Prevention
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1. Check your transmission fluid level
The fluid in an automatic transmission operates the clutches, provides cooling and lubrication, and even drives the vehicle. So few things are more important than proper fluid operating level for keeping your transmission working.
Most automatic transmissions have a dipstick for checking the fluid level. If you’re not sure where yours is or are uncomfortable with checking it yourself, stop in and we’ll be glad to do it for you!
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2. Check transmission concerns promptly
Most transmission problems start out small. They get worse over time Very often, you can eliminate major repairs simply by taking care of the problem early on.
Whether it’s a warning light on the dash, a few drops of fluid on the garage floor, or a change in the way the transmission operates, your best bet is to stop in and see us for a free inspection right away!
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3. Service your transmission regularly
Transmission fluids have a number of unique properties that wear out over time. When they wear out be sure transmission problems will be soon to follow. We recommend an annual filter and fluid change every year that can add years to your transmission’s life!
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4. Add a friction modifier to the fluid
New fluid can really help your transmission last longer. There are a number of additives on the market that have demonstrated the ability to increase transmission life and reliability. Even go beyond the extra miles you can expect from regular service.
In most cases, you won’t be able to find worthwhile additives in your supermarket or do-
it- yourself parts place. The truly effective additives are available at a professional transmission repair center (such as ours). -
5. Install an auxiliary trans fluid cooler
The #1 reason for transmission failure is heat.
Transmission temperature can quickly exceed 300 degrees Fahrenheit! At that temperature seals begin to harden, clutches begin to burn, and the fluid itself breaks down.
To help eliminate excess heat from the automatic transmission fluid, have an auxiliary cooler installed. This is particularly important on vehicles that tow, carry heavy loads, or travel through hilly or rough terrain.
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6. Install a cooler line filter
All automatic transmissions have some type of a filter inside them. These filters vary in effectiveness. Meanwhile, loose dirt and metal particles can quickly erode thrust washers and bushing surfaces, clog passages and reduce transmission life.
One of the best ways to eliminate these contaminants is to add an in-
line filter. An inline filter also helps prevent your cooler from being plugged with debris from the transmission that passes thru the filter. -
7. Service the cooling system
You may not realize it, but your cars cooling system does more that just keep the engine running cool. It is also used to cool the transmission fluid through a heat-
exchanger built in to the vehicles radiator. A faulty cooling system cannot only damage your engine, it can reduce your transmissions life as well. In fact, transmission damage may occur long before the engine overheats.
To avoid both engine and transmission problems, keep your vehicles cooling system in proper working order with regular maintenance.
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8. Tune the engine
The engines and transmissions in today’s cars are linked far more closely than in the past. A problem with engine performance can put much more strain on the transmission than one that’s running properly.
That’s another good reason to keep your vehicles engine in good running order. A good running engine reduces the stress on your transmission, so the transmission can last longer without requiring major repairs.
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9. Help the transmission shift
Virtually all transmission wear takes place during the shifts. So one way to reduce transmission wear is to reduce the load during the shift.
Pay attention to the speed when your transmission shifts normally. Then, just before the normal shift speed, lean back of the gas just a bit. Easing off the gas will force the shift, while reducing the laod on the clutches. A sure way to improve the transmission life.
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10. Take your transmission to an ATRA Member Center