Buying a used vehicle can be a great way to save money, but it comes with a significant risk: inheriting expensive mechanical problems you didn’t see coming. Among all the components of a car, the transmission is one of the most complex, most costly to repair, and most easily overlooked during a standard test drive.
At Apache Transmission in Lubbock, we strongly advise every potential buyer to invest in a Pre-Purchase Transmission Inspection. This small upfront cost is the single best defense against the financial disaster of a major transmission failure shortly after you sign the papers.
Why the Transmission Is the Hidden Danger
You can check the tire tread, look for body damage, and listen to the engine during a test drive. But transmission problems often start subtle and worsen quickly. Here’s why you can’t trust just a quick spin around the block:
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Slipping Gears: A small internal leak or worn clutch bands may only cause a slight delay in shifting, which is easy to miss if you don’t know what you’re listening for.
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Contaminated Fluid: The fluid might look fine on the dipstick, but a complete inspection can detect microscopic metal debris—a sign of grinding components and impending catastrophic failure.
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Hiding the Problem: An unscrupulous seller might temporarily mask shifting issues with a quick fluid additive just long enough to make the sale.
What Our Pre-Purchase Inspection Covers
A comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by the experts at Apache Transmission goes far beyond a visual check. We perform a detailed evaluation designed to uncover hidden issues:
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Road Test and Diagnostic Scan: We perform a thorough road test, paying close attention to shift points, noise levels, and any hesitation or slipping. We then connect our diagnostic tools to check the Transmission Control Module (TCM) for stored fault codes that indicate previous problems, even if the Check Engine light isn’t currently on.
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Fluid and Leak Check: We check the fluid level, condition, and smell. Burnt fluid indicates severe overheating. We also inspect all seals, gaskets, and lines for any leaks that could compromise performance.
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Lift Inspection: We place the vehicle on a lift to inspect the transmission pan for leaks and check the U-joints and drivetrain components for any damage or excessive wear that could contribute to future transmission failure.
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Pinpointing Potential Failure Points: We evaluate the health of components like the torque converter and solenoids, which are vital to the transmission’s smooth operation and are often the first to fail under stress.
The True Value of the Inspection
The cost of a pre-purchase inspection is minimal, usually amounting to less than $150. Compare that to the cost of a full transmission rebuild or replacement, which can easily range from $3,000 to over $6,000.
An inspection gives you three key advantages:
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Negotiating Power: If we find minor issues, you can use our detailed report to negotiate a lower price that covers the cost of necessary repairs.
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Peace of Mind: If the vehicle passes, you can buy with confidence, knowing a team of professionals has thoroughly vetted the transmission.
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Averted Disaster: If we find a major issue, you walk away from a bad deal, saving yourself thousands of dollars and immense stress.
Don’t buy a used car in Lubbock without calling Apache Transmission first. Protect your investment by knowing what’s under the hood.
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