Sometimes, it can be difficult to remember that an automobile is a mechanical system operating in concert to create locomotion. There are pistons, belts, axles, and, most importantly, gears that transform the energy into motion at the wheels.
Checking under the hood can allow you to find out what is happening with the fan belts and the fluid levels, but sometimes you need to check underneath the car to discover the condition of these gears. Auto and manual transmission repair involves inspecting and fixing any problems that take place in the most important component of the vehicle, the one that literally transmits power to the wheels.
Regardless of whether it is manual or automatic, there is always a need for regular maintenance. Granted, transmission repair needs will be slightly less for a manual system because there are less complicated processes taking place, but both must be inspected periodically to ensure that there are no problems or damage to any of the parts.
For a manual, the primary part that needs to be replaced is called the clutch. This pair of plates engages and disengages to apply a driving force to the tires. It allows the driver to shift gears and thus, increase the ratio of the gears and accelerate to higher speeds. They generally last a long time but do occasionally need to be replaced as evidenced by slipping or inefficiency.
Automatic transmission repair is far more complicated. This requires the skilled and trained hands of a professional mechanic because of the complex components. Do not attempt to do this work alone, unless you have the tools and the prior knowledge to do it correctly. The risk of catastrophic failure is high and can be incredibly expensive.