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Nobody ever wants to have to call a towing company. On top of the cost, it is also usually pretty inconvenient. There are a number of reasons why people need and call towing companies, however, some people do all that they can to avoid the call. Fortunately, we are going to provide instances in which you should absolutely resort to calling a towing company for assistance. If you find yourself in one of these situations, you will hopefully be better informed to take action after this article. When inquiring about a Philadelphia auto repair, we suggest you give us a call or pay us a visit for expert and professional care!

Out of Gas

Calling a tow truck is never a wonderful experience, yet there are some occasions when this cannot be avoided. If you are driving and suddenly run out of gas, there are most likely few options better than calling up the closest towing service to help you out. Not only can a tow truck give you a lift to the closest gas station, but they can also bring the gas to you, which could be even better than the former. Calling a towing service is not a sign of failure or inadequacy, in fact, there are plenty of legitimate reasons even the best of drivers must dial up a tow truck for assistance. It is estimated that around 800,000 drivers run out of fuel each year, so when you look at it this way, it only seems normal that this should happen to you from time to time.

Flat Tire

Many people are prepared when they encounter a flat tire while driving, while some people are completely blindsided. So long as you have all that you need in order to change your vehicle’s tire on your own, you won’t have to worry about calling a towing service. However, if you aren’t equipped with a spare tire and the tools necessary to get the job done yourself, you’ll definitely want to call up the closest towing service for assistance. They will be able to safely transport you and your vehicle off the road and out of any potential danger. This can all be avoided though if you have proper tire maintenance.

Accident

Millions of accidents happen per year, so if you find yourself facing a similar situation then there is no need to panic. First, it’s important that you make sure that everyone involved is okay. If there are injuries involved, then you will obviously want to contact an ambulance immediately. Additionally, if you discover that your vehicle is not able to be driven after the accident, then it’s recommended that you call a towing service for some assistance.

Breakdowns

If your vehicle has unexpectedly broken down while you were driving, then towing service will be able to transport your vehicle to the closest repair shop for further inspections and repairs. It is always best to keep a cool head in these situations and avoid panicking. So long as you have a cellphone on hand, calling a fleet service and repair assistance is easy!

We offer expert auto repair in Philadelphia, PA! see what our clients says about us.

With the beginning of springtime coming around, it’s important that we stay vigilant with the upkeep of our vehicles. While cars need all-around maintenance and upkeep before the beginning of spring, the tires on your vehicle are especially important. If you’ve done maintenance on your entire vehicle but have neglected the tires, you could be headed into some unforeseen hassles and issues later down the line. Here, we break down everything to know about tire maintenance in the spring. Philadelphia auto repair is available when you stop by or give us a call! We are always happy to help in any way that we can!

Tires

By the time spring comes around, the air pressure in our tires will need proper adjusting. This is because the air pressure in our tires changes about 2% for every 10 degrees change in temperature. So, when the temperatures drop in winter our vehicles will obviously require more air for proper functionality. However, in the spring as the temperatures begin to rise so will the air pressure of our tires. This can lead, unfortunately, to overinflation which can result in a reduction in your tire’s traction and performance. If you neglect to maintain your tires, chances are you get a flat tire without any spare and you may need to get in touch with a car towing service to help you out.

Alignment Check

While most of us enjoy what spring has to offer, there are some negatives that require some attention. One of the worst things that drivers can expect to encounter in spring is the formation of brand new potholes on the roads. Due to this, you’ll want to make sure to get your alignment checked regularly as hitting a pothole can seriously alter your vehicle’s wheel alignment and steering.

Tire Rotation

While you’re busy checking your car’s alignment, it’s a good idea to use this time to also have your vehicle’s tires rotated as well. Doing so ensures balanced handling, maintains traction, and promotes even tread wear. All of these factors work together to ensure your safety while out on the road.

Take Off Winter Tires

If you were using winter tires during the colder months, it is now time to switch over. We recommend opting for all-season or summer tires for the best performance and health of your vehicle. There are a number of reasons why you want to avoid driving with winter tires in the spring, one of them being that doing so will greatly reduce fuel efficiency. Additionally, your tires will see an increase in wear and tear, which nobody wants. When choosing between summer or all-season tires for your vehicle, the choice is really up to you. Summer tires are designed to run on dry and wet roads. These types of tires provide optimal grip and road holding, which is always a plus. All-season tires, on the other hand, are quite versatile and are usually designed to work in cold and summer temperatures as well. Additionally, all-season tires function well on wet conditions similar to summer tires.

We hope that we helped give you a better idea as to why tire maintenance during the spring is so vital not only for the safety of yourself and your passengers but also for the health of your vehicle as well. Let us know which tip saved you some money in the long run. If you need auto repair in Philadelphia, PA or information on car maintenance tips, we are always open and willing to help!

As the weather begins to warm, it is only natural that people will begin spending more and more time outdoors and on the roads. Whether you’re planning a road trip or not, maintaining the health of our vehicles depending on the season is absolutely essential. Springtime is right around the corner, so we’ve decided to come up with spring maintenance service tips to ensure the health of your vehicle this season! Our list is so simple, that everyone, car expert or not, will be able to easily follow along and complete each task. If you need a Philadelphia auto repair, we are more than happy to assist you in any way that we can check these services!

Wash and Wax

Wintertime can wreak havoc on your vehicle, so it’s important to ensure that your car is washed and waxed thoroughly once the weather begins warming up. Be sure to get the underside of your vehicle as well! Additionally, applying some rust-proof to your vehicle can be an effective salt-busting shield!

Fluid Checks

Once springtime rolls around, you’ll want to do a check of your car’s fluids and replenish them as needed. Winter is known to not only wear on your car’s exterior but the interior as well. This is because in the winter your engine is forced to work harder than normal and due to this the resulting condensation and moisture build-up can create wear over time. If you notice that the fluid levels in your vehicle are low, this is usually because the fluid is leaking or being consumed by the engine. If you decide to change your car’s oil on your oil, remember that it is vital that you are using the correct oil based on your vehicle’s manufacturer.

Tires

If you switched over to winter tires in the winter months, it is now time for you to change them accordingly. If you used all-season tires, however, then you can easily extend the life by having them rotated regularly! Tire maintenance is very important to avoid unnecessary costs.

Windshield Wiper Blades

Since windshield wiper blades are made of rubber, this makes them especially susceptible to damage over time from winter’s cold temperatures and salt. Once winter is over and spring is beginning, you’ll want to do a thorough assessment of your wiper blades. If you notice that they are in bad shape, then the simple solution would be to replace them as soon as you can. Fortunately, replacing your wiper blades is an easy process, so you won’t have to worry about having to take your vehicle somewhere. Additionally, while checking your wiper blades it’s always good practice to also check your wiper fluid as well and replenish accordingly.

Brakes

Similar to windshield wipers, the brakes in our vehicles can take a beating during the winter months as well. It’s always a good idea to routinely take your vehicle in somewhere to inspect the brake pads and drums. If you notice any grinding, cranking, or squealing noises when you utilize the brakes, this is usually a sign that they are in need of replacing.

Getting quality car repair in Philadelphia, PA has never been easier see our testimonials when you stop by and visit us!

Discovering that your trusty vehicle is in need of repairs that can’t be handled with a simple Google search can be frustrating—we get it. It is also understandable that you may seek out your dealership as a result, as they are readily equipped with skilled professionals who use state-of-the-art equipment, techniques, and processes. Yet, like everything, there are some downsides to this option. Here, we’ll explain why auto repair shops may save you a lot less headache than the latter. Philadelphia auto repair has never been easier when you come to us. Stop in and we’ll be happy to chat!

Certified Mechanics

Just like dealerships, auto repair shops are bursting with like-minded and skilled professionals who know their way around any vehicle issue. Auto repair mechanics are experts in their field and must go through extensive training before working in any shop. Additionally, many auto repair shops out there actually require that their mechanics earn an OEM certification. In case you’re not familiar, OEM stands for ‘original equipment manufacturer’ and guarantees that the mechanic can perform auto repairs with OEM parts. These parts are the same ones used during car assembly which is good news as it ensures that your mechanic has extensive knowledge in various types of parts, equipment, tools, and processes.

Personalized Support

While you are guaranteed skilled professionals when you go to a dealership for repairs, you also are setting yourself up to be just another customer among a sea of others. When you go to an auto repair shop, on the other hand, things are handled a lot differently. With shops, you are more than just a number, in fact, customers expect to receive more personalized support. Customers can expect opportunities to speak at length with their mechanics about any questions and concerns they may have. Additionally, your mechanic will often want to learn more about your vehicle’s history before beginning work, and while working on your vehicle they typically strive to keep their customer in the loop about any updates. They will even provide you with many car maintenance tips to further keep your car road worthy.

Affordability

One of the most attractive reasons people make the switch over from dealership to local auto repair shop is the cost. Seeking out a dealership may bring you a certain peace of mind, yet when it comes time to pay up you can be left feeling blindsided by the cost of your bill. On the contrary, auto repair shops can offer you the exact same services as a dealership for just a fraction of the cost. We classify that as an easy determining factor—but you decide!

No, it’s never fun or exciting to realize that your vehicle is in need of some serious repairs. When we need professionals to turn to, it is common that we want only the best of the best for our vehicle. Yet, it’s important to understand that the best is not always the company that is the biggest. In fact, oftentimes, the best services out there are ones that offer a one-on-one personalized approach, which is what our auto repair shop guarantees. If you need auto repair in Philadelphia, PA we welcome you to stop by and talk to any of our skilled professionals!

On a side note, we’ve published a post on how to avoid road rage crash, which I think will be beneficial to you.

As drivers, we can all agree that road rage is an unpleasant experience while out on the road. Whether we are experiencing it ourselves or are on the receiving end of it, negative and aggressive energy while operating a motor vehicle is not ideal or recommended. So, while we can’t absolutely avoid how others will react, we can, however, take measures to ensure our own safety while also preventing any unnecessary collisions. Here we will walk you through our tips and suggestions for how you can best avoid a road rage crash in the future. Philadelphia auto repair is made easy with us. Contact us with any questions you may have!

Road Rage Examples

Road rage can look a number of different ways, so it’s important to notice all aspects of it when you encounter them. A typical sign that someone on the road is experiencing this rage is if they are yelling or angrily signaling with their hands and arms. Additionally, if anyone on the road is speeding, tailgating, swerving in front of other drivers, honking excessively, bumping, or ramming their vehicle into others, blocking vehicles, and slamming their brakes these are all telltale signs of road rage. If you encounter an angry driver on the road exhibiting any of these signs or attempting to exit their vehicle to begin an argument, we strongly advise that you not engage and contact the authorities.

Road Rage Accident Prevention

Avoid Assumptions

Our first tip for road rage accident prevention is that you should never make assumptions. What we mean by this is that if a driver in front of you is driving slowly, we should avoid immediately assuming why their speed is so slow. The driver could be lost, a new driver, or experiencing mechanical trouble. It’s best to stay level-headed during these situations and give others the benefit of the doubt before jumping to any hasty conclusions.

Avoid Rushing

Additionally, when out on the road you should try your best not to rush. Rushing is an easy way to get into a road rage collision, as it can be a stressful experience. To avoid this, be sure to check the traffic on your route ahead of time and allow yourself an ample amount of time for your trip.

Don’t Drive Angry

An easy way to find yourself in an unnecessary collision is choosing to drive while angry. If you are experiencing anger for any reason, we suggest waiting until you have cooled down emotionally before deciding to operate a motor vehicle. Oftentimes, when we are angry our judgment and common sense can tend to take the backseat while our emotions take over. Driving a vehicle requires that drivers remain responsible, so keep that in mind!

Don’t Use Offensive Hand Gestures

If someone on the road does something that makes you upset, avoid reacting with unnecessary and rude hand gestures. While driving can undoubtedly be a very frustrating task at times, offensive gestures and words can and oftentimes do lead to road rage incidents and confrontation. We suggest playing it safe and learning to handle your emotions in a mature and sensible way.

It is no secret that driving on the road can lead to many unpleasant emotions. We want you and your family to always remain safe while behind the wheel, so we hope that our tips and suggestions keep you safe in the future. If you need car repair in Philadelphia, PA we are only a call away!

When you took history in school, you talked about the War of 1812 or how the settlers came to the U.S. You probably didn’t learn too much about tires, right? Well, today, you’re in luck! The experts at Schafer’s Auto Center would like to take you back to history class and teach you a little bit about the history of modern Philadelphia tires!

As you may have noticed in the last couple of decades…things change. There’s not much you can do to stop it. While you may click one button on your phone now to make a call instead of using a rotary dial, have you ever thought about how much tires have changed over the years? Probably not!

Before air was used in tires, they were covered by leather, wood, iron, or solid rubber. They weren’t very shock absorbent, but they had some grip to them and they were very durable! It took a number of years for tires to progress to the way we see them today.

The modern tire was actually created and patented by Robert Thompson in 1847. However, it wasn’t very successful. At that time, people preferred solid rubber because it was more durable. But when bicycles became popular in later years, the concept of a smoother ride became more popular. John Boyd Dunlop manufactured an air-filled tire in 1888 and the cushion allowed him to ride a bike without getting a headache on bumpy roads. The design was simple, but it worked!

The first few air-filled tire designs were simple and easy. However, the materials have changed over the years and the design, durability, and functionality have changed with it. Tire tread, for example, is one of the most innovative design changes to help the surface grip with the tires and aid handling. Tread and rubber can help vehicles handle better in many different road conditions.

Who knows what the future will hold when it comes to tire evolution. There are hundreds of factories around the world pumping out tires for a number of different reasons. You get the comfort and performance you need on a bike, in a car, and in a number of other areas. Whether you want a certain ride or a certain way of handling, there’s a tire for you. The only trick is finding the right tire for the job you have at hand!

Whether you know what you need today or not, you can count on the experts at Schafer’s Auto Center. SAC is here to outfit your vehicle with the best Philadelphia tire for your needs. Give us a call at 215-755-1270 and we’ll get started on finding that tire. If you do a lot of driving in the winter, we’ll make sure you have superior grip. If you’re more concerned about appearance, we’ll get you the best-looking tires on the market. Whatever you want, we’ll find it for you. Stop by at your convenience and see some options in person at 1924 S Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19148.

If there’s one thing your vehicle needs more than anything else, it’s tires. And tires are the only thing that connects the vehicle to the road. They take a lot over their years of use so it’s important that they get changed out at the right time. Of course, there are probably a lot of things you would rather buy instead of tires in Philadelphia, PA. But when your vehicle needs tires, it’s important to move forward with the replacement process. So what do you need in new tires? Here are some tips to help you decide:

Tip 1: Check To See What You Have

Before you buy tires that are too big, too small, or too fancy for your vehicle, check the tires you currently have and see what they are. The tires will tell you their size, brand, diameter, and many other things. Have you been happy with those tires? Have they lasted a long time? If you don’t really want a change, check and see what you have and get something that is similar to what you enjoyed in the past.

Tip 2: Consider Changes You Want

Are there things about your tires that you didn’t like? Perhaps they don’t do well in the hot Philadelphia weather or they give you a bumpy ride. When you are getting new tires anyway, it is a good time to look into possible changes to make your vehicle operate the way it should or the way you want it to. There are certainly plenty of options on the market and you can get tires that do well in snow, hold up to high temperatures, or endure heavy loads. Whatever you need, you can find.

Tip 3: Prices Are Relative

In many ways, you get what you pay for in the tire world. But you also want to make sure you are getting a fair price. There are some tire companies that will charge you more than others so once you decide what you want, shop around to make sure you get the best, most fair price. Paying a small price for tires, however, isn’t always a good idea as they may be low in quality. Once you find quality tires, compare those prices to other like-tires in order to find the best deal. Quality is important to longevity and you certainly don’t want to replace the tires again any time soon!

If you are in the market for new Philadelphia, PA tires, use the expertise at Schafer’s Auto Center. Our technicians know tires like the backs of their hands and we know just how to help those who need to find a certain tire, whatever that might be. Contact Schafer’s Auto Center by calling 215-755-1270 to ask questions about tires. If you aren’t sure what to ask, stop by SAC and show us what you have at 1924 S Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19148 and we’ll come up with some recommendations as to what will serve your vehicle the best in the future.

Your family might have just about everything you feel like you could want. You all have cell phones with more computing power than you could ever dream of. There’s an electric dog trimmer for the pets. You have personalized coffee mugs for every occasion. When someone’s birthday rolls around, what can you possibly get them that they don’t already have? Instead of floundering around the stores, think about giving someone (or your entire family!) the gift of safety. It’s not as shiny as something you open in a little box, but it’s a much better gift overall.

Tires aren’t’ a gift that just anyone will appreciate. They don’t have the same appeal as an edible fruit basket. But a set of new tires is much more than some people recognize. Once all of the elements are evident, they’ll appreciate it too. Here’s why!

• Tires are the only part of the car that touches the road. When you want your family to be safe, you are showing your feelings for them. Getting new tires gives them capable handling and could even save their life down the road.
• The right tires on a vehicle are like handing someone the gift of a good ride. Cars drive rough on worn down tires. Instead of a box of chocolates they’ll eat once, they get to enjoy the ride over and over again.
• You get the gift of safety with new tires, but what about peace and quiet? There’s a lot to be said for quality tires, which can cut down on vibrations and road noise. People can converse in the car again, enjoy their music, and get a break from the rest of the world.
• New tires show that you are dedicated to that person and to your family. Tires are something that last a long time and promote efficiency. They’ll save the family money on gas. They’ll get everyone where they’re going safety. There’s nothing like that kind of commitment to make a recipient feel good about the gift.

You may have never thought about giving someone, or your whole family, the gift of new tires. It’s not likely on anyone’s birthday list, after all. But living in Philadelphia puts demands on any vehicle and a new set of tires may be something your loved one truly needs. You can show them your love and commitment by providing a gift they actually need when there’s nothing else they could possibly want.

If you’re ready to look through some of the tire options, contact Schafer’s Auto Center at 215-755-1270. We can help you get the exact right tire for your vehicle so it will fit like a dream and drive even better. We understand how important tires are. They’re the only part of the car touching the road! They keep you safe and that’s important to us! Stop by and see us in our shop at 1924 S Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19148. We are one of the most trusted auto repair specialists in Philadelphia, PA.

You drive your vehicle every day, but do you feel like you’re also stopping by the gas station every day? Or at least more often than you should have to? When you bought your vehicle, you were smart about it. You looked into things like gas mileage and looked forward to saving money in that way. So how can you increase the gas mileage on your vehicle without trading it in? The pros at SAR have some tips for you!

Tip 1: Slow Down
You don’t want to disrupt traffic, but any time you can brake more slowly instead of slamming the brakes on, or accelerate gradually instead of trying to be in a race, you’re doing a good thing for your gas mileage. You may not always be able to control how you brake if someone pulls out in front of you, but the more controlled you are, the better.

Tip 2: Notice Wind Resistance
While it’s hard not to open a sunroof or window on a beautiful Philadelphia day, it can up your gas bill and decrease your mileage. If you are driving slowly in your neighborhood, go for it. But keep things sealed up when you are driving faster to make your gas mileage better.

Tip 3: No Warm Ups or Cool Downs
It might be tough to jump into your car when the cold Philadelphia winter hits, or when the hot summer settles in, even. But the more often you run your car, the more gas it will use. Suffer through a few minutes of hot or cold temperatures, if you can, and save money on your gas stops.

Tip 4: Lighten Load
No, you shouldn’t leave a child at home just to make the car lighter, but if you have a lot of heavy items in your trunk for no reason, take them out! Anything that you can do to lighten the vehicle will decrease your gas stops.

Tip 5: Get Auto Maintenance and Service
Your car needs to be running at the top of its game in order to maintain its efficiency. Get regular oil changes! Get an auto maintenance and service check as recommended in your owner’s manual! Do what the factory recommends and you’ll get the best gas mileage your vehicle is capable of getting.

Tip 6: Check the Tires
When you get auto maintenance and service, the technicians will check the tires for you, but it never hurts to keep an eye on them yourself between checkups. IF your tires are under or overinflated, it can drag and cause you to use more gas. Know what your tires should be and inflate them to that level to save money.

These are just a few of the things you can do to save money at the gas pump. If you need more advice, or you want to schedule your auto service in Philadelphia, contact Schafer’s Auto Repair at 215-755-1270. SAR is located at 1924 S Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19148!

How to Avoid Expensive Transmission Repair Cost

No one wants to pay for expensive transmission repairs, but unfortunately, it is a reality for many people. Transmission repairs can be costly, but there are ways to avoid the high cost. One way to prevent transmission repair costs is to have your transmission checked regularly. You can quickly catch most transmission problems before they become expensive to repair. Another way to avoid transmission repair costs is to drive carefully. Avoiding hard starts and stops, going smoothly, and avoiding potholes can all help to prevent transmission damage. Finally, be sure to keep your transmission clean and free of debris. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help extend your transmission’s life and avoid costly repairs down the road.

How Much Does a New Transmission Cost?

A new transmission can be a costly repair, but the exact cost will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Generally, you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $4,000 for a new transmission. If you have a luxury vehicle, the transmission cost could be even higher. In addition to the cost of the new transmission, you will also need to pay for labor costs and other fees associated with the repair. Ultimately, the best way to get an accurate estimate is to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic for an inspection.

Why is Transmission Repair So Expensive?

When it comes to what pushes your vehicle down the road, there’s nothing more complicated than the transmission. Whether you have a manual or automatic, it will help shift gears and change your speed. You get power to your wheels based on your speed and acceleration. Shifting between gears is necessary and it’s what your transmission takes care of for you. Keep an eye on that transmission when you live in Philadelphia or other places around the country.

Avoid Having to Replace or Rebuild
It would be best if you change your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 50,000 miles to help avoid damage. You should change your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 50,000 miles to help avoid damage. You should also completely stop the vehicle from moving before you shift from drive to reverse or vice versa. If you hear a grinding when you shift or if there’s a delay when you change gears, it might be too late, and you may need transmission repair. If you smell burning fluids or have high RPMs, you should take the vehicle in for attention right away.

Transmission Repair: Rebuilding
Rebuilding a transmission is labor intensive, but can save you money over buying and installing a new one. If you need transmission repair, you could get a simple fix like changing the fluid, adjusting some links, correcting a computer system that’s misreading the RPM, or replacing a sensor. When you have a transmission issue, don’t assume that you need a rebuilt transmission as part of the transmission repair.

Transmission Repair: Replacement
Replacing a transmission is one of the most expensive repair jobs you can do with your vehicle. You must take your car somewhere you trust with experienced, honest technicians. It is a good idea to find a shop that specializes in transmissions so you can trust that they have worked with your type of vehicle before. Automatic transmissions cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 to repair and can even range up to $3,500 for a complete replacement. Manual transmissions are less, but they’re still costly.

Finding the right auto repair shop is highly important if you want to save time, money, and headaches in the long run with Philadelphia, PA transmission repair. Ask your family and friends if they have any experience with transmission repair with local shops around Philadelphia. If you can’t find anyone you know who has experience, look online for reviews.

Whether you know what your transmission needs, or you just suspect repairs are inevitable, you can trust the friendly representatives at Schafer’s Auto Center. We see transmission issues of every kind on a regular basis and we know just what to do about them. We won’t fix a thing until we explain everything to you and make sure you understand what we recommend. We’ll also give you price quotes up front so there are no hidden costs later. Give SAR a call at 215-755-1270 if you need your transmission fluid changed or you need transmission repair. We’re here to help! We’re located at 1924 S Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19148 and we hope to see you soon!

Auto Repair FAQs

How Long Should a Transmission Normally Last?

There isn’t a definitive answer to this question since transmissions can vary in lifespan based on make, model, and driving habits. However, regular maintenance should last anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles. If you’re noticing problems with your transmission or it’s starting to sound louder than usual, it’s best to bring it in for service as soon as possible. Otherwise, you may end up needing a costly repair or replacement.

How Do I Know if My Transmission is in Bad Condition?

If your car is jerking or hesitant when you put it into gear or if you’re experiencing a grinding noise, those are both signs that something is wrong with your transmission. Other symptoms can include leaks underneath the car, difficulty shifting gears, and strange smells emanating from the engine. Finally, you can take your vehicle in for a diagnostic test at a mechanic’s shop to find out exactly what’s wrong with your auto.

Is it Worth It to Replace My Transmission with a New One?

It depends on the transmission. If your transmission is still in good condition, there’s no need to replace it. However, a new one may be the best option if your transmission is damaged or worn out.