Automatic transmissions are meant to simplify driving and make the ride down the road more comfortable. Impaired driving, nevertheless, can take years off their life and generate costly repair invoices. Unlike manuals, automatics rely on a sophisticated network of electronic controls, sensors, and hydraulic pressure to shift gears quickly. When drivers adopt poor driving habits, these sensitive components are pushed beyond what they can withstand, causing early wear and breakdown.
Low or Incorrect Transmission Fluid Drive
Transmission fluid also assists in cooling, lubrication, and easy gear shifting. Low fluid levels during driving cause the transmission to overheat, making the car to hesitate to engage gears and rough shifting when forced. If you notice your gears slipping, a burning smell, or stuttering transmission, take your car to a mechanic dealing with auto repair in Killeen, TX to check the fluid level and ensure you are using the correct one. Monitor your transmission fluid level regularly and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. Correct fluid levels and conditions will keep your transmission in good operating condition and extend its life.
Shifting Gears without Stopping Entirely
Another poor habit for an automatic transmission is to shift the car from “Drive” (D) to “Reverse” (R), or the reverse, when moving. The majority of drivers do this for no other purpose but impatience, never realizing that they’re making the transmission function as a brake system. That causes wear on transmission components or complete breakdown depending on the speed you are driving. That may lead to expensive repair and high replacement costs. To prevent this, always stop before engaging in reverse gears or forward gears and vice versa.
Aggressive Riding on the Gas Pedal
The majority of drivers press the gas too aggressively, and this causes unnecessary wear on the transmission. Abrupt acceleration triggers quick gear change, and it creates additional heat and friction on the transmission system. It can cause overheating, quicker wear of internal components, and a shorter transmission life. Aggressive driving also decreases fuel economy and causes additional stress to the engine and drivetrain. A more gradual, smoother acceleration plan will reduce excessive pressure on your transmission preventing premature failure.
Using “Park” Instead of the Parking Brake
Most drivers believe that engaging the “Park” (P) gear is sufficient to prevent the vehicle from moving, particularly on a slope. That, nevertheless, puts too much pressure on the parking pawl, a little metal pin within the transmission that engages the gears to lock them up. In time, this part will wear out or even break, causing major transmission problems. To avoid putting undue pressure, always apply the parking brake also known as hand brake while parking, especially on an incline. That will save your transmission and prevent expensive repairs down the road.
Regular practice of safe driving habits and valid maintenance practices can extend the service life of your automatic transmission. Your transmission maintenance quality determines both ride quality and costs savings while improving your vehicle’s performance. Today’s transmission maintenance will protect you from future repair costs connected to system failure.
