your vehicle.

Why Choose Elmer’s Auto Body for OEM Repairs

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we understand the importance of using the right parts for your vehicle. Here’s why South Jersey drivers trust us for OEM-certified repairs:

  1. Expertise
  • Certified Technicians: Our team is trained to perform repairs that meet or exceed manufacturer standards.
  • Decades of Experience: With over 75 years of service, we’ve handled vehicles of all makes and models.
  1. Trust
  • Customer Satisfaction: Our commitment to quality has earned us a reputation for excellence.
  • Transparent Process: We keep you informed every step of the way.
  1. Convenience
  • Seamless Service: From sourcing OEM parts to delivering the finished repair, we handle it all.
  • Efficient Repairs: Our expertise ensures your vehicle is returned to you promptly and in optimal condition.

Don’t compromise on quality or safety. Ensure your car receives the best care possible.

📞 Call Elmer’s Auto Body today at (856) 218-0202 or visit ElmersAutoBody.com to schedule your appointment.

Tips for Choosing Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts

  1. Read Your Warranty
  • Understand Coverage: Check if your warranty requires OEM parts to remain valid.
  • Avoid Unnecessary Costs: Using the wrong parts could lead to out-of-pocket expenses for repairs.
  1. Consider Long-Term Costs
  • Value Over Price: While OEM parts may cost more initially, their durability can save you money over time.
  • Resale Value: Maintaining your car with OEM parts can result in a higher resale price.
  1. Consult a Professional
  • Expert Advice: Our technicians can recommend the best options based on your vehicle and needs.
  • Safety First: Professionals prioritize your safety and vehicle performance.

Conclusion

Choosing between OEM and aftermarket parts is a decision that impacts your vehicle’s performance, safety, and value. While aftermarket parts may offer cost savings and customization, OEM parts provide unmatched reliability, compatibility, and warranty protection.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we prioritize your peace of mind and your car’s well-being.

👉 Don’t gamble with your car’s performance. Trust our experts for OEM-certified repairs that last.

📞 Call us today at (856) 218-0202 or schedule an appointment online at ElmersAutoBody.com.

Want to dive deeper into OEM parts and how they impact your car’s repair? Check out our latest podcast episode, where we break it all down—so you can make informed decisions for your vehicle’s health and longevity. Tune in now!

Key Takeaways

  • OEM parts are made to your car’s exact specifications, offering superior quality and compatibility.
  • Aftermarket parts may be cheaper but can lead to compatibility issues and voided warranties.
  • Elmer’s Auto Body provides expert OEM repairs, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable.
  • Consult professionals to make the best decision for your vehicle and maintain your peace of mind.

Secure your vehicle’s future with the best care possible.

📞 Contact Elmer’s Auto Body now at (856) 218-0202.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes and reflects general industry practices. For advice tailored to your specific situation, please consult a professional mechanic or your vehicle’s manufacturer.

Can A Car Accident Cause Transmission Problems?

Can A Car Accident Cause Transmission Problems?

When you take your car to the auto shop for repairs, the first step is always a diagnosis. At this stage, many people are holding their breath and nervously hoping that the problem isn’t the engine or the transmission. These are often the two most expensive and difficult parts of the car to repair, and that’s always a bad day for you.

To start, let’s answer the question posed by the title of this article: Yes, you absolutely can suffer transmission problems as a result of a car accident. Like any other part of your vehicle, a transmission can be ruined by a strong enough impact.

Impact Analysis Guide

After you have been in an accident, the first thing to check is your health. Once you know that you are not hurt, you should check the location of the impact. This will affect the likelihood of transmission damage. If you have a front-wheel-drive vehicle, the transmission will be located upfront. Thus, it will probably be safe if the car is struck from the rear. In rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles, the transmission will be in the back. Thus, it will probably be safe if the car is struck from the front.

In most cases, you will be able to visually inspect the damage and see if your transmission has been struck. It is usually one of the biggest parts of the vehicle, so it isn’t hard to find. Here are some pictures of a typical transmission to get you started. As you can see, there are slight differences in appearance between an automatic transmission and a manual one. Still, it shouldn’t be hard to find a component this large. When you have located the transmission, see if it’s leaking any fluid.

Any time your transmission has been struck by a direct impact, you should get it inspected by a qualified professional because it is probably damaged. Even if the outer casing is not damaged, the impact can knock those gears out of alignment and cause all kinds of problems.

Less Obvious Problems

Not all transmission problems will show themselves right away. You might drive away from the accident, thinking that nothing is wrong, only to find that your car is slipping out of gear or shifting too hard from one gear to the next. This will be especially obvious if you drive a manual transmission because you will feel the gears grinding as they try (and fail) to align correctly.

In most instances, this is not something that you can fix yourself. You might as well make peace with the fact that you will have to fork out some serious money to get this thing fixed. Transmission repairs can be so expensive that you might want to consider buying a different vehicle. However, there is something you can do to give your mechanic a better idea of the problem. Since they charge by the hour, this is likely to save you money.

A Quick Diagnosis

First, you will need to start your car and let it run until it reaches normal operating temperature. This will normally be the spot in the middle of the gauge, and you may want to step on the gas and rev the engine a little bit. This will speed up the process. Once you reach the right temperature, open the hood, and remove the transmission dipstick. If you don’t know where that is, try to find a parts diagram for your car. Your cars owner’s manual might also be of assistance here.

Keep the car running as you check the amount of fluid using the dipstick. If you are lucky, you might simply be low on fluid. In cases like this, you will be able to add the correct amount of fluid and call the problem fixed.

Next, close the hood and get in the car. Put the transmission in gear and see if it clunks or grinds. If it does, you have most likely found the problem. A clunking noise usually indicates that the gear mounts are failing. If it grinds, the gears might simply be misaligned due to impact.

Finally, give the car a short drive. Make sure that your vehicle shifts its gears enough for a proper test. If it slips in and out of gear, the problem is most likely in the clutch or the torque converter. Once again, you probably can’t fix those problems yourself, but you can save your mechanic some time.

Conclusion

Today’s article has been based on a simple question, and the answer is not a pleasant one. It would be nice if transmissions were better protected, but it won’t do us any good to lament that fact. All we can do is deal with the situation and get that crucial vehicle back on the road. By following the simple guidelines outlined here, you can probably take care of that process with a little less stress, uncertainty, and time. If you would like to thank us for that little bit of help, you can fill out the contact form below.