Your car’s transmission plays a critical role in making sure your engine’s power gets to the wheels smoothly. Without it, your car wouldn’t be able to shift gears, accelerate properly, or even move at all. That’s why when transmission issues arise, they can be some of the most frustrating—and costly—repairs to face.
The good news? Most transmission issues can be prevented with the right care and maintenance. Here’s a closer look at the most common causes of transmission trouble and how you can avoid them.
Low or Dirty Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid keeps the system lubricated and cool while helping your car shift smoothly. Over time, this fluid can become dirty, contaminated, or start to leak. When that happens, your transmission is at risk of overheating and wearing out faster.
Prevention tip:
Check your transmission fluid regularly (especially if your vehicle doesn’t have a sealed system), and have it changed based on your manufacturer’s recommendations. If you notice red fluid under your vehicle, bring it in right away—it could be a leak.
Overheating
Heat is one of the biggest enemies of your transmission. If the transmission gets too hot, it can cause parts to warp, seals to fail, and fluid to break down. Overheating often happens when you tow heavy loads, drive in stop-and-go traffic, or ignore regular maintenance.
Prevention tip:
Make sure your cooling system is working properly, and avoid overworking your vehicle, especially during hot weather.Installing an auxiliary transmission cooler can help if you tow often or drive in extreme conditions.
Neglecting Routine Maintenance
Your transmission is a complex system that requires routine inspections to catch early signs of trouble. Skipping fluid flushes or delaying filter replacements can lead to clogs, poor shifting, and internal damage.
Prevention tip:
Follow your vehicle’s service schedule and have your transmission inspected regularly. This helps prevent small issues from becoming major (and expensive) problems.
Aggressive Driving Habits
Slamming on the gas, riding the brakes, or shifting from reverse to drive without stopping fully can all put extra stress on your transmission. These habits can cause unnecessary wear and tear over time.
Prevention tip:
Practice smooth, steady driving. Allow your car to warm up in cold weather before driving hard, and always come to a complete stop before shifting gears.
Delaying Repairs
Many drivers ignore small transmission issues like slipping gears, delayed engagement, or unusual noises—only to face a complete breakdown later. Catching problems early can make the difference between a minor fix and a complete rebuild.
Prevention tip:
If you notice anything unusual—a burning smell, grinding noise, shaking, or shifting issues—get your car checked by a professional immediately. The sooner you act, the more you’ll save.
Trust Pit Shop Auto Repair in Lombard to Keep Your Transmission in Top Shape
Transmission problems don’t have to catch you by surprise. With regular maintenance and smart driving habits, you can extend the life of your transmission and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
At Pit Shop Auto Repair in Lombard, IL, our expert technicians are here to help with everything from fluid changes and inspections to complete transmission repairs. Whether you’re noticing early signs of trouble or just want peace of mind, we’ve got you covered. Schedule your transmission service with Pit Shop Auto Repair in Lombard today and drive with confidence!
