Transmissions are a fairly durable component of a vehicle. Even though they are durable they all too often get ruined and destroyed. There are various causes that can ruin a vehicle’s transmission. For those who are unaware of these common mistakes, Gomez Transmissions will cover some of the most common mistakes that drivers or car owners do that can ruin their transmission.
Delayed Servicing of your Transmission
Just like your vehicle’s oil and filter, the transmission needs periodic tune-ups as well. It is recommended to have your transmission and fluid levels checked anywhere from 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on the vehicle’s age. That’s roughly once every two to five years. For those who fail to service their transmission, often dirt and other contaminants can build up inside the transmission fluid which makes the transmission fluid thicken. Should this happen, your vehicle will begin to run poorly and further problems will occur as time goes on. That’s why it is important to change or completely flush your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles to ensure proper lubrication of the transmission. It is also strongly recommended to change your transmission filter every time you service your transmission.
Low Transmission Fluid
Another similar issue with not servicing your transmission as needed is when your transmission fluid gets too low. If you haven’t serviced your transmission when it is required, or the transmission fluid is somehow leaking, the results are low fluid levels. This becomes a serious problem pretty quickly. Transmission fluid is designed to lubricate your transmission, balance the fluid pressure, and keep the transmission cooled. It is recommended that you check your transmission fluid level every six months to ensure proper levels and has a good color which is a light red. If your transmission fluid is low it indicates there is a leak somewhere. If your transmission fluid is a dark reddish brown or black, you need to flush your transmission fluid ASAP and replace it.
Wrong Types of Transmission Fluid
Some people are unaware that you need a certain type of transmission fluid for your vehicle. Often when a vehicle owner realizes that they are low on transmission fluid will add the wrong type. Your particular vehicle’s transmission will require a specific ATF in order to perform correctly. Using the wrong transmission fluid will result in transmissions overheating and not being lubricated properly, which eventually will ruin the transmission.
Ignoring Transmission Failure Signs
Another common mistake is when car owners ignore typical signs of transmission problems. Some of these signs are a loud ringing noise when your vehicle shifts gears. Another one is transmission fluid leaking or leaves spots on your driveway. These spots will look a dark reddish color typically. Some other common transmission problems may be shaking, grinding or frequent stall outs. When these signs or problems begin to occur, you will want to have your transmission inspected and serviced. If you allow these early warning signs to continue without addressing the problem, your entire transmission is at risk.
Driving while Your Transmission is Overheating
If you haven’t been keeping a close eye on your transmission fluid level and the fluid is low or leaking, your transmission will begin to overheat. Some will continue to drive their vehicle even while it is overheating. This means the death of your transmission. Without proper lubrication and when the transmission overheats, it can slip or get a defective solenoid.
Transmission Service in Irving, Richardson, Garland, Mesquite, Duncanville, Farmers Branch, Balch Springs & Dallas, Texas
It is important to maintain your vehicle’s transmission and its fluids. Don’t become a neglectful car owner. Be sure to have your transmission serviced every 30,000 to 60,000 miles to ensure prefect performance and long lasting results. If you need your vehicle transmission repaired or serviced, contact Gomez Transmissions today!
