Top 3 Things You Can Do for Your Transmission Health

Watch Your Driving Habits

One of the simplest ways to help extend the life of your car is to pay attention to how you drive. Believe it or not, your driving habits have a huge impact on how much wear is put on essential systems of your car, from your brakes to your engine and transmission. To help keep your transmission healthy, pay extra attention to how and when you shift gears, as well as how often you tow heavy loads.

Driving

Shifting Gears While Moving Adds Wear on Your Transmission

When changing from either drive or first into reverse, you’ll prevent a lot of extra wear on your transmission by bringing your car to a full stop before changing gears. Shifting into reverse can be the hardest on your clutch and transmission but trying to do so while the car is still in motion only adds to that strain and wear. So next time you’re frustrated by someone taking their time-shifting back into drive and moving forward after backing out of a parking spot you want, instead thank them for taking extra care of their transmission.

Limit How Often You Tow Heavy Loads or Plow with Your Vehicle

Some heavier vehicles are designed for towing heavy loads or plowing snow, so their transmission will be built to accommodate more of it. No matter what type of vehicle you drive, you need to pay attention to manufacturer recommendations for towing weights. And keep in mind, if you drive a car, light truck, or SUV the less often you tow heavy loads, the happier your transmission will be. Plowing or towing heavy loads places strain on your engine and transmission which causes heat to build-up. At excessive operating temperatures, your transmission fluid may begin to oxidize or burn, which can lead to damage inside your transmission. If you plan to regularly use your vehicle to plow or tow heavy loads like boats or trailers, consider speaking with a certified technician about installing a transmission cooler. Transmission coolers are designed to help prevent excessive heat build-up and provide additional protection for your drivetrain.

More Than Just Transmission Repairs

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Keep Up with Cooling System Maintenance

You may not expect it but regular cooling system maintenance will also help keep both your engine and transmission operating their best. Getting regular tune-ups, seasonal inspections, and having your coolant replaced will ensure your car’s cooling system can do its job well.

The Cooling System Helps Maintain Both the Engine and Transmission

Your cooling system’s job is to maintain proper temperature in both the engine and transmission. It does this by cycling coolant through the engine and radiator, where it absorbs the heat then is cooled respectively. With use, your coolant becomes dirty and is less able to carry out its function, which risks your engine and transmission overheating. One of the quickest ways to cause severe damage to your engine and transmission is to let them overheat.

Radiator coolant

Don’t Skip Regular Transmission Maintenance

There are also regular maintenance services directly related to your transmission that should not be skipped. Take a look at your owner’s manual and you’ll find a recommended maintenance schedule, including recommended services, mileage intervals, and timing. All of those maintenance services will positively impact how your car functions and its lifespan.

Both Transmission Fluid and Filter Should Be Changed Regularly

When it comes to transmission fluid change intervals it’s best to consult your owner’s manual to see what your car manufacturer recommends. Generally speaking, most manufacturers recommend your transmission fluid should be replaced every 45,000 to 80,000 miles depending on your driving behaviors. The short story is your transmission fluid becomes contaminated over time and if your engine and transmission overheating, it will also become burnt. The more contaminated or burnt your transmission fluid is, the less able it is to lubricate the working parts of your transmission to protect it from wear and breakdown

Transmission fluid gears

Time for a Transmission Service? Call AAMCO Colorado

If your transmission needs a check-up, come to the expert mechanics at AAMCO Colorado to have any required regular maintenance done. Or if you suspect you may need a more serious transmission repair, we can take care of you, from a free tow to your nearest location to accurate diagnosis and repair service.

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