Next to the engine itself, a car transmission is arguably the most expensive part of your car to replace. Replacing a transmission will cost you anywhere from $1,000 to $6,000 depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
You can avoid an early replacement by maintaining the transmission properly. Here are a few basic steps that will help you milk all the life you can get out of your transmission.
Keep Tabs on Fluid
Transmission fluid keeps your transmission and the parts surrounding it running sleekly. When the fluid levels dip, you’ll begin to notice problems with shifting or even odd noises.
So to maintain your transmission, make sure your transmission fluid levels stay topped off. If you’re not sure where the transmission fluid is or how to check it, crack open your driver’s manual.
If you think your transmission is leaking fluid, then you’re on a downward slide toward car transmission repair already. The fluid should be pink or clear in color. The darker the color, the more likely you are to have transmission problems right now.
Shift Smoothly
An automatic transmission is responsible for shifting gears as you speed down the highway. The sensor in the transmission will sense when the engine should shift gears so the engine doesn’t work too hard.
If you have manual transmission cars, though, then you have to shift those gears on your own. The way you drive with a manual transmission can affect the life of the transmission. So when you shift gears, shift smoothly.
When you do not find your gear immediately, you’ll hear a grinding noise. This wear and tear will negatively affect the life of your transmission. Make sure you press down far enough on your clutch so gears fall smoothly into place.
Nip It In the Bud
If you suspect a problem with your transmission, take it to a mechanic. You may be surprised to find that automatic transmission parts do not cost as much as you’d imagine. A new transmission will cost you far more, so search out a transmission expert that understands repair and replacement.
If your transmission car light comes on or if you just feel like the vehicle is shifting hard, take it in. In particular, if you hear gears grinding, if you notice slipping gears, or if you smell a strong burning odor, get your vehicle checked out.
Maintain Your Cooling System
Your cooling system plays an integral part in maintaining your transmission. The cooling system keeps your car from overheating and also cools transmission fluid as it runs through your gearbox.
Make sure you have an adequate amount of coolant. Keep your cooling system maintained as well. This will keep your engine and transmission in working order as well as keep your cockpit comfortable.
Love On Your Car Transmission
When you care for your car transmission, your car will care for you. There’s a direct correlation between how you care for your car and how long your car lasts. So take the time to check the transmission fluid, take it in for maintenance, and keep your cooling system in order.
When you do these basic tasks, you’ll see your car transmission last even longer than you’d expect. For the best articles on car maintenance and repair, keep visiting our site.