Your vehicle's automatic transmission is responsible for moving power from your vehicle's engine to its wheels. Proper care should be taken to prevent the transmission from breaking prematurely. A transmission overhaul or replacement can be costly, often exceeding the value of a vehicle, especially if you own a vehicle that is older and that has a lot of miles on it.
Always Shift Properly And Avoid Switching Gears Rapidly
Before switching from park into drive or reverse, your foot should be on the brake and your car should be at a complete stop. Rushing to switch gears can cause parts of the transmission to grind. You may even hear a loud noise if this occurs.
The spinning coupling mechanism that is part of the transmission may fail to operate with continue misuse of the gears. Always obey the speed limit and refrain from racing your friends or partaking in other reckless behavior that could not only damage your car, but could result in you becoming injured if you are involved in a vehicular accident.
Check The Transmission Fluid And Have It Changed As Needed
If you aren't educated when it comes to looking under your vehicle's hood, you should take the time to learn where the transmission fluid dipstick is located. Transmission fluid provides lubrication and heat control and should be checked whenever you refuel your vehicle. Unlike checking the oil, you will need to leave your vehicle running when you check the fluid.
Swiftly pull upward on the transmission fluid dipstick and look at the stick. The indicator on the stick will mark the 'safe' level where the transmission fluid should appear. The fluid will be brownish or reddish in color. If you notice that the fluid is darker than normal, have the fluid changed at a transmission shop.
Avoid Towing Heavy Loads If Possible
Towing heavy loads can have a serious impact on your vehicle's transmission, especially if you own a compact or mid-sized vehicle or have no towing experience.
If you own a truck or larger vehicle that has a towing hitch attached to it and you need to move a large item with your vehicle, avoid placing your vehicle in overdrive for long durations, since this can have a negative impact on the transmission. Travel in short stints and attempt to drive at a slow, constant speed. Avoid driving up steep inclines, which could cause your transmission to overwork, resulting in damage.
