Why Regular Transmission Maintenance is Essential

Car maintenance isn't the most fun part of owning a car, but it's as essential as taking care of your health. If your vehicle isn't taken care of, it can't take care of you and getting you to where you need to be. By keeping up with regular maintenance, you can avoid potentially costly issues down the road.

Your Car's Transmission

The transmission of a car works to deliver power to your car's wheels. It's the part that helps it go, essentially. You might have an automatic, manual, or one that is continuously variable.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance on your transmission can help prevent more significant problems. For all cars, you should check your fluid levels at least twice a year. This is important because transmission fluid is what lubricates the moving parts of your transmission so that it works to the best of its ability. Depending on how you use your car, fluid will need to be replaced, on average, every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or so. At the same time, you should also inspect and adjust the clutch pedal if you drive a car with a manual transmission. The cost to do this maintenance is minimal compared to the damage that could be caused if it's not done.

Getting a Transmission Flush

For all vehicles, getting it inspected to flush the transmission and top off the fluids is recommended based on your car's user manual, usually somewhere between 30,000 - 60,000 miles. Some mechanics may recommend more often depending on how rough you are on your car, but usually, your transmission will only need to be flushed at most three to four times in its lifetime. A flush is the process of draining your old fluid, cleaning the transmission, and adding new fluid back in.

Signs Your Transmission is Going Bad

Many signs can point to your transmission going bad and needing servicing. Any of these signs should give you pause, and you should visit an auto repair shop to get it inspected.

• Clunking noises
• Loss of power or the check engine light appears
• A burning smell or leaks under your vehicle
• A delay between gear shifts or grinding when you change gears
• A dragging clutch or slipping between gears while driving
• Shaking sensations while driving

Replacing vs. Repairing Your Transmission

When it comes time to fix or toss your transmission, there are two main things to factor in: your car's age and the cost. A replacement can cost up to $3500. But if your vehicle is newer, your transmission could be under warranty or worth repairing. Repairs on the lower end can cost around $500. The best thing to do is to get your mechanic's opinion.

The Bottom Line

No matter how new or old your car is, you should make your vehicle a priority so that long-term issues don't come up unexpectedly. At Custom Complete Automotive, we can help with all your transmission needs and work to ensure any model and make of car is in the best shape it can be so that you're safe on the road. For more information about our services, contact us today!