Most people keep a regular check on the essential components of their vehicles like engine oil, cooling system, and tires. However, we often forget that transmission is also a primary and crucial element of your vehicle’s wellbeing. Often, you can’t see the signs of a broken transmission until it is too late. Transmission maintenance is vital because it ensures the smooth running of your vehicle. While transmissions don’t need any significant servicing, most do require regular transmission fluid change. It is best to learn about primary transmission maintenance to avoid unreasonable expenses.
Here are the five most common questions asked about transmission maintenance.
#1- How Often Do I Need To Change My Transmission Fluid?
The transmission fluid change periods differ from vehicle to vehicle, and you can check the user’s manual for manufacturer’s recommendations about your specific vehicle. However, you can get your transmission fluid quality checked every time you change the engine oil. Note that transmission fluid is not used up when the vehicle runs, so if the fluid levels are low, you should check for possible leaks.
#2- Why Should I Change Transmission Fluid?
Transmission fluid is crucial for your vehicle to perform efficiently. If the fluid is damaged by overheating, has not been changed for a long time, or has low levels, you can experience trouble shifting gears, and your fuel economy will worsen. If you do not get it checked even then, your gears might completely stop moving, and you will have a significant expense ahead for getting the transmission repaired.
#3- How to Check Transmission Fluid Levels?
You can easily check your transmission fluid levels using the user’s manual. Once you locate the transmission dipstick, warm your car and pull the dipstick out. Clean the dipstick to remove any residual fluid. Reinsert the stick and take it out again to check its levels and color. The transmission fluid can be bright red or translucent yellow. If the fluid is dark and smells burnt, you should replace it.
#4- What is Delayed Engagement?
A delayed engagement occurs when the driver puts the car in gear, but there is a lag between gear and engine engagement. Delayed engagement is common in colder regions, and you can fix it by slowing down the acceleration. If the weather is not cold and you still experience delayed engagement, it may be due to an improperly functioning transmission filter. You should get it checked or replaced by a professional.
#5- What To Do If My Transmission is Jerking?
Rough jerks when shifting gears can happen if your vehicle is low on transmission fluid, or if the fluid is getting clogged while flowing through the transmission. If you are experiencing this, it is best to take your car to a mechanic and let them check if it is due to low transmission fluid levels, or any other issue that can possibly affect the vehicle’s performance.
About Jet Auto Transmission
If you need to repair your transmission, bring your vehicle to Jet Auto Transmission for effective, affordable repairs that last a long time.
Our mechanics have decades of experience handling transmission repairs and replacements. All our staff is ASE certified, and we have been serving the residents of West Park, Florida, since 1987. Call us at (954) 251-1204 for economical vehicle repair, upfront costs, auto transmission service, and a free quote.