Basic Ways to Prevent Major Transmission Problems

November 26, 2022

By taking some simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of your vehicle developing major transmission trouble. If you do notice a symptom of a transmission problem, then you’ll want to get to the shop ASAP so the issue doesn’t get the chance to worsen and become more expensive to fix. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, our local mechanics are experts at transmission service in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here are three tips for preventing serious transmission problems. 


Stay Current with Transmission Fluid Exchanges


Transmission fluid provides cooling, lubrication, fluid pressure, and rust prevention. This makes it highly important that you have the proper level of unpolluted transmission fluid. When you get a transmission fluid exchange, old contaminated fluid is emptied and replaced with clean fluid. Commonly, cars need their transmission fluid to be exchanged somewhere between 30,000 and 60,000 miles, but you’ll want to check your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s exact mileage specification. 


Check Transmission Fluid Regularly


Even if you don’t suspect a problem with it, you should still check your transmission fluid on a monthly basis. This way, it’s much more likely that you’ll know early on if your fluid has gotten too low or has begun burning. In most cases, transmission fluid is best checked with the engine still on.


Get to the Shop ASAP if You Notice Signs of a Transmission Problem


Common signs of transmission trouble include delayed/rough shifting, transmission fluid leaks, and the car suddenly popping out of gear while you’re out on the road. In manual transmissions, it’s important to watch out for symptoms of clutch failure, such as grinding, burning smells, and a clutch pedal that is spongy or noisy. Because seemingly minor transmission issues are notorious for quickly worsening, it’s important to get to the shop at the first indication of a problem.


Transmission Service in Tempe, AZ


When you need transmission service in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at (480) 966-8181. At our local auto shop, we can expertly address any of your vehicle’s repair or maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

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