Santa Rosa's Top Transmission Maintenance Shop
Tristar Automotive has been providing expert transmission diagnostics, repairs, and replacements for drivers in Santa Rosa and across Sonoma County since 1991.
Why Choose Tristar Automotive for Transmission Service?
Our ASE-certified technicians use advanced diagnostic equipment to pinpoint transmission issues quickly. Whether it’s routine service or a complete rebuild, we deliver dependable results that extend the life of your vehicle. With oversight by the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR), you can trust us for quality and compliance.
Transmission Diagnostics
Your transmission is a highly complex system that combines mechanical components, hydraulic fluid, and electronic controls. When issues arise -such as rough shifting, slipping gears, or warning lights – it takes more than a visual inspection to uncover the problem. At Tristar Automotive, we use cutting-edge diagnostic equipment to evaluate sensors, solenoids, and the transmission control module. Our technicians check fluid condition, perform road tests, and analyze error codes to create a precise repair plan. By identifying problems early, we help drivers in Santa Rosa and Sonoma County avoid unnecessary breakdowns and costly replacements, ensuring their vehicles remain safe and reliable.
Transmission Service & Fluid Exchange
Routine transmission maintenance is one of the most effective ways to extend the life of your vehicle. Over time, transmission fluid can break down, become contaminated, or lose the additives needed to protect gears and clutches from wear. At Tristar Automotive, our service includes draining old fluid, replacing filters when needed, and refilling with manufacturer-recommended fluids. This process helps maintain proper lubrication, improves shifting performance, and prevents overheating. For drivers across Santa Rosa and the North Bay, keeping up with fluid exchange intervals provides long-term protection and helps avoid costly repairs down the road.
Transmission Repair & Rebuilds
Even with proper maintenance, transmissions can develop serious issues over time. Whether it’s a failed clutch pack, damaged torque converter, or worn-out bearings, our ASE-certified technicians have the training and experience to handle repairs of all sizes. In some cases, a full rebuild may be the most cost-effective option, especially for vehicles with high mileage. At Tristar Automotive, we carefully disassemble, inspect, and restore transmissions to factory specifications using quality components. Our goal is to return your car or truck to reliable operation while minimizing downtime. Customers in Santa Rosa and Sonoma County trust us for honest assessments, skilled workmanship, and lasting results.
Transmission & Drivetrain Services
- Transmission Service & Repair
- Transmission Replacement (new or rebuilt)
- Transmission Fluid & Filter Change
- Clutch Repair & Replacement
- Axle and Transaxle Replacement
- Differential Repair & Replacement
4.9verified by TrustindexTrustindex verifies that the company has a review score above 4.5, based on reviews collected on Google over the past 12 months, qualifying it to receive the Top Rated Certificate.
Other Auto Repair Services
Be sure to read more about how our Factory Scheduled Maintenance services can save you money. And, be sure to view our complete line-up of Automotive Repair and Services available at Tristar Automotive in Santa Rosa, CA!
Why Drivers in Santa Rosa & Sonoma County Trust Our Tune-Ups
With decades of transmission expertise and ASE certification, Tristar Automotive is trusted across Sonoma County and the North Bay for dependable repair and maintenance solutions. Our work is backed by transparency, professionalism, and a reputation built since 1991. Whether you’re driving a commuter car, work truck, or family SUV, we ensure your transmission gets the care it deserves.
Posted on Google![]()
craig alness4 October 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great service, quality work, reasonable prices. I bring my grandma's 1972 Chevelle in every year and trust this team to take good care of this very special car.Posted on Google![]()
K Beau29 September 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Wonderful experience all the way around. Did a diagnostic on my older Lexus and provided a detailed report of all its foibles and best way to proceed. From initial phone call to picking up car after, truly an exceptional experience. Thank you!!Posted on Google![]()
Michael Voight27 September 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Easy to tow in car. Called me and asked what the issue seemed to be and fixed the problem. They pushed an oil change and air filter change but was quite a bit overpriced. Over $300 for both. I understand they need to make money but be wary of that. Otherwise they did good and fast work.Posted on Google![]()
Pat Pointer18 September 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Had a great experience and felt well informed about my F-150 EcoBoost repair options for a coolant leak that caused the engine to overheat. I wasn’t feeling my best while facing the consequences of my truck requiring major repairs. The detailed estimate broke down every cost, from clips and hoses to labor, so there were no surprises. My questions were welcomed, and they took the time to explain what to expect. The staff and management were friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful. I especially appreciated the straightforward, low-pressure approach compared with some of my past dealership experiences. Highly recommend!Posted on Google![]()
shannon stegner11 September 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had to tow my vehicle into Tristar at 4pm the Friday before a holiday weekend. I was stranded in the side of the road and didn’t know who to call so, after a brief google search, I called Tristar. They let me know I’d could have my car towed over and it could stay over the long weekend but that they’d get back to me with an update as quickly as possible upon return from the holiday. As promised they did get back to me and let me know that the situation with my car was something that was actually covered by the maker of my vehicle via a class action lawsuit / extended warranty fix (my car is 1.5 yrs out of manufacture warranty). They told me to go ahead and make an appt with a local dealership and let me know exactly what to ask for re: this extended warranty. Additionally, they didn’t charge me for the diagnostic time it took them to identify the situation. I’m incredibly appreciative of their responsiveness and honesty in a moment that was very unexpected and stressful. They absolutely have my business from here out!Posted on Google![]()
Harold Duncan29 August 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Very efficient and professional work…Staff is very kind and friendly as well…l had a Smog check…Posted on Google![]()
James Fitzgerald22 August 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great service and communication, thank you Team TriStar! Reliable and always stand behind their work and dedication, delivered with kindness and customer satisfaction!Posted on Google![]()
julie berman19 August 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Left the dealership where I purchased my car and became a new customer of TriStar. They could not have been nicer, and their fees were very reasonable. Color me very pleased with my overall experience.Posted on Google![]()
H P Mechanical14 August 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We have used tri star for many years, for service for our service fleet. We have found them to be honest, fair, efficient and they always keep you in the loop of your repair.Posted on Google![]()
Mark Jones29 July 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
There good and fast!Posted on Google![]()
Stephen Riedel28 July 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I have had a couple recent repairs here including the catalytic converter and brake booster on my ‘98 Tacoma. I’ve been impressed by how responsive, timely, knowledgeable and professional the shop owners are! Thank you for all the high quality work you guys have done! It is much appreciated even though the issues have been unanticipated. It’s been a pricey last six months for me with all the vehicle repairs, but I’m trying to keep it running well for at least another 100K miles. 👍🏻 I hope I don’t have to come in anytime soon… :)Posted on Google![]()
MaryLou Herrera26 July 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I received good service. I felt comfortable and confident with the service I received.Posted on Google![]()
Diane Castro15 July 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
My first experience was great! Ken was professional and fast. I needed a new catalytic converter in my 2014 Kia so it could pass the smog test - Ken was communicative and friendly. I love that they have a company Uber account so I could be taken home after I dropped my car off.Posted on Google![]()
Chip Smith11 July 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Ken & Zac got me in quickly, diagnosed my issues, and got me back on the road tootsweet - pardon my french. (They even laughed at my corny jokes! Thanks, guys...😇) My problem turned out to be much less serious than I thought, and they were in contact with me the through the entire process. AND they got me a rideshare to and from! If you want a shop with friendly, reliable folks, you won't go wrong with TriStar!Posted on Google![]()
William Keim9 July 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
TriStar Automotive began with an oil change. Most recently I received more service to my car. It needed the attention and TriStar Automotive provided exceptional service. I would highly recommend TriStar to anyone looking for quality, honesty, and integrity.Posted on Yelp![]()
Theresa M.6 July 2026Verified
I needed to have my Exotic car's DMV exhaust certification renewed. The car is an 1988. I have quite a bit of angst when every two years the certification has to be renewed. I took the car to TRISTAR. They were WONDERFUL!! They felt my concern. The car passed with flying colors, twice at this time! The people who own/work at Tristar are master mechanics! They were kind enough to give me a referral for an excellent Exotic car repair shop. Since moving to Sonoma County eight years ago I have been in convulsions on where to take my car for engine repairs. Tristar's recommendation was another star on their rating. They should receive 10 stars!!!
Trusted Transmission Service in Santa Rosa & Sonoma County
Since 1991, Tristar Automotive has provided expert transmission care backed by certified technicians and compliance with the California Bureau of Automotive Repair.
For Professional Transmission Service in Santa Rosa & Sonoma County
Call (707) 571-8866
Increase the longevity of your vehicle with routine maintenance
Transmission Fluid Breaks Down
Transmission fluid is vital to the health of your car transmission. Considerable heat may build inside your transmission as the transmission fluid attempts to cool and lubricate friction points and moving parts while under various operating conditions. Small metal and fiber particles can also accumulate and result in accelerated wear and tear. Regular transmission flushing alleviates the effects of wear and tear.
Signs Of Transmission Issues
Help cut the cost of transmission service by taking care of small problems before they worsen. If you notice any of the following signs, schedule an appointment at your nearest Tires Plus for a service or repair before your transmission fails
- Transmission slips or vehicle does not move forward when accelerator pedal is depressed
- Rough shifts from gear to gear
- Thud or clunking noises when the transmission shifts gears
- Long pauses between shift points
- Transmission fluid leaking reddish fluid under vehicle
- Transmission warning light on your car or vehicle’s instrument cluster
How Often Is Transmission Service Required?
Always refer to your car owner’s manual for factory recommended maintenance intervals. The average vehicle needs to get a transmission fluid flush every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, with some manufacturers suggesting a service life of up to 100,000 miles. But, a lot will depend upon your driving habits and requirements, causing the fluid to break-down at an accelerated rate – requiring more frequent service intervals.
Our Customer Reviews
These are just a few reviews from our valued car service & repair customers throughout Sonoma County.
Posted on Google![]()
craig alness4 October 2026
Great service, quality work, reasonable prices. I bring my grandma's 1972 Chevelle in every year and trust this team to take good care of this very special car.Posted on Google![]()
K Beau29 September 2026
Wonderful experience all the way around. Did a diagnostic on my older Lexus and provided a detailed report of all its foibles and best way to proceed. From initial phone call to picking up car after, truly an exceptional experience. Thank you!!Posted on Google![]()
Michael Voight27 September 2026
Easy to tow in car. Called me and asked what the issue seemed to be and fixed the problem. They pushed an oil change and air filter change but was quite a bit overpriced. Over $300 for both. I understand they need to make money but be wary of that. Otherwise they did good and fast work.Posted on Google![]()
Pat Pointer18 September 2026
Had a great experience and felt well informed about my F-150 EcoBoost repair options for a coolant leak that caused the engine to overheat. I wasn’t feeling my best while facing the consequences of my truck requiring major repairs. The detailed estimate broke down every cost, from clips and hoses to labor, so there were no surprises. My questions were welcomed, and they took the time to explain what to expect. The staff and management were friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful. I especially appreciated the straightforward, low-pressure approach compared with some of my past dealership experiences. Highly recommend!Posted on Google![]()
shannon stegner11 September 2026
I had to tow my vehicle into Tristar at 4pm the Friday before a holiday weekend. I was stranded in the side of the road and didn’t know who to call so, after a brief google search, I called Tristar. They let me know I’d could have my car towed over and it could stay over the long weekend but that they’d get back to me with an update as quickly as possible upon return from the holiday. As promised they did get back to me and let me know that the situation with my car was something that was actually covered by the maker of my vehicle via a class action lawsuit / extended warranty fix (my car is 1.5 yrs out of manufacture warranty). They told me to go ahead and make an appt with a local dealership and let me know exactly what to ask for re: this extended warranty. Additionally, they didn’t charge me for the diagnostic time it took them to identify the situation. I’m incredibly appreciative of their responsiveness and honesty in a moment that was very unexpected and stressful. They absolutely have my business from here out!Posted on Google![]()
Harold Duncan29 August 2026
Very efficient and professional work…Staff is very kind and friendly as well…l had a Smog check…Posted on Google![]()
James Fitzgerald22 August 2026
Great service and communication, thank you Team TriStar! Reliable and always stand behind their work and dedication, delivered with kindness and customer satisfaction!Posted on Google![]()
julie berman19 August 2026
Left the dealership where I purchased my car and became a new customer of TriStar. They could not have been nicer, and their fees were very reasonable. Color me very pleased with my overall experience.Posted on Google![]()
H P Mechanical14 August 2026
We have used tri star for many years, for service for our service fleet. We have found them to be honest, fair, efficient and they always keep you in the loop of your repair.Posted on Google![]()
Mark Jones29 July 2026
There good and fast!Posted on Google![]()
Stephen Riedel28 July 2026
I have had a couple recent repairs here including the catalytic converter and brake booster on my ‘98 Tacoma. I’ve been impressed by how responsive, timely, knowledgeable and professional the shop owners are! Thank you for all the high quality work you guys have done! It is much appreciated even though the issues have been unanticipated. It’s been a pricey last six months for me with all the vehicle repairs, but I’m trying to keep it running well for at least another 100K miles. 👍🏻 I hope I don’t have to come in anytime soon… :)Posted on Google![]()
MaryLou Herrera26 July 2026
I received good service. I felt comfortable and confident with the service I received.