Your Transmission Is Screaming for Help—Do These 5 Things Before It’s Too Late
Transmission problems can be a nightmare. Not only could the repairs be costly, but it could mean the end of your car altogether. Ignoring some of the early warning signs can lead to catastrophic damage. So, it’s important to do these five things before it’s too late.
1. Check Your Transmission Fluid Immediately
The first line of defense for your transmission is its fluid. Low or dirty transmission fluid can cause gears to slip, delay shifts, and even lead to complete failure. Make it a habit to check the fluid regularly by inspecting the dipstick while your car is warmed up. Healthy transmission fluid should be bright red and free from debris or a burnt smell. If the fluid is low, top it off with the manufacturer’s recommended type, but if it’s dark or smells burnt, a complete fluid change may be necessary.
2. Pay Attention to Warning Signs
As a former mechanic, I can tell you that transmission problems rarely appear out of nowhere. There are typically warning signs that people just ignore. Some of the common symptoms of a transmission issue include delayed shifts, a grinding noise, or your check engine light coming on (which you should never ignore). Shrugging these things off can lead to severe damage and will ultimately cost you way more to repair. Don’t wait until you’re stranded on the side of the road! Get your car checked out if you notice even the slightest sign of transmission trouble.
3. Avoid Excessive Heat
Heat is the enemy of transmission health, causing fluid breakdown and increasing the risk of failure. Excessive towing, aggressive driving, or a malfunctioning radiator can cause your transmission to overheat. Installing an external transmission cooler is a smart move if you frequently tow or drive in hot conditions. Also, ensure your radiator is functioning correctly since it helps cool your transmission fluid. Keeping your transmission cool isn’t just about comfort; it’s essential for extending its lifespan.
4. Drive Smart to Reduce Wear and Tear
This is something I talk to my wife about on a regular basis. We have very different driving habits and it has an impact on your car’s overall health, including your transmission. If you accelerate too quickly, brake suddenly, or carelessly shift gears, it can all put unnecessary strain on the system. That said, it’s important to minimize wear by driving smart. This means shifting smoothly and not revving your engine. Use your parking brake on inclines to prevent stress on the transmission’s parking pawl. Making some adjustments to the way you drive can help prevent damage to your transmission.
5. Don’t Ignore Routine Maintenance
I harp on regular maintenance all the time because it is important. It’s key to follow your car’s maintenance schedule for fluid changes. If you don’t, it could lead to fluid contamination, which reduces your transmission’s efficiency. It can even lead to mechanical failure. Not to mention, mechanics will be able to check over your car and identify other potential issues, which allows you to take care of any problems before they become costly. Spending a little on maintenance goes a long way!
Act Fast to Save Big
Your transmission is a key component of your vehicle. It’s key that you pay attention to the warning signs that there is something amiss. Identifying and addressing these issues early will help save you from a steep bill at the shop. As always, routine maintenance will help you avoid these struggles altogether. So, don’t ignore your car or these five things if you want your ride to be protected.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.