Hirst Transmission Specialists

Serving Our Community Since 1996

Services We Offer

  • Automatic Transmission Repair
  • Manual Transmission Repair
  • Transmission Maintenance
  • Transmission Rebuilding
  • Transmission Replacement
  • Transmission Diagnostics
  • Clutch Repair
  • Axle Repair Services
  • CV Joint Repair
  • Free Transmission Cost Estimates
  • 2 Year Nationwide Warranty
  • Same Day Service Available

Transmission Repair & Rebuilding, Transmission Replacement and Clutch & Axle Services in Pensacola, FL and the Surrounding Areas

More than 50 years of transmission repair and rebuilding experience.

New and rebuilt transmission replacement for all makes and models.

We handle clutch and axle repairs for foreign and domestic vehicles.

Services We Offer

  • Automatic Transmission Repair
  • Manual Transmission Repair
  • Transmission Maintenance
  • Transmission Rebuilding
  • Transmission Replacement
  • Transmission Diagnostics
  • Clutch Repair
  • Axle Repair Services
  • CV Joint Repair
  • Free Transmission Cost Estimates
  • 2 Year Nationwide Warranty
  • Same Day Service Available

Since 1996, Hirst Transmission Specialists has been providing expert transmission repair, transmission maintenance and transmission rebuilding in Pensacola, FL for all makes and models of cars, trucks and SUVs.

With an owner that has more than 50 years of experience, we are confident in our team's ability to provide your vehicle with the services it requires to keep it shifting smoothly. Whether you drive a fine European luxury car, a reliable Asian SUV, or a domestic workhorse, we have the skills, knowledge and tools to service it. At our local transmission shop, we conduct everything from factory transmission maintenance procedures to complete transmission rebuilding or transmission replacement. No job is too big or too small for our auto mechanics. Give us a call or stop by to receive a free vehicle check or to schedule more extensive transmission services. We'll let you know if your car needs axle repair, clutch repair or transmission repair in Pensacola.

As a locally owned and operated business, the crew at Hirst Transmission Specialists takes great pride in helping our friends and neighbors in Pensacola, Bellview and the neighboring Florida towns. We aim to build lasting relationships with our customers in the community by providing high quality service at affordable prices. As a part of our efforts, our team continuously undergoes training so we can service the newest models on the road. We've also invested in the latest transmission diagnostic and repair technology that we combine with our decades of experience to deliver superior services. For peace of mind, our Pensacola transmission shop backs our labor with a two year warranty! If your car is making odd noises while shifting, leaking transmission fluid, or is due for transmission maintenance in Pensacola, don't hesitate to call Hirst Transmission Specialists at (850) 478-3395. Remember, if you're stuck in first, come to Hirst!

Hirst Transmission Specialists Blog

4 Tips for Maintaining Your Automatic Transmission’s Long-Term Health

by Hirst Transmission Specialists • 16 October 2025
A healthy automatic transmission plays a crucial role in enabling smooth acceleration, efficient power transfer, and overall driving comfort. Because it’s such a complex component, transmission repairs can become rather costly. The good news is that with regular care and attention, you can extend your transmission’s lifespan. Here are four tips for keeping your automatic transmission in excellent condition for the long haul. Keep Up with Regular Fluid Changes Transmission fluid is the lifeblood of your system, keeping components lubricated, cool, and functioning smoothly. Over time, this fluid can break down or become contaminated. When that happens, it can’t protect the transmission as effectively, leading to overheating and premature wear. Follow your manufacturer’s recommendations for fluid changes and check levels regularly to ensure your transmission is always operating with clean, high-quality fluid. Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle Excessive weight places added strain on your transmission. Whether you’re hauling heavy cargo or towing a trailer, that extra stress forces the transmission to work harder than it should. Over time, this can cause the fluid to overheat and the internal parts to wear out more quickly. Pay Attention to Warning Signs of Trouble Your car often gives early warnings when something is wrong with the transmission. Slipping gears, delayed engagement, rough shifting, or strange noises like whining or clunking should never be ignored. The sooner you have these symptoms diagnosed by a mechanic, the better your chances of preventing major damage. Have the System Inspected Regularly Even if everything seems fine, it’s wise to have your transmission inspected during routine maintenance visits. A technician can check for leaks, inspect seals, and ensure the fluid is in good condition. Professional inspections can catch minor issues—like small leaks or worn gaskets—before they develop into costly problems. Transmission Service in Pensacola, FL When you need transmission service in Pensacola and the surrounding area, contact Hirst Transmission Specialists at (850) 478-3395. At our local transmission shop, we’ll make sure your automatic transmission is capable of shifting smoothly and reliably. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

What are the common indications of contaminated transmission fluid?

by Hirst Transmission Specialists • 12 September 2025
Clean transmission fluid plays an essential role in keeping the transmission system running smoothly. It lubricates moving parts, cools the system, and ensures gears shift correctly. Over time, however, transmission fluid can become contaminated with debris, dirt, or metal shavings. When that happens, the transmission may begin to show warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored. Driving with contaminated fluid can lead to expensive problems. At Hirst Transmission Specialists, we can expertly handle your transmission fluid issues. Here are five indications that your transmission fluid may be contaminated. Dark or Dirty Fluid Fresh transmission fluid is typically bright red. As it becomes contaminated, it turns darker, often appearing brown or even blackish. If you check the fluid and notice it looks dirty or smells burnt, that’s a strong indication that it’s no longer protecting the transmission effectively. Dirty fluid means contaminants are circulating through the system, wearing down internal parts. Slipping Gears One of the most noticeable symptoms of contaminated transmission fluid is gear slipping. When the fluid loses its ability to provide proper lubrication and pressure, the transmission may struggle to stay in gear. You might feel the vehicle suddenly change gears on its own, hesitate when accelerating, or fail to engage properly. Delayed or Rough Shifting If your transmission fluid is contaminated, gear changes may not feel as smooth as they should. You might notice delays when shifting into drive or reverse, or the gears may clunk and jerk instead of transitioning seamlessly. Contaminated fluid prevents the hydraulic system from operating correctly, which can make gear changes harsh. Overheating Transmission Contaminated transmission fluid loses its ability to cool the transmission system effectively. Without proper cooling, the transmission can overheat, leading to significant internal damage. A distinct burning smell is a common sign of transmission overheating. Once a transmission overheats, repairs quickly become costly, making it crucial to address the fluid issue right away. Unusual Noises While Driving Grinding, whining, or clunking sounds can potentially be traced back to fluid that’s no longer clean and effective. These noises often get worse the longer you drive, signaling that the system is struggling under the strain of inadequate lubrication. Transmission Service in Pensacola, FL When you need transmission service in Pensacola and the surrounding area, contact Hirst Transmission Specialists at (850) 478-3395. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
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