From improved control to better gas mileage, there are many advantages to driving a stick shift. But while using a manual transmission has its benefits, shifting gears properly requires the right technique. If you aren’t operating the stick shift correctly, you run the risk of ruining your transmission. To avoid the need for costly auto repairs or transmission replacement, here are five bad driving habits you should avoid.

5 Common Ways Drivers Harm Manual Transmissions

1. Not Shifting to Neutral at Stops

It might seem easier to stay in gear for a quick stop, but stopping without going in neutral places excessive pressure on the gearbox. If you keep the habit up, you’ll wear out parts of the gearbox at a rapid rate and have to replace them.

2. Resting Your Foot on the Clutch

Whether you’re riding the clutch on a steep incline or simply using it as a footrest, putting continuous pressure on the pedal can do severe damage. Over time, this pressure will cause the clutch to wear out faster than normal and will eventually impair your ability to shift into different gears properly.

3. Keeping Your Hand on the Stick Shift

Similar to resting your foot on the clutch, keeping your hand on the stick shift can be problematic. Even if it doesn’t feel like you’re putting a lot of pressure on the shift, the weight of your hand stresses out transmission components and causes premature wear.  

4. Over-Accelerating  

If you push too hard on the gas in a lower gear or engine RPM, you run the risk of damaging both the engine and the transmission. This practice may contribute to engine overheating and cracking the cylinder, potentially requiring you to replace the entire system.  

5. Forgetting to Flush

While transmission fluid may not need to be changed as often as the oil, it’s still important to keep this maintenance task in mind. If the fluid is low or dirty, the transmission won’t be properly lubricated and may overheat. To avoid system failure, have an auto shop perform a transmission flush at least once every 50,000 miles and keep an eye on fluid levels to catch potential leaks early on.

Although avoiding these bad habits can extend the life of your manual transmission, you may still encounter issues that require professional attention. In these moments, turn to the specialists at Northgate Transmissions in Cincinnati, OH. Providing qualified service for more than three decades, this shop is known for pinpointing transmission issues with accuracy and simplifying repairs to ensure drivers can get back on the road with confidence. Whether you need a routine transmission flush, rebuild, or replacement, this team will deliver quality results at a competitive rate. To learn more about these services, visit the shop online or call (513) 385-4400.