Symptoms of a damaged transmission often include vibrations, problems shifting gears, and additional issues with vehicle handling. Although falling behind with routine maintenance can lead to equipment failure, poor driving habits and additional factors also place a strain on the components. To prevent accidents caused by equipment failure, below are a few habits you should break. 

3 Ways You’re Cutting the Life of Your Transmission Short

1. Using the Wrong Fluid

The automatic transmission fluid you use should be one designed for your vehicle, so consult the owner’s manual or reach out to a repair technician for help. Using the wrong liquid means mechanical parts aren’t lubricated correctly, which forces them to work harder, resulting in premature wear. Without the right fluid, cooling capacity is also diminished, which increases the risk of equipment overheating.

2. Using the Gearstick as a Handrest 

Once drivers become more experienced, they often forget to keep hands in the 9 and 3 positions on the steering wheel. If you often rest one hand on the gearstick while driving, doing so places unnecessary pressure on transmission parts. When engaged, the gearstick temporarily applies pressure to the selector fork so it can touch a rotating collar. By resting your hand on the lever, you run the risk of applying pressure to the selector fork for long periods of time, which wears down the part.     

3. Using the Shift Lever Incorrectly

When the engine is idling quickly, resist the urge to put the shift lever in drive or reverse. Shifting gears abruptly forces the transmission to move. The sudden jolt places tensions on the bands, clutch plates, and mountings, causing rapid wear and increasing the odds of equipment malfunctions.

If infrequent maintenance or any of the above bad habits are to blame for your transmission problems, contact the fully licensed and insured team at Transmission Services. The Lincoln, NE-based crew has over 30 years of experience providing Lancaster County area residents with automobile diagnostic service to pinpoint the source of car concerns and effective solutions to eliminate the problems. Visit the technicians online to see what types of vehicles they service. To schedule transmission maintenance or repairs, call (402) 475-3637 or connect with the company on Facebook to chat with a representative.