People who are busy or on a tight budget often neglect routine car maintenance. However, putting off oil changes, tire replacements, brake checkups, and transmission services is one of the biggest mistakes a car owner can make. In the long run, it will lead to poor performance, mechanical failure, or even a serious accident. The experts at Quality Transmission Service in Anchorage, AK, want you to be safe on the road, so they will explain how bad habits harm your transmission.

Transmission Service Pros Share 5 Mistakes That Damage Your System

1. Driving With Low Transmission Fluid

When your car’s transmission fluid is low, the system must work harder than it should. The added strain on your transmission can cause your vehicle to overheat or break down.

2. Overheating the Transmission

One of the worst things you can do to your transmission is to let it overheat, as this will significantly reduce its life span. Avoid stop-and-go driving as well as traveling long distances with heavy loads in warm temperatures to prevent the need for transmission repairs.

3. Ignoring Minor Problems

Your vehicle’s transmission is designed to provide a smooth ride. If it shakes or stalls while you’re driving, don’t dismiss these problems as minor — they’re warning signs your car needs transmission service.

4. Skipping Regular Maintenance

Automotive experts recommend you change your transmission fluid every 30,000–60,000 miles. There’s a lot that can happen to the system due to the amount of work it does daily, so it’s wise to invest a few dollars on preventive care for your transmission to ensure it runs smoothly for a longer period.

5. Using the Wrong Fluid

Transmission fluids have varying levels of viscosity for specific vehicles. Using the wrong transmission fluid can prevent your system from performing optimally and could cause a buildup of grime and debris that causes problems.

These mistakes are easy to avoid, but they account for only a few reasons you may need regular transmission service. To schedule maintenance, call Quality Transmission Service at (907) 561-8767. Visit their website for information about other ways they will keep your car in top working order, including engine repair and brake service. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter to receive news and tips from their car repair experts.