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The transmission consists of hundreds of moving parts. All must work in tandem to deliver power from the engine to the wheels. On average, most models last about seven years, but some driving habits can cause costly car repairs or early failure. 

4 Transmission-Damaging Behaviors to Avoid 

1. Shifting While the Car Is Moving

While manual transmissions can easily shift when the car is moving, automatics should be at a complete stop before you move the shifter. Putting it into reverse or drive while the car is moving grinds the teeth inside the gears, potentially ruining your transmission, driveshaft, and other critical systems that will require car repair.

2. Forgetting to Change the Fluid

car repairsAutomotive transmissions create a lot of heat and friction, so it’s important to keep the fluid fresh. Old lubricant loses its viscosity and gets clogged with debris, and will eventually allow the seals, gaskets, and other components to overheat and break down. Make sure you are using the right kind of fluid and change it in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. 

3. Towing a Heavy Load

Every transmission is designed to carry a maximum load, including the weight of the vehicle and its passengers. If your vehicle isn’t meant for towing, the added strain can destroy your transmission

4. Parking Without the Emergency Brake

The only thing keeping your vehicle from rolling away when it’s in “park” is the parking pawl, which is essentially a metal pin that locks the outside shaft of the transmission. If you don’t use the emergency brake, the pawl can dislodge or break, sending pieces of metal into the transmission and your vehicle rolling downhill. While this is more of a problem for manual transmissions, it’s best practice for automatic ones, too. 


 

For over 20 years, M & R Automotive Service Center Inc. has been keeping Geneseo, NY, drivers safe with a comprehensive range of car repairs and maintenance services. If your transmission has been acting up or just needs some routine maintenance, rely on their team of experts for effective service and dependable results. To schedule your car repairs today, visit their website or call (585) 243-1201, and follow their Twitter for more automotive tips and advice.

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