Oil changes in Reno
An oil change replaces the engine's used oil and oil filter with fresh ones to keep the engine lubricated and clean. A-1 Transmission in Reno lists oil changes among its services; its own words describes them as part of work that runs "from oil changes to complete overhauls."
Closed now. Opens Monday at 7:30 am.
Symptoms
Signs that point to this work
Most people think of a transmission shop for the big jobs, but the shop's own website says: "Keep your motor running with our automotive services team. From oil changes to complete overhauls, we will make sure your ride is smooth." Oil changes are the simplest way to protect the engine that drives the transmission, and you can call the shop to ask about one.
What an oil change does
Engine oil lubricates moving parts, carries heat away from places coolant cannot reach, and holds soot and tiny particles in suspension until the filter catches them. Over time the oil thins, the additives wear out and the filter fills. An oil change drains the old oil, replaces the filter, and refills the engine with the right amount of oil of the right grade.
Which oil, and how often
Your owner's manual names the oil grade and the service interval, and the fuel economy site run by the U.S. Department of Energy tells drivers to use the manufacturer's recommended grade. Using the wrong grade can lower fuel economy by one to two percent. Manuals often give a shorter interval for severe use such as towing, short trips, dust and extreme temperatures. Reno's normal July high is about 94 degrees Fahrenheit and its normal December low is about 26, according to NOAA, so many drivers here live in the severe-service column.
Why a transmission shop cares
The engine and the transmission share a lot: a leaking engine seal can drip onto transmission parts, and an engine running low on oil can overheat, which stresses everything it drives. When a vehicle comes in for an oil change, the mechanic is at the vehicle anyway. If you have noticed something about shifting, a leak or a smell, mention it. The pages on fluid leaks and burning smells explain how to tell oil from transmission fluid.
Before you call
Have the year, make, model and engine ready, along with the mileage and the date of the last oil change. Ask about timing and cost when you call; the shop will tell you for your vehicle. Appointments are suggested and walk-ins are welcome Monday to Friday, 7:30 am to 5:30 pm.
- Year, make, model and engine
- Mileage and the date of the last oil change
- Anything new: a warning light, a drip, a smell, a noise
Keep reading
Related pages
Inside the shop
The shop at 670 East Grove Street
Google reviews
What drivers say
★★★★★A-1 Transmission is my go to Transmission shop. I’ve been going to them for years now. These guys don’t mess around when it comes to Transmissions they know their stuff. I highly recommend A-1 Transmission, if you want the job done right the first time.
★★★★★I could not recommend this company any higher. They were extremely friendly and helpful. Very professional!!!
★★★★★Our transmission went out on a Sunday, we called A1 on Monday morning, they got us in that day. Had to rebuild the transmission, and they were done with our truck on Thursday.
Answers
Oil changes questions
Still have a question? Call (775) 829-1333 during shop hours. More answers are on the questions page.
Does A-1 Transmission do oil changes?
Yes. Oil changes are one of the services the shop lists, and its website describes its work as running from oil changes to complete overhauls.
How do I tell engine oil from transmission fluid on the ground?
Transmission fluid is usually red or brown and thin; engine oil is usually amber to black. Where it sits under the vehicle matters too. The fluid leak page has more.
How often should I change my oil?
Follow the owner's manual for your vehicle and driving. Severe use such as towing and short trips often calls for a shorter interval.
Services
Other work at the shop
Auto repair and maintenanceA-1 Transmission in Reno is a transmission shop that also does general auto repair and maintenance for cars, trucks and SUVs.
Transmission repairTransmission repair means finding what is wrong inside or around the transmission and fixing that part.
Transmission rebuilds and overhaulsA-1 Transmission rebuilds and overhauls automatic and standard transmissions in Reno, for cars, trucks, RVs and 4x4s.
Automatic transmission repairAutomatic transmission repair covers the gear sets, clutches, valve body, torque converter and electronics that shift for you.
Standard (manual) transmission repairA standard, or manual, transmission is the gearbox you shift yourself with a clutch pedal and a shifter.
Clutch repair and replacementA clutch is the wear item between your engine and a manual gearbox.
Transfer case repairA transfer case is the gearbox that splits power between the front and rear axles in a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
Transmission diagnosisTransmission diagnosis is the step where a mechanic finds out what is actually wrong before choosing a repair.
Transmission fluid serviceTransmission fluid service replaces the worn fluid that cools, lubricates and operates your transmission.