Is Your Transmission Ready For The Dog Days Of Summer?

Summer has officially arrived in Des Moines and here at All Drive our hope is that you are living easy. It’s the time of year for barbecues, swimming pools and family vacations. The heat makes sitting by a lake or pool the perfect place to be, but it takes a toll on your vehicle’s engine and transmission. In honor of summer’s arrival here are a few tips to help your vehicle enjoy the season as much as you do.

Double-check the transmission fluid.
Seems obvious but fluid level and type are two simple items on the maintenance checklist that drivers often overlook. The fluid in your transmission is essential for brake band friction, gear lubrication, torque converter function and valve operation. Levels can be checked by simply dipping a clean oil stick for a reading. Make sure to smell the fluid to ensure it’s clean and crisp – a rotten fish smells means a trip to your transmission shop is needed. Utilizing the correct transmission fluid is also very important so review your manual to clarify the type of fluid needed. Additionally, the transmission fluid should be flushed at least once a year.

Change your transmission’s filter.
Most transmissions feature some type of filter, especially in the older models. For optimal performance it is recommended that this filter be replaced annually or when the fluid is flushed.

Test the transmission each year.
Testing your transmission annually helps to avoid unknown issues that can lead to bigger (and more expensive) problems. Small leaks and other problems that are ignored will lead to unnecessary stress on the transmission and ultimately the need for a complete rebuild or replacement.

Maintain your engine’s cooling system.
Transmission fluid must be cooled in order to properly flow through the gearbox. An overheating engine will impair this process and put added stress on the transmission leading to unwanted wear and tear.

Other general auto maintenance.
To keep your car running efficiently this summer it’s important to keep up on battery checks, oil changes, tire rotation and regular tune-ups. Most parts under the hood operate in unison so a single issue can lead to bigger problems throughout the engine and transmission.

All Drive Transmission can help to keep your transmission in top condition. If your car, truck, SUV or van needs a tune up before your summer road trip then stop by the shop or give us a call today at (515) 274-0551! We look forward to meeting you.