Without a fully functioning car transmission, changing speeds while driving would be, at best, tricky and, at worst, impossible. This auto part monitors how much power is delivered to wheels, helping you avoid accidents. Although investing in preventative transmission service will extend its life expectancy, here’s what you can do to care for it between professional checkups. 

3 Ways to Make Your Car Transmission Last Longer

1. Change Gears When the Car Is Stopped

Some drivers are in the habit of changing gears while the car is in motion. Doing so is detrimental to your vehicle's health. The stress of the sudden gear change can weaken the spinning coupling mechanism inside the transmission. To avoid premature wear, only shift gears when the car is fully stopped.

2. Don’t Haul Heavy Loads

Unless you have a vehicle designed for hauling heavy loads, don’t use it as a towing vehicle for RVs, boats, or trailers. You shouldn’t pack the trunk or interior cabin with hefty cargo either. Your car's manufacturer's guide should include its towing rating. Keeping under this limit will prevent strain that will cause the transmission to overheat. Excessive heat can cause seals to warp and gears to split. A transmission service technician would have to replace the parts or the entire gearbox. 

3. Don’t Ignore Problems

During a service check, an auto repair specialist will change the transmission fluid to keep parts lubricated and perform other preventative maintenance steps. Although fluid should be changed every 50,000 miles, let a mechanic know if you notice any problems between intervals. A burning smell, for instance, could mean the transmission is overheating. Slipping gears and a clutch that won’t disengage should also be cause for concern.  

For reliable transmission service, contact the crew at Rocky Ford Discount Tire in Otero County, CO. For over 40 years, these ASE®-certified technicians have been the go-to source for a comprehensive list of auto services. Call (719) 254-3391 for an appointment. See photos of the team at work online. Read satisfied customer reviews on Google.