With today’s high gas prices and the cost of everything else going up too, no one wants to face expensive transmission repairs or even a full transmission replacement. Yet, that’s exactly what will happen if you ignore essential routine vehicle maintenance or practice faulty driving habits. Rather than focusing on the negative, however, let’s talk about what you can do to save money on transmission repairs and even improve transmission performance.

How to Improve Transmission Performance and Extend Transmission Life

Since a transmission rebuild or replacement can cost thousands of dollars, it’s wise to become familiar with how to avoid such expensive repairs. The tips below can help you do just that. Plus, you may even notice improved transmission performance, helping your vehicle run more smoothly.

1. Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended towing and carrying capacity. An overworked transmission will overheat, get damaged and sometimes even fail entirely. If you consistently tow or carry heavy loads, be sure to stay under the weights recommended for your specific vehicle make and model.

2. Schedule regular transmission service. Just as clean oil in the right amounts helps your engine stay healthy, transmission fluid that’s clean and at the right level can help your transmission operate smoothly and efficiently. Ask your mechanic to check the fluid regularly, look for leaks, and schedule a transmission flush every 30,000 miles.

3. Stop before shifting. Never shift between drive and reverse without first putting your vehicle into park. This will damage internal transmission components and can leave you with an expensive transmission repair on your hands.

4. Use the emergency brake. Your vehicle’s emergency brake is intended to hold the weight of the vehicle, effectively taking the stress off the transmission. This is especially important to remember when parking on an incline.

5. Avoid cold starts. Whenever you start your vehicle in cold weather, allow it to warm up before shifting gears.

6. Invest in an external cooler. Do you often tow heavy loads or carry a lot of weight in your vehicle? An auxiliary transmission oil cooler can help take the strain off your transmission and improve transmission performance.

7. Keep the cooling system functioning properly. Your vehicle’s radiator and cooling system help keep the transmission cool, too. Since overheating is a leading cause of transmission problems, it pays to schedule cooling system service every 12 or 24 months, depending on the type of coolant used.

Preventative Maintenance in Tempe, AZ

Practicing smart driving habits and scheduling regular preventative maintenance for your vehicle are two great ways to help it run smoothly and even last longer. After all, why spend more of your hard earned money on auto repairs than absolutely necessary?

For access to professional, affordable, and friendly auto repair and maintenance services in Tempe, AZ, simply give us a call or schedule an appointment online. We look forward to helping you get the most out of your vehicle investment.