Your transmission is one of the most vital systems in your vehicle. It’s what transmits the power produced by your engine to your wheels, telling them which direction to turn and at what speed. Here are six tips to keep your transmission in top shape for as long as possible.
Check The Transmission Fluid Regularly
Checking transmission fluid is just as easy as checking engine oil. If you need help locating the transmission dipstick under your hood, just check your car’s owner’s manual. As long as the fluid level is correct and the color is bright red, you’re good to go.
Have The Transmission Flushed Regularly
It’s recommended to have your transmission flushed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. While simply changing out the transmission fluid is great, a change only replaces the old fluid in your pan. A transmission flush replaces practically all the dirty fluid throughout your transmission system.
Allow The Engine To Warm Up
When you first start your vehicle, allow the engine a minute or so to warm up before you drive away. This is especially important during cold weather. Allowing your car to warm ensures that the fluid can flow easily throughout the transmission system, keeping everything lubricated and running smoothly.
Stop Fully Before Shifting From Reverse
While some cars may technically allow you to shift from reverse to drive if traveling at a low speed, that shift can still damage your transmission. At that low speed, transmission fluid should absorb most of the shock in the system, but you still risk wearing out your transmission much faster.
Don’t Ride The Brake
Avoid driving with your foot on the brake pedal. This wears out your brake pads and forces your transmission to unnecessarily work harder to move your car. The constant brake lights will also confuse drivers around you. If you find yourself needing to brake a lot while driving down a steep hill, be sure to shift into low gear to save wear on your car.
Have An Annual Inspection
As a part of your routine maintenance, have your vehicle professionally inspected at least once a year. A trained technician will check your transmission for any leaks and inspect your transmission fluid for any abnormalities so that you can catch any issues before they cause large-scale damage.
Whether you need regular maintenance or transmission repairs, the team at Sunny Automotive is here for you. Our certified techs will diagnose any issues, provide excellent service, and get you back on the road in a flash. Schedule your next appointment today!