9 Tips to Prolong Your Car’s Transmission Life

9 Tips to Keep Your Transmission Running Smoothly

1. Check the transmission fluid frequently. Low fluid levels or dirty transmission fluid is the number one cause of most transmission problems. The level of the fluid can cause your car to overheat. You should check the level at least once a month.

2. Service the transmission every 30,000 miles or two years, whichever comes first. This involves draining the old fluid, changing the filter, and cleaning the transmission pan. Everything is then put back together and new fluid is put into the car. This is the lowest-price preventive measure that you can take, whether you choose to leave it in the hands of a professional or do it yourself.

3. While you are changing the fluid, consider trying synthetic fluids. These newer fluids provide better performance and resist heat and cold better. Most car manufacturers now use this synthetic fluid, and the difference in price is not significant.

4. Add an external filter to the car. Even though the car is equipped with a filter, adding an external filter will trap more dirt and contaminants, which will prolong the life of your transmission.

5. Maintenance of the cooling system should be done every two years. Heat from your car’s engine is bad for the transmission. Maintenance should include changing the anti-freeze, looking for leaks and damage, changing of the hoses, and a radiator cap pressure test.

6. Drive your car easily on a cold start. The transmission does not warm up until after the first two to three miles.

7. If you tow equipment, do not exceed the recommendations made by the manufacturer. Loads over the limit strain the belt, which leads to the overheating of the transmission.

8. Use your emergency brake when parking on an incline.

9. Do not rest your hands on the gear lever while driving.

If the mechanic notices serious trouble with your transmission, you have two options. First, you can purchase a pre-manufactured transmission. This transmission will include major alterations and upgrades to the transmissions, making it more durable. It also probably comes with a better warranty. A pre-manufactured transmission will typically carry a three-year guarantee where a rebuilt transmission will carry a 90-day warranty. A rebuilt transmission will only replace parts that need fixing. It does not offer any upgrades.
The best thing to do if you find yourself with transmission trouble is to visit an auto transmission specialist. They know exactly how to help your auto transmission mechanism use every ounce of energy to its fullest, and they know the systems used on the different makes and models of cars. They will even tell you the best ways to keep your transmission working to its capacity.
As with any vehicle, cars need to be serviced regularly to keep them in top shape. With regular maintenance, your car should last well over the 100,000 miles without any problem. Your mechanic will work with you to develop a schedule so that your automobile should not experience any major mechanical problems.