Can’t get axle all the way flush to transmission

ANSWER : Hi there. There is typically a slot or notch on GM axle splines that need to be properly aligned in order to fully engage. Damage to a spline can also cause the shaft to not fully align as well. If the axle has been out of the transmission for an extended time, it’s also possible that rust or other debris has developed inside the transmission housing. One of the best resources that will help you correctly install the CV axle is a service and repair manual for the 2006 Cadillac DTS. Believe it or not, sometimes reviewing the instructions written by the engineers that designed the vehicle can simplify the process. If you’re in need of having a professional mechanic help you with this task, you can request a quote for this service by clicking this link.

ANSWER : Changing the transmission fluid and filter is perfectly adequate and, of course, while the pan is off the pan and pan magnet should be thoroughly cleaned (with a lint free cloth!). There is no need to flush the transmission. The service is relatively costly and is indeed sub-optimal if the pan is not removed and the filter changed. It is much more effective to simply change the fluid, at intervals specified by the manufacturer, or every 75,000 miles or so. If you desire this service, please request transmission fluid/filer change and the responding certified mechanic will get this taken care of for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

ANSWER : You didn’t mention that you had the axle replaced but if you did the new axle may be the wrong one for your car, or you may have to get the replacement axle and seal from the dealer.

This vehicle in particular may have had a certain year of seal and axle, which then changed during the following year or mid year. The only way to get it correct may require the specific dealer parts by using your VIN number, it’s the only way to get the correct ones if you keep having issues with aftermarket parts. I’d recommend having a certified mechanic diagnose it to help you find the right replacement for your axle shaft seal.

ANSWER : Aloha. Ah – the infamous "it’s all gone" excuse. To be quite blunt, you’re being ripped off. If a professional mechanic can’t explain what exactly is damaged with any mechanical component, they are taking advantage of you. I would get your car back and contact a different mechanic. Or, feel free to send us some information about the symptoms your car is experiencing that led you to take the car to the mechanic in the first place. Maybe we can help diagnose your issue and allow you to bring that info to a different mechanic. Mahalo.

ANSWER : Hi There,
This is a known issue in this generation Ford Focus and some Fiestas with the "Power Shift" transmission and there have been numerous recalls and lawsuits. Although, it is would be difficult to determine how much longer your transmission will last given the fact that you have many new parts, I would not recommend junking the car as it may still provide some valuable life left for you. I would recommend taking it to the dealer to see if these parts may be covered under the recall.

ANSWER : You may have a clogged heater core that may be prohibiting the outer linings of the heater core to get hot. As you know, the heater core is a series of tubes that the coolant runs through that generates the heat from the warm coolant after circulating through the motor. These tubes can occasionally develop a buildup on the inner walls such that when the heater core is "flushed" this buildup on the inner walls of the lines remains and still allows the coolant to flow through the heater core. It is important to note that when the heater core is "flushed" it is possible to get good flow through the heater core while the inside walls of the heater core remain caked with buildup. As a result, the buildup on the inner walls prevents the temperature from rising to its capability due to the insulating effect of this buildup on the inner walls which will prevent the necessary heat transfer to properly heat the inside of the car. I would recommend having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose and replace your heater core.

ANSWER : Hello. Yes, I would recommend getting the axle seal, and the back struts replaced before having the alignment done and tires replaced. These two tasks will require having an alignment done after they have been replaced anyway, so it’s less expensive to only have to do the alignment once. And replacing the tires before having the alignment done risks tire wear if your suspension is worn and out of alignment now. If you need a professional to check this out, a certified professional from YourMechanic can come to your car’s location to diagnose the leak firsthand and advise on repairs.

ANSWER : Hi – the transmission end of the axle has a "compression snap ring" that must be "popped" hard back into the case – being careful that the splines are correctly lined up first. For assistance if you are concerned about "technique" or damaging the transmission, I recommend an axle replacement service by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will come to your location, diagnose this problem, give you an accurate assessment of damage and cost estimate for repairs.