A car’s transmission transmits power from your engine to start and run and your car. If your transmission is faulty, your car is not receiving power properly and your risk wasting gas, increasing the severity of potential necessary transmission repair, or your vehicle may not even be operable. For these reasons, it is responsible as a vehicle owner or operator to have an understanding of warning signs as well as how frequently your vehicle’s transmission should be maintained.
There are 4 types of transmission, all of which generally perform the same functions but may be operated differently including:
- AT or Automatic Transmission
- MT or Manual Transmission
- AM or Automated Manual Transmission
- CVT or Continuously Variable Transmission
How an Automatic Transmission Functions
A transmission that is automatic automatically shifts the gear your vehicle is operating in. Depending on the driving conditions, a driver may need to shift to a certain gear for more acceleration. Shifting gears allows the engine to fluidly change into the proper function and helps avoid engine damage. If your vehicle cannot properly shift gears, you are risking the safety of your driving experience in that you will not be able to adjust to the conditions of the drivers surrounding forcing them to adjust and will not be in proper control of your vehicle.
When and How Your Transmission Fluid Should Be Changed
Often dyed red or pink, as a driver you should be aware your transmission fluid needs to be periodically topped of or changed, the frequency of which is dependent on your vehicle model and make as well as how the vehicle is driven. It is safest to get this examined by a certifies technician as they are experts in examining the status of your transmission. Firstly, your vehicle’s manual should be referenced to determine the recommended amount of time the fluid should be examined. After that, it is important to also take into consideration how you operate your car, such as the distance you drive and whether or not you fluctuate acceleration frequently, and whether or not you are transporting heavy loads, as these factors could speed up the recommended time the manual suggests for examination. Again, it is best to seek counsel from a certified technician.
Undergo Transmission Repair or Transmission Replacement
If your transmission issues keep persisting or multiplying, your transmission may be too far gone, and it may make more sense financially and for purposes of safety to undergo a transmission replacement. Maintenance is key in lengthening the shelf life of your transmission. If properly maintained, it is likely you will catch issues at the start prior to severity escalating which will decrease cost of repairs as well as the number of needed repairs. Transmission repair is not necessarily always costly, it is all depended on the diagnosis. If the diagnosis is minor, opt for the repairs and judge if the performance improves or follows up with further issues. Maintenance takes driver awareness as well as communication and follow-up your certified mechanic.