1. Check transmission fluid regularly and properly. (See Owner’s Manual for Details)
2. Check transmission fluid after running hot. Stop and go traffic, hilly terrain, hot weather, or towing can build up excess transmission heat causing fluid to be lost, damaged, or both. Check it no later than your next stop for gasoline.
3. Install an external cooler in high stress conditions. Towing a trailer, hauling heavy loads, or being stuck in traffic often creates excessive transmission heat. An external transmission cooler will help to bring the temperature down to normal operating level adding significantly to the life of the transmission.
4. Change transmission fluid more often in high stress conditions. Transmission fluid cools, cleans, and lubricates the internal transmission parts while providing the hydraulic pressure to make all of the components work together. When the fluid loses its ability to perform those tasks efficiently trouble can’t be far away. Any of the conditions in items 2 & 3 above will shorten the effective life of transmission fluid. In those cases, change the fluid a minimum of twice a year (unless otherwise specified in the owners manual).
5. Check any malfunctions promptly. Repair bills tend to rise in proportion to mileage driven after the first signs of trouble. The longer you drive with a malfunctioning transmission, the more damage you may cause, and the more money it may cost you.
6. Have the transmission linkage and other adjustments checked periodically. Especially after the vehicle has been in an accident or has had any major engine work performed.
7. Keep your engine properly tuned. A poor running engine can, at times, display symptoms similar to a transmission problem.
8. Have other drivetrain components that may affect transmission function checked regularly. Driveshafts and their universal joints, driveaxles and their constant velocity joints, engine flywheels or flexplates, computer system and sensors, radiator and cooling lines to the transmission, engine and transmission mountings can cause problems.
9. Have your vehicle’s cooling system checked twice a year for leaks, proper coolant level and strength. Antifreeze can deteriorate over time causing it to become ineffective creating overheating or freeze-up conditions.
10. Take your vehicle for a complete physical check up at least once a year. This should include all safety components such as lights, brakes and steering. Remember that a poor running engine or certain transmission problems can be a safety hazard.
Finally, don't hesitate to drop us a line! With ASE certified technicians, more than 100 combined years of experience, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, Willow Creek Transmissions has earned the trust of hundreds of satisfied customers through hard work and honesty. Contact Willow Creek Transmissions today for more information.
Originally from RenoTransmission.com