Transmission repairs can be expensive, depending on your car’s age and type. When your car completely breaks down, it’s sometimes impossible to avoid having a transmission repair specialist service it. However, you can take steps to prolong the lifespan of your automatic transmission and prevent transmission failure. Check out our top ten pieces of advice on maintaining a transmission from a transmission shop:
Periodically check the transmission fluid.
On many automobiles, light trucks, and SUVs, checking the transmission fluid is as simple as checking the oil: pull out the dipstick while the engine is running, clean it off, re-insert it, wait, and then draw it out to get an accurate reading. You can leak if the fluid level is low. The liquid must be clear, brilliant red, and have a pleasant aroma. Take it to a gearbox repair expert to see if it’s murky, black in colour, or smells like rotten fish.
Utilize the proper transmission fluid.
The owner’s manual for your car should always be consulted to determine what kind of transmission fluid to use. Ask a professional at a Mister Transmission if, after doing so, you’re still unsure.
Get the cooling system in your engine serviced.
The cooling system in your car works to keep the engine from overheating. However, did you know that it also ensures the transmission fluid’s cooling pumping through the gearbox? You’ll probably need a transmission repair before your engine overheats altogether. Make sure your cooling system is functioning at its best.
Frequently have your transmission flushed.
It’s advisable to leave changing your car’s transmission fluid to a technician. In general, have your car’s transmission flushed once a year. However, always refer to your owner’s manual. The amount of driving you to do and the vehicle’s operating temperature will determine how long the transmission fluid in your automobile lasts.
Avoid shifting gears while your vehicle is in motion.
Before switching from drive to reverse or vice versa, bring your car to a complete stop. Failure to do so strains your transmission, which can cause a severe issue over time.
Before you start driving, let your car warm up.
Who has climbed into the driver’s seat, fired up the engine, engaged the transmission, and sped off? Always give your engine a few minutes to warm up before you start driving, especially during the winter. (Full disclosure: I’m just as guilty as you are.)
Avoid using a spare tire while driving for an extended period.
It’s not a good idea to push for an extended period with a small spare tire or mismatched tire sizes. Not only will it harm the transmission over time, but it will also eventually harm other components of your car, such as the wheel alignment.
Replace the transmission filter regularly.
Yes, the automatic transmission in your car can have a filter that needs to be replaced now and then. The vehicle’s make and model determine whether it has a transmission filter. Most recent cars don’t have transmission filters, but the ones that need to be changed every time your transmission is flushed.
Refrain from towing your car.
When you use your automobile to carry big weights, especially in hot weather, the transmission may sustain significant damage due to the transmission fluid burning or oxidizing.
Wrapping up
Get your transmission checked once a year. It is wise preventative maintenance to have a trained transmission repair specialist inspect your transmission for leaks and other irregularities at least once a year and to routinely check the amount, colour, and smell of the transmission fluid.