What Dangers Await Your Automatic Transmission

Transmission troubles can start with overheating. Even under normal driving conditions, transmission fluids wear out and require replacement. Heavy vehicle loads, towing trailers, stop and go traffic and hot weather accelerate fluid breakdown caused by higher transmission temperatures can also cause expensive parts to wear prematurely.

Checking fluid conditions can prevent failure. Your owner’s manual will tell you how often to change fluids, but checking fluid condition and the fluid level in your transmission is critical. Fluid that smells “burnt” or appears dark and dirty should be changed.

Be alert. Watch for leaks. Think about parking in a clean, dry space and check the area under your vehicle for fluid when leaving. You might just save yourself hundreds of dollars if you find and stop a fluid leak early.