5 Things That Can Trash Your Automatic Transmission

Automatic transmissions are designed to be highly robust and durable, but they can also prove to be quite fragile if they're not properly cared for. The following takes a look at 5 common reasons your automatic transmission could potentially live a short life if you're not careful.

No Fluid Changes

Your transmission fluid isn't designed to last forever. Over time, the various additives and friction modifiers found within transmission fluid will eventually wear out. When it finally loses its lubrication properties, it's only a matter of time before your vehicle begins to exhibit slippage and other transmission problems.

Recommended service intervals for transmission changes usually vary among automotive manufacturers. The general consensus is that you should have your automatic transmission fluid changed every 30,000 miles, although many manufacturers tend to stretch their service intervals to as long as 100,000 miles in between changes.

Incorrect Transmission Fluid Levels

Having too little or too much automatic transmission fluid can be just as bad as not having it changed. Automatic transmissions are designed to operate with a specific amount of transmission fluid – too much fluid can cause damage to the seals and solenoids within, while too little fluid can wear out clutches, gears and other internal components.

For this reason, most vehicles offer a dipstick with which you can check your transmission fluid. It's a good idea to check the fluid level whenever you check the engine oil and other areas of your vehicle. If it has too much or too little fluid, a trip to your local service center may be in order.

Using the Wrong Fluid

Your automatic transmission is designed to use specific fluids as specified by your vehicle's manufacturer. There are plenty of automatic transmission fluid types currently on the market and each blend offers its own recipe of additives, lubricants and friction modifiers. Using the wrong type of fluid for your vehicle could cause severe damage to your transmission, since it is designed to work only with a particular type of fluid.

Towing in Excess of Your Car's Capabilities

Towing hundreds or even thousands of pounds behind your vehicle can bring your transmission to its breaking point. This is because the extra work generates excess heat, which can take a toll on your fluid's overall longevity. Towing in excess of your vehicle's recommended tow rating also adds additional stress to the torque converter, constant velocity drive axles and other driveline components.

Harsh Starts and Stops

Over time, harsh acceleration and deceleration can cause harsher, less precise gear changes, as well as other long-term damage to your automatic transmission. When it comes to taking care of your transmission, smooth and steady always wins out. Adopting a smoother and slightly more sedate driving style can save your transmission a lot of wear and tear over its lifetime.

For more information, contact a local transmission mechanic (such as Unlimited Service).