WHAT DOES A CAR TRANSMISSION DO

Your car’s transmission uses the power of your vehicle to move the engine at various speeds. There are two designs of transmissions; automatic and manual. Automatic vehicles perform all the work for you such as shifting from precise operating systems. Manual transmissions are run solely by the driver. Drivers must know when the maximum gear range is reached in order to shift without ruining the vehicle’s transmission, which is a costly part to replace. 

WHAT IS TRANSMISSION FLUID?

Transmission fluid is used to lubricate all the components of your car’s transmission. This allows for the parts to move among one another more smoothly and produce less friction and heat. It also helps your engine operate at its peak performance, so having it under your hood is important. Transmission fluid is typically red or green and every car requires a specific type of transmission fluid in order to operate correctly. Automatic and manual transmission fluid is different in how it is made. Automatic transmission fluid is made up of synthetic liquids and oils that are combined with chemical compounds. Manual transmission fluids are made up of motor oil, gear oil and occasionally of automatic transmission fluid. Because of the harmful chemicals that are associated with transmission fluid, it is important to keep it up and out of reach of individuals. 

SIGNS OF YOUR TRANSMISSION GOING BAD

It is important to understand when your transmission might be failing in order to save you from a potentially dangerous situation and costly repair. You should watch your RPMs (Revolutions Per Minute) while you drive and shift. If your car is revving much higher that it normally does at lower speeds, this is a sign of internal problems with your transmission. By listening to your engine, you are able to notice a loud sound while accelerating.  This may signify that your manual transmission could be having difficulties shifting gears and your parts are grinding together. Be aware of odd smells coming from your engine. Anything smoky or burning is not a good sign. If odors or smoke are detected, you should pull your vehicle over immediately. Monitor whether your vehicle has the ‘get up and go’ power it normally does. If your car is not responding as it should, this is an indicator you might have a failing transmission. By making yourself aware of signs that something might be wrong with your transmission, you can detect and diagnose problems much faster, saving you from possibly having to buy a new transmission. 

HOW TO PROLONG THE LIFE OF YOUR TRANSMISSION

Without your transmission your car will not be able to operate, which is why you should take steps to prolong the life of your car’s transmission. By down shifting your automatic transmission while exiting off a highway off-ramp, you are making your engine slow down too quickly.  This causes your gears to wear against each other, which can potentially cause a leak or crack in your transmissions components. Make sure to only shift your automatic transmission for instance, from reverse to drive, when you are completely stopped. Shifting when your car is still in motion overworks your car’s U Joints and causes additional stress on the transmission. Always check your engine for leaks because a leaky transmission can become damaged and put a lot of pressure on your gears.  Most importantly, have a routine checkup performed on your vehicle and be aware of any leaks under your car. By taking care of your transmission, you are able to get more mileage out of your transmission and you can enjoy a safe trip down the road.