Simple Tips To Extend The Life Of Your Transmission

The transmission is one of the most essential parts of your vehicle. Without it, your engine won't change gears and your vehicle won't really drive forward (or backward). It actually can be very simple to maintain, but if something goes wrong with it, the transmission can be one of the most expensive parts to replace.

So before you're faced with a huge repair bill and a stationary vehicle, it's better to learn a few simple tips now to help you maintain the life of your transmission and turn them into regular habits for your future.

Everyday Driving Habits to Keep Your Transmission Running Great

There are many steps you can take to keep your transmission running in optimum condition. Some items on the list involve a little more planning and minimal expense. Others are simple driving habits that you can change right now to have a lasting impact on the life of your transmission. Those everyday driving habits include:

• Let your engine warm up before putting your vehicle into gear. No matter what the weather conditions are outside, it's good to let your engine idle between two to three minutes before heading out on your way.
• Don't change gears until your vehicle is completely stopped. If you are pulling out of your driveway or a parking spot, don't throw your car into drive on an automatic transmission or switch gears into first on a manual transmission until your vehicle has completely stopped rolling. Trust us; the extra second or two won't make you late for your appointment.
• Think before you tow. You might be wondering why this would be a problem if you have a hitch or towing package installed on your vehicle. But consider the size of the object you need to tow and the comparative size of your own vehicle. Unless you have a Super-Duty Truck or SUV, towing another vehicle might put more stress on your own engine than it can handle efficiently.
• Watch how you brake. Try not to slam on your brakes too frequently. This is not good for them or your transmission.
• Watch your speed in a Manual Transmission. This means, don't make a habit out of driving 45mph in first gear. Be sure you're shifting properly so you don't damage your transmission.

There are some important long-term prevention steps you can take as well to help protect your transmission for years to come. They might cost you a small amount up front but will save you tremendously over time.

• Check your transmission fluid regularly. Taking five minutes to make sure you have enough fluid in your transmission, or to add a small amount if needed, will add years to your transmission.
• Service your vehicle regularly. Think of this as your "well-check" for the life of your car. Get regular tune-ups; check to make sure there isn't anything wrong with your engine. When your vehicle isn't running smoothly, it'll be bad for your transmission over time.
• Use synthetic fluids for your transmission. There are transmission additives available that will improve the performance of your transmission by reducing or modifying the friction within. These fluids will give your transmission the added boost it needs to run at its best.
• Install a transmission cooler or fan. You may have never heard of such a thing, but if your vehicle experiences heavy use over rough terrain, it might be a good idea to ask your mechanic about it. For vehicles that experience significant stress- whether by towing, hauling or difficult travel- installing an auxiliary unit will help to keep the transmission cooler so that it doesn't cause your engine to overheat.
• Find a trusted mechanic and stick with them. Not every mechanic cares about you, your vehicle or your needs. Some only care about money. Find a mechanic that you can trust and have confidence in. Make sure he/she is knowledgeable about your specific brand and model of vehicle before asking them to peek under the hood.

At Express Transmissions, we know that not every transmission repair is equal. Service the Greater Toledo region, our experienced team of pros will help keep your transmission running smoothly and improve the function of your car. And if you do experience transmission problems, we offer comprehensive transmission repairs that you can trust with a warranty that you can count on. Contact us today at 419-861-8118 to schedule that long overdue tune-up or to find out more information on our transmission repair services.