Transmission Service: Preventative Measures
The transmission is the most complex component in a vehicle and one of the most expensive to repair. Although it is working constantly, it doesn't require a transmission service as often as the engine. This may be why it often gets ignored until something goes wrong. Keeping the transmission fluid clean and at the proper level is vital. Just like engine oil, the fluid and filter must be serviced on a regular basis to prevent a major transmission repair. It's also important to use only the proper type of transmission fluid.
Long before a transmission service is required, there are some simple things that most drivers can do to prevent a major transmission repair, such as:
- Regularly check where the vehicle has been parked for leaks. Low oil or fluid can cause expensive problems, so have a leak fixed as soon as possible.
- If there is a transmission dip stick, periodically check the level and condition of the fluid. If the vehicle does not have a dip stick, have it checked by your auto mechanic.
- Change the fluid as often as it's recommended in the owner's manual or when it becomes too dark (rather brown than red) or dirty.
- Vehicles are very sensitive to the type of fluid required, so only use the same type as specified in the vehicle owner's manual or on the dipstick. Using improper fluid may cause the transmission to perform poorly or to fail entirely, causing permanent damage, requiring a major transmission repair.
- Never shift to the Reverse or Park modes until the vehicle comes to a complete stop. Don't shift from 'Park' to other modes at high engine RPMs.
- Check the vehicles owner's manual if the vehicle is going to be towed. The transmission could be damaged if the car is towed improperly.
- If the vehicle is going to tow a heavy trailer, consider installing an additional transmission fluid cooler. It's also good idea to change the fluid more often.
Need quality transmission repair? Take your vehicle to a transmission service center and leave it in the trained and skilled hands of a trusted professional. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive by calling (608) 221-8321 or go on-line at https://www.clausenautomotive.com for more information. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities
The transmission is the most complex component in a vehicle and one of the most expensive to repair. Although it is working constantly, it doesn't require a transmission service as often as the engine. This may be why it often gets ignored until something goes wrong. Keeping the transmission fluid clean and at the proper level is vital. Just like engine oil, the fluid and filter must be serviced on a regular basis to prevent a major transmission repair. It's also important to use only the proper type of transmission fluid.
Long before a transmission service is required, there are some simple things that most drivers can do to prevent a major transmission repair, such as:
- Regularly check where the vehicle has been parked for leaks. Low oil or fluid can cause expensive problems, so have a leak fixed as soon as possible.
- If there is a transmission dip stick, periodically check the level and condition of the fluid. If the vehicle does not have a dip stick, have it checked by your auto mechanic.
- Change the fluid as often as it's recommended in the owner's manual or when it becomes too dark (rather brown than red) or dirty.
- Vehicles are very sensitive to the type of fluid required, so only use the same type as specified in the vehicle owner's manual or on the dipstick. Using improper fluid may cause the transmission to perform poorly or to fail entirely, causing permanent damage, requiring a major transmission repair.
- Never shift to the Reverse or Park modes until the vehicle comes to a complete stop. Don't shift from 'Park' to other modes at high engine RPMs.
- Check the vehicles owner's manual if the vehicle is going to be towed. The transmission could be damaged if the car is towed improperly.
- If the vehicle is going to tow a heavy trailer, consider installing an additional transmission fluid cooler. It's also good idea to change the fluid more often.
Need quality transmission repair? Take your vehicle to a transmission service center and leave it in the trained and skilled hands of a trusted professional. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive by calling (608) 221-8321 or go on-line at https://www.clausenautomotive.com for more information. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities
