Every vehicle component has an important function. However, arguably, one of the most important car parts is the transmission. Without it, your vehicle would not get very far.
Yet, transmissions can take a beating, especially if you drive your car often. Knowing when to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic, such as Ethan’s Honest Automotive in the Cache Valley, is essential. However, you should also employ the five tips in this article to extend the lifespan of your vehicle’s transmission. Not only will your vehicle thank you, but your pocketbook will as well.
What is a Transmission?
While you do not need to be a vehicle transmission expert, you should have a basic understanding of what the transmission is and how it works. This mechanical component facilitates the transfer of power from the engine to the wheels, allowing the vehicle to move forward or backward at different speeds. It essentially serves as a bridge between the engine’s power output and the wheels’ rotational speed, adapting the power to meet the vehicle’s driving requirements.
There are two main types of transmission, which are described in detail below.
- Manual: Manual transmissions were developed first. They are also called stick shifts or standard transmissions. Manual transmission vehicles require the driver to manually shift gears for the car. They use a gear selector and a clutch pedal.
- Automatic: Automatic transmissions became standard in many vehicles in the 1970s, and today, the vast majority of vehicles in the U.S. are automatic. In automatic transmissions, the gears are changed automatically. The driver does not play a role in the gear-shifting process. Instead, automatic transmissions use a hydraulic or electronic system to engage and disengage gears based on factors such as vehicle speed, engine load, and throttle input.
Signs Your Transmission Needs the Help of a Mechanic
Both manual and automatic transmissions require regular maintenance and may have issues. You can identify many of their problems from similar signs. If you notice any of the signs listed below, you should seek the advice of a professional mechanic immediately, as they could indicate a transmission failure.
- Slipping gears: The transmission is designed to shift gears smoothly. If your vehicle begins slipping out of gear as you are driving, it is a sign that something is wrong with your transmission.
- Delayed or difficult shifting: Similarly, a vehicle that has trouble getting into gear, whether that be because of delayed or difficult shifting, often has a transmission problem. Likely, these issues could be caused by low transmission fluid, a faulty solenoid, or worn-out components.
- Burning smell: You should never smell a burning odor when you are driving your vehicle. It often indicates overheating or grinding components in the transmission.
- Unusual transmission noises: Clunking, grinding, whining, or other unusual noises that occur when you shift are a problem. This issue needs to be investigated immediately, as it could indicate worn bearings, damaged gears, or another mechanical failure.
- Fluid leaks: Transmissions use fluid as a lubricant. Any sign of this fluid leaking out of the vehicle is a problem. Most transmission fluid is dark red, but it could also be blue or purple. Check for puddles of the liquid under your vehicle while it is parked.
- Check engine light: The modern check engine light is a great tool for the vehicle owner. It indicates that something is wrong with your car; however, it cannot tell you what. If you notice the check engine light on, make sure to take your vehicle to the mechanic as soon as you can.
The Top Five Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Vehicle’s Transmission
Many transmission issues are inevitable, but you can extend the lifespan of the transmission if you follow the tips described below.
- Stay on top of routine maintenance:
Routine maintenance is one of the best things you can do for your vehicle. Many services fall under the heading of routine maintenance. At Ethan’s Honest Automotive, for example, scheduled maintenance encompasses oil changes, tire rotation, A/C service, brake service, fluid changes (including transmission fluid), and much more. The recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle is in the owner’s manual. Following it will ensure your vehicle stays in peak condition for as long as possible. - Check transmission fluid regularly:
The transmission fluid is vital for cooling and lubricating the transmission. Regularly check the fluid level and ensure it is within the recommended range. Low fluid levels can lead to overheating and damage. Therefore, if the fluid is low, it should be topped off as soon as possible. - Do not overload the vehicle:
Most vehicles have a weight limit. It is essential for your transmission’s health that you do not surpass this limit. Overloaded vehicles can cause undue stress to the transmission, making it more likely to fail. - Warm up the car before driving:
It is a good idea to warm up your vehicle for a few minutes before you begin driving it, especially during the cold Cache Valley winters. As your vehicle warms up, the transmission fluid also gets warmer, allowing it to circulate better and reduce wear and tear on the parts. - Avoid “neutral coasting”:
Many drivers may think that keeping your vehicle in neutral and “coasting” down the road would be better. It may help to save on fuel; however, it can cause damage to your transmission. Modern vehicles use engine braking to maintain control and reduce wear on the transmission and brakes. Therefore, coasting in neutral deprives the transmission of lubrication and can lead to overheating and premature wear. So, stay away from neutral coasting, and your transmission will thank you in the long run.
Transmission health is a vital part of vehicle maintenance. Understanding when to bring your car to a mechanic to have the transmission checked out is extremely important, as is following the tips above to extend the lifespan of your transmission. Following the advice in this guide will ensure you enjoy a well-running car for a long time.
If you need transmission maintenance in the Cache Valley and Southeastern Idaho, call Ethan’s Honest Automotive. We provide the best and most honest mechanic services in the industry.
