Tips for Maintaining Your Car’s Transmission

What happens if you neglect your transmission system? Its condition directly affects how well your car performs. As your vehicle accumulates more miles, the risk of transmission failure increases. So, what should you be doing to keep it running smoothly?

Common Sources of Stress

Your transmission is under constant pressure from various factors. One major stressor is heat—especially when driving uphill. If your car struggles or hesitates, try manually downshifting to increase engine RPMs. If you notice gears slipping or shifting roughly, it’s time for a professional inspection.

Another source of stress is frequent braking. In heavy traffic or city driving, this can put extra strain on your transmission. To reduce that pressure, use your parking brake whenever you park on an incline or decline. This helps protect the parking mechanism and keeps everything in better shape over time.

Transmission Fluid Maintenance

If you take your car to a reputable auto shop, they’ll likely ask about your transmission fluid. For automatic vehicles, it’s generally recommended to change the fluid every 15,000 miles. But don’t wait until the last minute—checking it yourself before the 15,000-mile mark can help catch issues early.

Look at the dipstick for signs of wear. Dark, burnt-colored fluid could mean overheating or internal damage. Also, check for leaks around the transmission pan or lines. Any unusual smell or color change should be taken seriously.

At your service appointment, you might be asked whether you want a fluid drain or a full flush. Here’s the difference:

• Drain and Fill: This is the standard fluid change. A technician will remove the old fluid and replace it with new, clean fluid. Over time, sludge and debris can build up, so regular draining is important for performance.
• Flush: A transmission flush removes built-up sediment and old fluid from the entire system. However, it’s not necessary as often as a simple drain. Most experts recommend it only every 50,000 to 100,000 miles unless there are specific issues.

Maintenance Tips for Manual Transmissions

Manual transmissions are typically simpler to maintain than automatic ones. They have fewer moving parts, which means less chance of breakdowns over time. That said, regular fluid changes are still essential—every 15,000 miles or as specified in your owner’s manual.

Because of their simplicity, manual transmissions usually require less frequent and less expensive repairs. If you drive a manual car, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and stay on top of routine maintenance.

No matter what type of transmission you have, staying proactive with care can save you money and headaches in the long run. Whether you need a basic fluid change or a full transmission service, DaSilva’s Auto Body is here to help. Give us a call today to schedule your next appointment and keep your car running like new.

Cold Drawn Square Bar

Cold drawn square bar, square bar, carbon steel square bar, CK45 square bar

Changzhou Chengxin Metal Products Co., Ltd , https://www.chengxinsteeltube.com