5 Common Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Transmission

Automatic transmissions may be formidable, but they still need the right things in place to run as smoothly as possible. A routine checkup is a great way to ensure your transmission is in good shape. The most common mistakes people make when it comes to their transmissions are more often than not due to a lack of knowledge. Luckily, we have found the 5 most common mistakes to look out for that can destroy your transmission.

1. Forgetting to service your transmission 

Periodic tuning of an automatic transmission is required, just as you would have a checkup at the doctor once or twice a year. Dirt and impurities will build up inside your transmission if you fail to service it, leading it to function sluggishly and develop difficulties over time. If you leave it alone long enough, you’ll be met with a transmission that has failed. Experts suggest getting your transmission serviced every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

2. Running on Low Transmission Fluid

Running on low fluid is a significant problem for transmissions. Transmission fluid is required by automatic transmissions to lubricate their various parts, supply hydraulic fluid pressure, and cool themselves from any heat they generate. If your transmission fluid levels are optimal, it will perform as it should, but if they aren’t, it will work overtime to compensate for the fluid deficiency. Check your transmission fluid levels on a regular basis to avoid this, and don’t forget to look at how dirty the fluid is as well.

3. Using the Wrong Type of Transmission Fluid

Some people may believe that all transmission fluid is the same, however this is untrue. Various ATF is required for specific transmissions to function properly, and it is your obligation to ensure that your transmission receives the correct fluid, whether you have it serviced or add fluid yourself.

4.  Ignoring Problems Until It’s Too Late

When you shift gears, do you hear a peculiar noise? Is your driveway stained with a dark red liquid? Do you have grinding, shaking, sliding, or stalling issues? Any unexpected symptoms you notice with your transmission are cause for concern, and they demand rapid attention.

5.  Allowing Your Transmission to Overheat

High fluid temperatures are what destroy your transmission in the end; it’s claimed that 90 percent of all transmission breakdowns are caused by too much heat. Connecting a transmission temperature gauge is a wonderful method to keep track of your transmission’s operating temperature while you’re on the road, and it’s strongly suggested to avoid overheating.