Your vehicle’s transmission is one of its most complex and important systems, so it pays to treat it well and avoid expensive repairs. To help you keep it running smoothly, the mechanics at Friendly Transmission Service in High Point, NC, offer some tips. By following the transmission maintenance suggestions below, you can save money, extend the life of your vehicle, and prevent inconvenient breakdowns.

Protect Your Vehicle With These 3 Transmission Maintenance Tips

1. Check & Change Transmission Fluid

A fluid lubricates the gears and other moving parts of your transmission to enable smooth shifts and prevent friction and overheating. To work properly, the fluid must be topped off and free of contaminants, so check its level and quality every 1,000 miles or so. It should be translucent, meaning light can penetrate it, and bright red, pink, or green in color. Change the fluid every 50,000 miles or as soon as you notice a burnt smell or flecks of dirt or debris.

2. Warm Up Your Car in Cold Weather

Let your vehicle warm up two or three minutes before you shift into gear on cold mornings. This gives the oil and transmission fluid time to warm up and circulate to all parts before you put stress on the car's drivetrain. It prevents wear and tear from occurring, reduces the need for expensive transmission repair, and helps your vehicle run smoothly.

3. Use Your Emergency Brake

Instead of letting your transmission support the weight of your car when you park on an incline or decline, engage your parking brake. This removes the stress you'd otherwise place on the transmission pin and linkage and reduces the risk of costly damage.

For assistance with your transmission maintenance, contact the experts at Friendly Transmission Service in High Point, NC. Whether you need the fluid changed or the component rebuilt entirely, they bring more than 30 years of experience to the table and are ASE-certified. Visit their website for more information about their services, or call (336) 882-1164 to speak with a knowledgeable professional.