Automatic Transmission Services: Diagnostics, Repairs & Tuning
Automatic Transmission Services: Diagnostics, Repairs & Tuning –This page is for Owners Who Tow, Work, and Push Their Rig Hard.
Whether you’re hauling tools to the site or towing a caravan up the Bruce or lucky enough to be hammering the 4WD tracks of Bribie, your automatic transmission is doing more work than most people realise. And if it’s not shifting like it should — or worse, slipping under load — that’s a sign your vehicle isn’t just getting tired; it’s calling for help.
At Brisbane Tuning & Turbo, we specialise in automatic transmission diagnostics, repairs, and performance tuning — specifically for platforms like the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, and MMC Triton. Whether you’re chasing reliability, looking to upgrade, or just want peace of mind before the next big tow, our in-house transmission service offering has you covered.
Why Automatic Transmission Health Matters for Utes
Modern diesel utes are putting out serious torque — especially once tuned. That torque gets pushed through the auto box, torque converter, clutch packs and fluid circuits every time you plant your foot. The problem? Most factory automatic transmissions weren’t designed for heavy long-term towing, GVM upgrades, or big power mods.
We’re seeing a pattern:
Harsh or delayed shifts…
Shudder under load…
Overheating under tow…
Transmission slipping or flaring between gears…
Stuck in limp mode with shift faults or TCM errors…
These are signs your transmission needs attention — not guesswork.
Automatic Transmission Diagnostics — Precision Testing
At Brisbane Tuning & Turbo, we don’t do “maybe it’s the box.” We use live-data transmission diagnostics on our in-house dyno to test:
Automatic Transmission strategic number
Shift quality under load…
Torque converter lockup performance…
Solenoid behaviour…
Line pressure stability…
Transmission fluid temperature dynamics…
We also use factory-level scan tools Autel MS906, Forscan, Abrites AVDI to:
Read live TCM data…
Reset and relearn adaptive shift strategies…
Program valve body solenoid codes (for rebuilt or upgraded units)…
Access Ford/Mazda-specific service functions unavailable to generic workshops.
If your trans is flaring, slipping, banging into gear or running hot, we’ll know exactly why — and exactly what it needs.
Repairs & Upgrades — Built to Handle Torque, Towing, and Tuning
Once the fault is found, we move fast. Our service offering includes:
Automatic transmission Second Hand replacement unit just being delivered
Valve Body Repairs or Replacements.
Faulty solenoids? We’ll test, replace or reprogram.
New valve body? We program the solenoid ID code and reset shift learn.
Optional: upgraded shift kits for better engagement.
Torque Converter Replacements or HD Upgrades.
Stock converters can’t handle torque post-tune.
We supply and install heavy-duty billet or upgraded stall converters.
Perfect for tradies towing trailers or anyone running big power.
Transmission Servicing & Fluid Flushes
We only use OEM-spec or upgraded ATF
Includes filter, pan clean, and live monitoring during test drive
Relearn procedure completed so the box doesn’t “hunt” or shift rough
Full Rebuilds Available
Is your Automatic Transmission Slipping? No drive? We’ll rebuild it right, using high-grade components clutch packs.
Matched to your use case: touring, towing, work, or play
Tuning Your Auto Box — When the Engine Isn’t the Problem
A lot of ute owners think their tuned engine isn’t running right — when in reality, the transmission tuning is holding them back.
With tools like HP Tuners, KESS3, and factory reflashing software, we can fine-tune the way your automatic shifts, responds, and locks the converter.
Transmission tuning benefits include:
Firmer, faster shifts under load.
Earlier torque converter lockup (to reduce heat).
Adjusted shift timing for towing or highway use.
Gear holding in manual mode.
Preventing unnecessary downshifts on hills.
We offer this as a standalone service or bundled with ECU tuning, turbo upgrades or injector mods.
Tailored Packages for Common Ute Platforms
We’ve developed proven transmission service and tuning solutions for:
Ford Ranger PX1/PX2/PX3 (6R80)
Known issues: torque converter slip, harsh 3-4 shift, overheating under tow
Our fix: HD converter upgrade, solenoid ID reprogramming, custom shift tuning, cooling inspection
Toyota HiLux N80 (A750F)
Known issues: shift flare, sluggish response post-tune, converter shudder
Our fix: Shift strategy reset, upgraded fluid, trans tuning with earlier lockup
Isuzu D-Max & Mazda BT-50 (Aisin box)
Known issues: delayed upshift, sluggish torque transfer under load
Our fix: Transmission tune + HD converter optional package
Mitsubishi Triton (5-speed & newer 6-speed)
Known issues: poor shift logic, flaring between gears, hunting on the highway
Our fix: Custom trans tune, adaptive reset + converter upgrade if needed
Automatic Transmission & More
Transmission control module (TCM) reprogramming.
Used transmission swaps with proper coding.
Transmission adaptation resets and relearns.
Clutch pack pressure testing via live data.
OEM & aftermarket support depending on budget.
Brisbane Tuning & Turbo Difference
Most workshops either avoid automatics or throw a second-hand replacement at every trans issue. We don’t do that. We take the time to diagnose it properly, repair or upgrade what actually needs doing, and tune the box to match your use case — not a factory preset from 2012.
Because if you’re a ute owner in QLD — towing, working, or just hammering it off-road — you deserve a transmission that doesn’t leave you wondering, “Is that normal?”
Book a Transmission Health Check or Diagnostic Today
Not sure what’s going on with your automatic transmission? We’ll tell you — with numbers, graphs, fluid temps, and test results to back it.
Call us today or book online for a Transmission Health Check + Dyno Diagnosis.
Let us build your transmission the way your ute actually works: loaded, tuned, and built for Queensland roads.
Typically, on a weekly basis, we have a couple of automatic transmission replacements or rebuilds in the workshop. Some customers prefer to rebuild others to replace with a second hand automatic transmission – it’s all about your budget and purposes.
