There are few components more important to a vehicle than its transmission. It distributes power from your engine to the wheels, shifting gears higher and lower depending on the torque required. Keeping your transmission healthy ensures that your vehicle continues to operate at a high level and provide a smooth ride at all speeds. Below, Northgate Transmissions in Cincinnati, OH, shares the top ways to maintain a healthy transmission. 

How to Maintain Your Transmission

1. Change Transmission Fluid

Every few months, you should check your transmission fluid to make sure it hasn't gotten black or burnt. While the darkening of transmission fluid over time is normal, fluid that smells burnt or has zero transparency is a sign that it should be flushed out and replaced. 

2. Be Aware of Warning Signs

One way to prevent against more serious transmission problems is to stay alert to the smaller issues that could exacerbate over time. These include rocky shifting between gears, delayed acceleration, and recurring whining or screeching coming from under your hood. If you hear or observe any of these problems, taking your car to a mechanic may save your vehicle from a more serious breakdown. 

3. Read Your Owner's Manual

Every car's maintenance requirements are a little different, so it pays to know the specifics of how to take care of your vehicle. Your owner's manual should tell you how often your car needs transmission maintenance, which often ranges from 30,000 to 50,000 miles; how to tell if the fluid is no longer effectively lubricating your transmission; and potential causes for concern in your transmission. 

Northgate Transmissions has provided residents of greater Cincinnati with exceptional auto repair for more than 30 years. By focusing exclusively on drive-train and transmission work, these specialists have the knowledge and expertise to handle everything from a transmission flush to clutch replacement. Visit the team's website to learn more about their top-notch work, or call them directly at (513) 385-4400.