Transmission Fluid Replacement Keeps Your Car Running Smoothly

Take a look at your car’s mileage and if you’re approaching 100,000 miles, you may want to consider a transmission fluid flush or replacement. This is a general rule of thumb, so you’ll want to check your owner’s manual for a more specific recommendation for your car. 

It’s also important to keep an eye on how your car is running and any possible fluid leaks. Many modern cars now have a transmission fluid dipstick, much like how you check your engine oil. Checking the level and condition of your transmission fluid before hitting the open road can help prevent any surprises that could leave you stranded or lead to a more serious transmission repair.

Your Car’s Cooling System Keeps the Engine and Transmission Healthy

Without a well-operating cooling system, both your engine and transmission are at risk of overheating. This is especially true when driving through hilly or mountainous environments that put extra strain on your transmission. Ensure your car has the proper amount of coolant and while you’re driving, keep an eye on the engine temperature gauge. If your engine shows signs of overheating, it’s likely your transmission is also warmer than it should be. Cooling system maintenance will ensure your car is ready for a mountain drive and your engine and transmission aren’t at risk of overheating.

Tire Alignments Help Drivability – and Your Transmission

You may not associate tire health with engine or transmission health, but sometimes they go hand in hand. If you notice your car pulling to one side or vibrating, it’s a sure sign that you need a tire alignment and suspension service. These problems can be a nuisance to you, but they can also put extra strain on your car’s transmission. While it’s manageable under normal driving circumstances, it’s even more important to make sure you aren’t putting extra strain on your car’s systems when heading to the mountains.

Brake Cautiously

While using your brakes on downhill slopes is unavoidable, you should be mindful of how and when you’re using your brake pedal. When travelling down a long hill, you should use automatic transmission engine braking to avoid overheating your brakes. How do you do this? When travelling downhill, shift your automatic transmission into a lower gear using the gearshift. Typically, you will have the choice of ‘D’,’3′,’2′ and ‘1’ or similar. This driving technique helps avoid overheating your brakes from too much use. When you do use your brakes, avoid slamming your foot on the brake pedal and instead be proactive about braking gently.

Listen to Your Car on Uphill Stretches

If your car is having trouble, it’ll show you signs. Pay attention to any changes in sounds, smells, or how your car is driving and if you notice anything unusual, pull to the side of the road. Sometimes simply letting your car rest and cool down can save you from more serious car repairs and allow you to get safely back home. If you aren’t comfortable driving your car home, don’t push it.

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