March 29, 2024

Your Transmission Needs Love Too

transmission

Posted by Mark’s Automotive
Leading Edge

transmissionYour car’s engine seems to need all the love – oil changes, new spark plugs, clean filters and even occasional computer resets. All of those things are important. But even the best tuned engine can’t do anything without a functioning transmission.

Your car’s automatic transmission is a wonder of hydraulic engineering, sensing when your vehicle needs to trade off between torque and fuel savings. It needs your attention as well. Follow these simple tips to keep your transmission shifting like it should:

  • Check the fluid – Check transmission fluid regularly. Start the car, drive it for about 15 minutes or until the engine runs at normal operating temperature and then turn it off. Open the hood and remove the transmission fluid dipstick, which is marked with fluid level lines. Examine the fluid to ensure it has a clear amber or red hue, then wipe the stick off and place it back in the slot. Pull it out again and look at the fluid level to assess whether the transmission fluid is low.
  • Change the fluid – Swap transmission fluid any time it looks brown or dirty or as frequently as the vehicle owner’s manual recommends. Clean, fresh transmission fluid keeps a transmission running healthy for a longer period.
  • Spot leaks – Check where the vehicle parks for possible leaks. When there is a transmission fluid leak, notice fluid amber-colored build-ups beneath the car. Spotting a leak early can save an engine and transmission. It is important to note that a leak may not just be transmission fluid, so take your car to a professional for help.
  • Listen for strange noises – To catch a problem with your transmission before it causes major damage, you should always be aware of any unusual behavior, noises or vibrations from your vehicle and have them checked right away. Be wary of unusual noises when the vehicle shifts during acceleration, shift hesitation and hard shifts.

If you need help maintaining or repairing your transmission, call Mark’s Automotive at 301-866-1439.

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