Transmission Services can Prolong the Life of a Vehicle
Taking the time for an oil change every 3,000 miles is second nature to most car owners. Many conscientious drivers do not consider regular transmission maintenance though. The transmission, like the engine, needs periodic services to keep it running reliably and to prolong its mileage.
How to Prolong the Life of a Transmission
Aside from regular transmission services the life of a transmission can be prolonged through certain habits. First off, never shift into park or reverse until the vehicle has come to a complete stop. The area where the car is parked should be checked for signs of fluid leakage on the ground. Catching a leak and therefor low levels of fluid can stop a transmission from attempting to run on low to now fluid and being permanently damaged. And transmission should never be used for braking. These driving habits can add life to a vehicle and prolong the need for a transmission rebuild or replacement.
How Often Should a Vehicle Receive Transmission Services?
The periodic transmission services for most vehicles is based on mileage more than a set time period much like oil changes for the engine. The transmission fluid should be changed either every 15,000 miles or one time a year, although some newer vehicles come with a manufacture’s guide that increases the time to 36,000 miles or three years. The older the vehicle the more frequent services it will need. Fluid changing services take about an hour and a half to complete and can add years to a transmission and reduce the risk of a driver being stranded by sudden problems.
There are other services that should be scheduled regularly to keep the vehicle running smooth for as long as possible. These include tire rotation and alignment, transmission flushing, computer check-ups of the engine and before trip check ups. A bit of prevention can literally save a driver thousands and keep them safer on the road. A wise driver can find a trusted source for auto repair in Longmont and begin a long-term relationship with an expert mechanic to ensure the longest life possible for their vehicle.
