Maintenance Tips to Avoid Costly Transmission Repairs

Your vehicle's transmission is the system that connects to the back of the engine, and its primary role is to provide power to the wheels so that they can turn at a given speed. It also ensures that the wheels and engine are in proper sync. The transmission is made up of various components such as the planetary gear set, torque converter, and computer sensors. Whether your vehicle runs on a manual or automatic transmission, you need to maintain it to ensure that the car runs optimally. Failure to do so can lead to excessive fuel consumption or even cause the car not to start at all.

Here you will learn some useful maintenance tips that will keep your transmission in proper condition and save you from incurring costly repairs.

Check transmission fluid regularly

The transmission fluid acts as the medium that transmits power to the wheels; therefore, it should be kept at appropriate levels at all times. Low transmission fluid can result in damage to critical parts of the system. Form a habit of checking the fluid every month. You don't even have to visit an auto repairer for this. Just follow the following simple steps:

• Check your car's manual to determine whether you should check transmission fluid when the vehicle is running.
• Pop the hood of the car and check for the transmission dipstick.
• Once you get it, look at whether it is covered with liquid up to the indicated line.

If the dipstick is covered with fluid, the levels are okay. However, if it's not, the transmission fluid is low and should be topped up. If the fluid is visibly dirty or dark in color, you should visit a mechanic so that they can flush the system and put in fresh fluid.

Don't overload the vehicle

Using your car to carry loads that are beyond its limit is one of the sure ways of causing transmission problems. Excess weight puts stress on the transmission system as it tries to transmit enough power to the wheels. When this happens, its components may undergo premature wear or fail entirely. Avoid this by carrying weights are within your car's load limit. Do not use the vehicle to tow if it cannot handle the weight of another vehicle.

Service as required

Regular servicing is critical to maintaining a healthy vehicle and prolonging the life of its components. Be faithful to the monthly, semi-annual, and annual servicing requirements of the car. During the monthly service, you should have the transmission fluid topped up and the components inspected for wear and tear. The car's oil levels, wheel alignment, and steering system should also be checked. Remember, a properly functioning transmission is not all you need to keep your car running optimally. All the other parts should be in proper condition as well.

Contact an auto mechanic if you notice any issues with your transmission. Prompt repairs can save you from dealing with multiple failed components and incurring huge costs for replacement parts. For more information, contact an audi transmission service.