(408) 782-4909

Contact
COMPANY REPORT NAVIGATION

(408) 782-4909

Contact
COMPANY REPORT NAVIGATION
Diamond Certified Company Report

B & J Transmissions

(408) 782-4909

Contact
Diamond Certified Company Report

B & J Transmissions

(408) 782-4909

Contact
Diamond certified ratings dashboard
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION i
Customer LOYALTY i
Helpful Expertise i
Company Credentials i
  • Workers Compensation
  • Liability Insurance
  • License Verification
  • Business Practices
  • Current Complaint File
Phone SURVEY RESPONSES FROM 300 VERIFIED CUSTOMERS i

Jack L.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

1 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

I'd recommend them. They know what they're doing.

I would say the amount of information they provide during the service was the best. It's expensive work that takes some time. They remove the transmission, dismantle it, and take it apart. During that time, they sent pictures of the internal parts that were being replaced, which was helpful.

Jeff N.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

2 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Don't bother phoning or going anywhere else.

They did an excellent job on the rebuild of the transmission. The torque convertor failed one month out of the warranty, and they took it in and fixed it at no cost.

Joe V.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

3 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They were able to solve a problem that the dealership couldn't, and they showed me what they did, which was very thoughtful. They fixed a very important part of the car.

They are efficient, and they are honest.
Read All 300 Survey Responses at Ratings View
Diamond certified VIDEO PROFILE
Diamond certified company PROFILE

B & J Transmissions is a San Jose-based repair shop that fixes automatic and manual transmissions for motorists in Santa Clara County. Other transmission-based services include electrical diagnosis, manual clutch service and repair, band adjustments, and fluid exchange. The company also offers general auto repair and care—automatic flywheel replacement, manual flywheel resurfacing, differential service and CV axle replacement—and works on fuel, cooling, heating, and brake systems.

Owner Ben Villafaña has worked in the auto industry for more than 40 years, and he has spent the majority of that time mastering transmission repair/ rebuilding skills. B & J Transmissions is affiliated with the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association (ATRA), an international trade association for the professional transmission repair industry. As an ATRA member, the shop adheres to the organization’s strict bylaws and code of ethics.

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Diamond Certified Companies are Rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise.

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DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESEARCHED CAPABILITIES ON B & J Transmissions

COMPANY CONTACT
Locations

Santa Clara County

Get Directions
SERVICES PERFORMED

Axles
Clutches
Differentials
Transfer Cases
Transmissions
Domestic and Foreign

DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESEARCHED ARTICLES ON B & J Transmissions

A look at B & J Transmission’s service area

Company Profile

B & J Transmissions is a San Jose-based repair shop that fixes automatic and manual transmissions for motorists in Santa Clara County. Other transmission-based services include electrical diagnosis, manual clutch service and repair, band adjustments, and fluid exchange. The company also offers general auto repair and care—automatic flywheel replacement, manual flywheel resurfacing, differential service and CV axle replacement—and works on fuel, cooling, heating, and brake systems.

Owner Ben Villafaña has worked in the auto industry for more than 40 years, and he has spent the majority of that time mastering transmission repair/ rebuilding skills. B & J Transmissions is affiliated with the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association (ATRA), an international trade association for the professional transmission repair industry. As an ATRA member, the shop adheres to the organization’s strict bylaws and code of ethics.

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Company Philosophy

“We believe the only way to do a job is to do it right the first time. From our quality of workmanship to our attention to detail, we treat each customer’s car as carefully as we would our own. Our family-owned and operated business always gives every customer honest, fair, high-quality service. We promise we won’t remove a transmission unless it’s absolutely necessary.”

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Comparative Summary

B & J Transmissions has been replacing and rebuilding transmissions for all types of automobiles at its San Jose facility since 1990. While the shop is qualified to perform general automobile repairs, it focuses on transmissions and strives to build a high-level of expertise in a complex subset of automotive repair. “Transmissions are the most difficult aspect of auto repair,” confirms owner Ben Villafaña. “By specializing in them, we ensure we get the job done right every time.”

To ease the anxiety some customers feel about transmission repairs, B & J Transmissions offers free inspections and road tests that are designed to diagnose any potential transmission problems. If a problem is found, it can usually be solved by replacing fluid or performing other minor services. “We never remove a transmission unless we absolutely have to,” says Mr. Villafaña.

B & J Transmissions’ technicians are trained by the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association (ATRA) and Automatic Transmission Service Group (ATSG), two industry leaders in transmission repair training and best practices. “Our technicians attend seminars at least twice a year to keep current on the latest technologies and methods,” says Mr. Villafaña. “In addition, I personally check every vehicle before it leaves the shop.”

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Industry Info

Costly transmission repairs can be avoided by taking simple, preventive measures. Ben Villafaña, owner of B & J Transmissions in San Jose, recommends following these tips for keeping your car’s transmission functioning to its highest potential.

Regularly check the fluid level. Few things are more important than a proper fluid level for keeping the transmission working correctly. Checking the level is easy; most cars have a dipstick for that exact purpose, and your owner’s manual will show you where it is and how to read it.

Promptly check transmission problems. Most transmission problems start out small and get worse over time. Get your transmission checked right away when you notice a warning light on the dash, see a few drops of fluid on the garage floor, or feel a change in the way the transmission operates. Preventive measures can save you major repairs and a lot of money.

Regularly service your transmission. Follow your manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, and get a complete fluid and filter change every year. It can add years to your transmission’s life.

Add a friction modifier to the fluid. There are a number of additives on the market that will significantly increase the life and reliability of your transmission. The best additives aren’t found in auto supply stores, so ask about friction modifiers when you’re having your transmission fluid changed.

Install an auxiliary cooler. The biggest reason for transmission failure is heat. At high temperatures, transmission seals begin to harden, clutches begin to burn and fluid breaks down. If your vehicle tows trailers, carries heavy loads, or operates on rough or mountainous terrain, an auxiliary cooler may help keep its transmission working properly.

Install a cooler line filter. Particles of dirt and metal can quickly erode thrust washer and bushing surfaces, clog up passages and reduce transmission life. The standard filters that eliminate these particles vary in effectiveness. One of the best ways to eliminate contaminants is to add an in-line filter to the transmission cooler lines. These filters are inexpensive and highly effective.

Service the cooling system. Your car’s cooling system cools the transmission fluid as well as the engine. A faulty cooling system can simultaneously damage the engine and reduce transmission life. In fact, transmission damage may occur long before the engine overheats.

Tune the engine. Engine problems put strain on the transmission, and a properly running engine helps a transmission last longer.

Help the transmission shift. Virtually all automatic transmission wear takes place during shifting. One way to decrease transmission wear is to reduce the load during the shift. Pay attention to your speed when the transmission shifts normally. Easing off the gas when you reach that speed will force the shift while reducing the load on the clutches.

Take your car to a transmission specialist. Regular service by a qualified specialist will extend the life of the transmission. General repair facilities usually don’t have the expertise to diagnose potential transmission problems early, before major repairs are required.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can you give an estimate over the phone?

A: No. Transmission problems can be difficult to diagnose, and we really need to look at the car before we can offer a reliable estimate. We offer free inspections and road tests, during which we’ll take a detailed look at your transmission and diagnose any problems. Think of it as a complimentary check-up for your transmission.

Q: How long does it take to complete a transmission job?

A: Generally around two to three working days.

Q: How long does it take to diagnose a transmission problem?

A: The inspection takes about an hour, but we schedule half a day for it.

Q: Do you handle trucks and RVs?

A: We handle all kinds of automobiles and light trucks. Our facility isn’t large enough to handle big, commercial trucks or RVs, though.

Q: Do you offer towing and shuttle services?

A: Yes. We provide towing for major repairs and can give you a ride throughout the San Jose area.

Q: How often should I have my transmission checked?

A: Consult your owner’s manual for the recommended maintenance schedule, but additional preventive maintenance is always important for extending your transmission’s life. We recommend an annual check of your vehicle’s transmission to catch little problems before they become big ones.

Q: How often should I change my transmission fluid?

A: Most automobile manufacturers recommend you change your transmission fluid every three years or 36,000 miles (consult your owner’s manual), but we recommend an annual fluid change. If your vehicle is older or is used for towing, fluid changes may be required more frequently. Our free inspection can determine if your fluid needs to be changed.

Q: What does it mean when my check engine, transmission or overdrive light comes on or flashes?

A: It means a malfunction has occurred in your engine or transmission. Don’t ignore these warnings. Early diagnosis by a qualified technician with proper equipment can save you money and prevent you from being stranded. We have the equipment and trained personnel to diagnose exactly what’s wrong.

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SELECTED PHOTOS FROM B & J Transmissions

  • B & J Transmissions

  • A look at B & J Transmission’s service area

  • B & J Transmissions‰Ûª technicians are trained in all aspects of transmission repair.

  • A B & J Transmissions technician works on a customer‰Ûªs car

  • B & J Transmissions

  • B & J Transmissions

  • B & J Transmissions

  • B & J Transmissions

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DIAMOND CERTIFIED EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR ADVICE & TIPS FROM Alex Nunez

Expert CONTRIBUTOR PROFILE

  • Alex Nunez is a veteran of the auto repair industry and manager of B & J Transmissions, a Diamond Certified company since 2003. He can be reached at (408) 782-4909 or by email.

Alex Nunez: A Family Transmission

By James Florence, Senior Writer

SAN JOSE — A third-generation auto repair professional, Alex Nunez says there was never any question of where his career path would lead. “Basically, automotive work is all I’ve ever known and the only vocation I’ve ever considered pursuing,” he affirms. “Starting with my great uncle, all of my family has worked in the automotive field, including my uncles and my brother. I started working at B & J Transmissions for my uncle when I was 18, and more than 20 years later, I’m still here.”
Today, as manager of B & J Transmissions, Alex says he enjoys the perpetual sense of novelty his job brings. “When you work on transmissions, there’s something new every day. Since there are so many different kinds of transmissions, you never really finish learning, and there are always new challenges and problems to solve, which keeps things interesting.”
Originally from Los Angeles, Alex moved to San Jose at age 19, where he continues to live with his wife, Jeanette, and their daughter. “Despite being a large city, San Jose is smaller and more slow-paced than L.A.,” he says. “To me, it feels more like a community. I really like the people here.”
Outside of work, Alex’s favorite activity is spending time at the beach with his family. “We love going to the beach and being in the water,” he affirms. “We’ve actually traveled to different beaches around Mexico and the United States. I enjoy just about any kind of water-related activity, whether swimming, boating or jet skiing.”
In regard to a professional philosophy, Alex believes in the importance of customer education. “A lot of shops take advantage of people who don’t know anything about cars, which is why I make it a point to educate my customers,” he says. “I explain what a transmission does, how it works, and what parts and maintenance services are needed to keep it running optimally. I find that explaining things to customers helps develop a sense of trust, which is a very valuable asset for any business.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Alex says he’d take a vacation. “I’m too young to retire, so I haven’t given it much thought. I suppose I’d like to do some more traveling. Maybe I’d check out some famous beaches around the world.”
Ask Me Anything!

Q: Coffee or tea?
A: Coffee.

Q: What’s your favorite sports team?
A: The Los Angeles Lakers.

Q: Where would you rather live: the city or the country?
A: The city. I like the country, too, but I like the convenience of the city—everything is close and there’s a lot to do.

Q: What was your first car?
A: A red Mustang.

Q: What’s your dream car?
A: A ’68 Camaro Super Sport.

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Expert articles
  • How to Check Your Transmission Fluid

    by Alex Nunez of
    B & J Transmissions

    SAN JOSE — Most drivers know to keep an eye on their engine oil, but not everyone is so diligent about checking their transmission fluid. However, due to the important role a transmission plays in vehicle operation (as well as the substantial expense of repairing it), you should make a point of checking yours regularly.

    Checking your transmission fluid involves the same steps as checking your engine oil: Just pull out the red dipstick (as opposed to the yellow one for engine oil) and inspect it. Most importantly, check the fluid’s integrity. Transmission fluid should have a clean, pink color and a semi-sweet aroma. If it looks dirty or smells burnt, you’re past due for a change, in which case you should schedule a service appointment with your auto technician as soon as possible.

    In addition to independently checking your transmission fluid, have your transmission professionally serviced at regular intervals. Ideally, you should get a complete fluid and filter change every 40,000 miles. This simple step will add years to your transmission’s life and prevent costly damage.

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Expert video tip

  • Video: Checking Your Transmission Fluid

    with Alex Nunez of
    B & J Transmissions

    Complete Video Transcription:

    SAN JOSE — Host, Sarah Rutan: Most car owners know to keep an eye on their engine oil, but few realize the importance of checking their transmission fluid. Today we’re in San Jose with Diamond Certified Expert Contributor Alex Nunez of B & J Transmissions to learn more.

    Diamond Certified Expert Contributor, Alex Nunez: One of our recommendations at B&J Transmissions is to check your transmission fluid. A lot of people tend to forget to check their transmission fluid and they only focus on their engine oil. But the transmission fluid should be checked at least every other oil change. Another recommendation is to service your transmission. A routine checkup on your transmission every 40,000 miles is great to keep your transmission going.

    Host, Sarah Rutan: To learn more from local, top rated companies, visit our Diamond Certified Expert Reports at experts.diamondcertified.org.

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COMPANY WEBSITE
http://www.bjtransmissions.com
Diamond Certified RATINGS ON B & J Transmissions
Diamond certified ratings dashboard
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION i
Customer LOYALTY i
Helpful Expertise i

Each surveyed customer was asked, “If you needed any helpful expertise, did this company provide that expertise?” To calculate this score, total “Yes” responses were divided by total responses (excluding those that stated they hadn’t needed any expertise).

Company Credentials i
  • Workers Compensation
  • Liability Insurance
  • License Verification
  • Business Practices
  • Current Complaint File
Phone SURVEY RESPONSES FROM 300 VERIFIED CUSTOMERS i
B & J Transmissions : Average 9.1 out of 10 based on 300 unique customer surveys of customer satisfaction.

Jack L.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

1 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

I'd recommend them. They know what they're doing.

I would say the amount of information they provide during the service was the best. It's expensive work that takes some time. They remove the transmission, dismantle it, and take it apart. During that time, they sent pictures of the internal parts that were being replaced, which was helpful.

Jeff N.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

2 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Don't bother phoning or going anywhere else.

They did an excellent job on the rebuild of the transmission. The torque convertor failed one month out of the warranty, and they took it in and fixed it at no cost.

Joe V.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

3 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They were able to solve a problem that the dealership couldn't, and they showed me what they did, which was very thoughtful. They fixed a very important part of the car.

They are efficient, and they are honest.

Ramiro C.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

4 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They were very helpful. Before I asked the questions, he already had the answers. I have recommended them to a couple of guys, already told them to go to them. I had a bad experience at another place for a different car, which took two weeks and cost a lot more for a used transmission. These guys only took 4 days and it's running great.

They are open and showed me all the problems and how to fix them. They even asked me what I wanted to do. They gave me the estimate on paper and explained everything really good.

Robert E.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

5 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They have fair prices and good at what they do. We referred a friend and they are close to where I live.

Their turnaround time

Stephanie B.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

6 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They are extremely helpful and don't sell you things you don't need. They are honest. I use them and so does my brother.

It's a family feel and I like that.

Kraig S.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

7 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They are professional.

I like Alex.

Wendy S.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

8 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They are pretty fair. It sucks that they don't work on weekends, but still got the job done right. I would recommend them.

They are very friendly. I really like their service and they keep me up to date and how much longer my vehicle will take and how much they will keep my vehicle.

Sean T.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

9 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They know what they are doing.

They know what they are doing. That's it.

Gabino A.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

10 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

He is a good mechanic and did a good job.

They did a good job and treat people right. They explain everything and I like that.

Jose M.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

11 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They are honest and do good work.

Everything they told me was on point, the timing, prices, everything they told me, nothing changed.

Jared L.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

12 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

I'd take all your cars there.

Customer service

Alejandro G.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

13 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Really professional, I only take my vehicle to them. They're really good mechanics.

The timeframe, they always stay in the timeframe, it's firm.

Santiago M.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

14 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

I would like to tell them to go there. They do a great job and good service.

What I liked most, is how they treat me. They're honest. When I go there, they do not make me feel bad. They give me great customer service each time.

Guirjit G.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

15 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They're helpful and honest.

They were straightforward and don't rip you on money.

Ivan G.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

16 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They're professional with whatever they do, usually they do a good job.

Honesty

Gerardo C.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

17 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

I send my friends for transmissions. I have been going there for 15 years.

They check the car and tell the person what's wrong, and what needs to be done. The owner checks the cars and they're honest.

Roberto P.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

18 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Always recommend them, they always attend to me.

Always happy with service, I have been going to them for a long time.

Shane H.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

19 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Very informative, and they showed me where the problem was with the transmission. It was good. If you need a transmission, their work is really good.

I believe the owner's nephew took the time to talk to me, and reassure me that the job will be done right, and I could come back if anything was wrong. It didn't feel like someone is trying to cheat me out of money.

Leonor M.

VERIFIED B & J Transmissions CUSTOMER

20 of 300

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

When someone has a problem with their car, I recommend them. They do a good job. The employees are great.

Transmission, satisfied with the work.
Read All 300 Survey Responses at Ratings View