Transmission repair is not at the top-of-mind of most people. However, the reality is that a manual or automatic transmission requires as much maintenance and care as other parts of the vehicle. The transmission is what makes the car move. Regular transmission maintenance will avoid major problems down the road.
Majority of cars these days come with automatic transmission. Here we have listed five important tips for proper maintenance of automatic transmission.
1. Regularly Change Transmission Fluid
You, or Big Bear’s best auto repair shop, should inspect your transmission fluid periodically. The transmission fluid should be changed at regular intervals. Regularly changing the transmission fluid will minimize transmission problems and even reduce transmission noise while at speed. You should read the manufacturer’s manual to find out how often to change the transmission fluid. Also, you should use the transmission fluid recommended by the manufacturer to avoid any damage to the vehicle’s transmission.
2. Check for Leaks
You should check for possible leakage of the transmission fluid. Look underneath the car to check for a leak. If you suspect a leakage, you should immediately consult a professional car mechanic. Remember that a fluid leakage is not a minor issue. A leakage of the transmission fuel can compromise the safety of your car and endanger your life as well as pedestrians.
3. Avoid Coasting in Neutral
Some people think that coasting the car down a hill in a neutral will conserve fuel. The reality is that it can do major damage to the transmission. Switching to the neutral gear cuts the oil supply due to which the transmission is not properly lubricated. You should break this habit as it results in accelerated wear and damages the transmission while providing insignificant fuel savings.
4. Properly Shift Gears
Remember that there is a right and a wrong way to shift the gear. Proper shifting of gears is important for maintenance of the transmission. Some people have the habit of putting the gear in neutral when stopping at a signal. However, switching in and out of gears can result in rapid wearing out of the gearbox. You should instead push the brakes, and keep the gear in the drive mode when stopping at a signal. This will result in less wearing out of the transmission.
Another mistake that people make is shifting the gear to Park or Reverse when the car is moving. This can also lead to rapid wear and tear of the transmission. You should always bring the car to a complete halt before switching the gears. In addition, you should press the brake pedal fully when switching the gears.
Phil’s Automotive Transmission Repairs
While transmission repairs help keep Phil’s Automotive in business, we want car owners to do their part in minimizing transmission problems. If your a resident or visitor in Big Bear Lake, California, you can schedule maintenance of the transmission to keep it in top shape. Our ASE certified mechanics have years of experience working on both automatic and manual transmission of modern and classic cars. Call us today at (909) 878-3377 to get a quote on transmission diagnostics, repair or replacements in Big Bear Lake, CA.
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