This is when we, at Chapman Auto Repair, suggest that you know more about your vehicle. Depending on the type of vehicle you drive and its age, transmission repairs can be costly. Sometimes it is impossible to avoid having a transmission repair specialist service your vehicle particularly if you are subjected to a total breakdown.
However, there are many little things that you can do help prevent transmission failure and extend the life of your transmission.
Check your transmission fluid periodically.
On many cars, light trucks, and SUVs, checking the transmission fluid is as easy as checking the oil: with the engine idling, pull out the dipstick, wipe it off, insert it again, wait, then pull it out to get an accurate reading. If the fluid level is low, you may have a leak. The fluid itself should be a bright red color, clear, and it should smell sweet. If it is murky, dark colored, or smells like rotting fish take it to a transmission repair specialist to look things over.
Have your engine’s cooling system serviced.
Your vehicle’s cooling system helps prevent the engine from overheating. However, did you know it this also makes sure the transmission fluid is pumping through the gearbox, so it is cooled too? More than likely you will need a transmission repair before your engine completely overheats. Make sure your cooling system is in optimal condition. This is also a good system to have checked before summer hits too.
Use the right type of transmission fluid.
Always, no matter what, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to ensure that you pick up the right type of transmission fluid you should use for your specific make and model of your vehicle. If after doing so you are still not sure, it is always to be better safe than sorry so you can pop into or call us at Chapman Auto Repair and ask one of our professionals.
Get your transmission flushed regularly.
Changing the transmission fluid in your car is best left to a professional. Consult your car’s owner’s manual. In general, get your vehicle’s transmission flushed once a year depending on how much you drive and the distances you drive your vehicle. How long the transmission fluid in your car will last depends on the vehicle’s operating temperature and how much driving you do.