Prolonging the life of your transmission, depending on your car’s make and age, can save you hundreds to thousands of dollars. Preventing transmission failure should be at the top of your priority list, so we’ve put together a list of useful tips to help get the most out of your transmission. If your transmission does finally break down, give us a call at (901) 633-1891 so you can figure out the best and most cost-efficient solution for all of your transmission rebuilding needs.
- Inspect your Transmission Annually
Have a reputable car shop inspect your transmission annually. A quick diagnostic can check your transmission for abnormalities and leaks. A technician will also check your transmission fluid’s color, level, and smell as part of preventative maintenance.
- Avoid Towing if Possible
If you own a truck and regularly tow other vehicles or equipment, we get it. However, if your car is not built for towing and you regularly tow heavy loads – especially in hot temperatures – it can cause the transmission fluid to burn or oxidize, causing damage to the transmission.
- Change the Filter
Check to see if your car’s automatic transmission has a filter and if it needs to be changed from time to time. Depending on the make and model, the car may or may not have a filter. Newer vehicles may not have a filter; however, getting your transmission checked regularly is always a safe bet.
- Don’t Drive on Spares
If stuff happens, then stuff happens. Sometimes a tire pops due to a nail in the road or wear and tear; however, driving on a spare for an extended period of time is not recommended. Mismatched tire sizes will mess with the wheel alignment and put an unnecessary strain on your transmission.
- Use Care While Changing Gears
For an automatic transmission, make sure your car is always completely stopped before shifting from reverse to park etc. Failure to do so can hurt the transmission and the gearbox.
- Regular Transmission Flushes
Leave the flushing to a professional. Generally speaking, most cars recommend a flush once a year depending on the vehicle’s operating temperature and how much driving you do per year.
- Service the Engine Cooling System
A tip-top cooling system prevents the engine from overheating. It also helps cool the transmission fluid that is pumped through the gearbox. Keeping your cooling system in the best shape possible will make sure no unneeded damage is done to the engine or transmission.
- Transmission Fluid
Use the right transmission fluid. If you’re not sure, ask a professional. Enough said.
- Always Check Your Transmission Fluid
You should be checking the transmission fluid as often as you check the oil. Idle your engine, then check the dipstick after wiping it off. If the level reads low, then you may have a leak.
- Let Your Car Warm Up
During the cold winter months, allow a few minutes for your car to warm up before putting it into drive.
Transmission Repairs
If your transmission is in disrepair, call High Gear Transmission for all of your standard shift transmission rebuilding needs. We have over 3 decades of remanufacturing experience and have helped thousands of people get their cars running again at an affordable price.
