What Does a Free Transmission Diagnostic Actually Tell You?

If your vehicle is showing signs of transmission trouble—like slipping gears, delayed shifting, or unusual noises—your first instinct may be to search for a “free transmission diagnostic near me.” But what does that free diagnostic actually include?

Not all diagnostics are equal, and knowing what to expect can help you avoid guesswork, upsells, or incomplete information.

Let’s break down exactly what a quality free transmission diagnostic should tell you—and how it works at Advanced Transmission Center.

Why Is a Transmission Diagnostic Important?

Transmissions are complex systems with dozens of moving parts, electrical sensors, and fluid dynamics at play. What feels like a major issue could be something simple—like low transmission fluid or a faulty sensor.

A proper diagnostic test helps you:

• Identify the true cause of transmission problems
  
• Avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary repairs
  
• Get clarity before committing to any service
  
• Decide whether to repair, rebuild, or replace

⚙️ Not sure what’s wrong? Bring your vehicle in today for a FREE TrueTest™ Diagnostic.
Call us at Lakewood (303) 816-3856 or Westminster (303) 647-5257

What’s Typically Included in a Free Transmission Diagnostic?

The value of a transmission diagnostic depends entirely on how thorough the shop is. At Advanced Transmission Center, our TrueTest™ Inspection goes beyond the basics. Here’s what’s included:

✅ 1. Initial Customer Interview

We’ll start by asking you about symptoms:

• When did the issue start?
  
• Is it worse during acceleration or shifting?
  
• Have you noticed fluid leaks, noises, or warning lights?
  
  

Your input gives our team context that computers alone can’t capture.

✅ 2. Test Drive Evaluation

A skilled technician will test drive your vehicle and monitor for:

• Slipping or jerky shifts
  
• Delayed acceleration
  
• Vibration, clunking, or whining sounds
  
• Overheating or shifting irregularities

Real-world testing helps us replicate the issue.

✅ 3. Electronic Scan (OBD-II or Advanced)

We’ll hook up diagnostic tools to check your vehicle’s computer system. This step:

• Pulls error codes related to the transmission
  
• Shows the data stream between major electrical components and points out potential electrical or mechanical failures

⚠️ Note: Not all transmission problems will trigger a code, so this is just one piece of the puzzle—not the full story.

✅ 4. Fluid Inspection

We’ll inspect your transmission fluid for:

• Color (clear red = healthy; dark or burnt = trouble)
  
• Smell (burnt odor signals overheating)
  
• Level and possible contamination

A fluid check can reveal wear-and-tear or internal component issues.

✅ 5. Lift Inspection 

We will also physically inspect your vehicle on a lift to:

• Look for leaks, loose mounts, or linkage issues
  
• Check driveshafts, axles, and external components
  
• Examine the transmission housing

This visual check can uncover problems that diagnostics can’t.

What a Diagnostic Won’t Tell You

A diagnostic is a starting point—not a teardown.

Unless you authorize a full disassembly, we can’t see internal damage like:

• Worn clutch packs
  
• Broken bands or gear teeth
  
• Internal valve body issues

However, our TrueTest™ Diagnostic can give you a high-confidence diagnosis based on experience, inspection, and symptoms—without pressure.

You’ll walk away knowing what’s wrong, what it will cost, and what your options are.
No games. No vague estimates.

What Happens After the Diagnostic?

After completing the inspection, we’ll walk you through:

• The root cause of the problem (or possible causes)
  
• The repair or rebuild options
  
• Pricing and turnaround times
  
• Warranty coverage
  
• Whether your vehicle is safe to drive or tow

We’ll always offer clear, honest recommendations based on what’s best for you.

Why Choose Advanced Transmission Center?

Unlike general auto repair shops, we specialize in transmissions. That means:

• Our diagnostics are more precise
  
• Our repairs are done faster
  
• Our warranties are stronger
  
• Our techs are ASE-certified and transmission-focused

And yes, the diagnostic is 100% FREE—with no obligation to approve a repair.

Visit Us in Lakewood or Westminster, CO

We’ve helped thousands of Colorado drivers make smart, confident decisions about their transmission. We’re ready to help you too.

️ Schedule Your FREE TrueTest™ Diagnostic Today
Call us at Lakewood (303) 816-3856 or Westminster (303) 647-5257
Just stop by—walk-ins welcome