Learn The Warning Signs Of Car Problems

Without a transmission in good repair, you'll end up with a truck that you can't drive. Replacing or rebuilding a truck transmission can be quite expensive, so your best bet is to properly maintain your truck's transmission in order to extend its lifespan. Avoid the following mistakes if you want to avoid costly transmission repairs:

Driving When You Notice Transmission Problems

Dealing with a transmission issue can be a hassle, but continuing to drive your truck when you notice that it is not shifting properly, or when it is buckling or shuddering during shifting, will only make the issue worse. If your truck is not driving like it used to, it is in your best interest to have a qualified mechanic take a look at your transmission as soon as possible. In many cases it is easier to make repairs to a truck transmission as soon as a problem is noticed; continuing to drive with a transmission in need of repair increases the odds that you'll have to replace your transmission.

Not Checking the Transmission Fluid Levels

You most likely wouldn't want to risk damaging your truck by driving it with low oil levels, and the same can be said when it comes to transmission fluid. It is essential to keep transmission fluid at the proper level to ensure that all transmission parts stay lubricated and are able to transmit power to the drive train. Checking the fluid level is easy for most people to do in their driveway or garage—just pull out the dipstick located in the transmission fluid reservoir. For best results, check the transmission fluid level while your truck is warm.

Skipping Transmission Services

Transmission services are not needed as frequently as oil changes, but it is vital to stick to the transmission service schedule recommended by your truck's manufacturer. As you put miles on your truck, the transmission fluid will get dirty, and the transmission filter can become clogged. Transmission services are so important to keeping a transmission in good working repair, as dirty fluid is removed and replaced with clean fluid and the filter is changed out as well. Regular transmission services according to schedule are one of the easiest ways to extend the life of your transmission. 

Not Maintaining Your Cooling System

Excessive heat is detrimental to your transmission, so it is imperative to keep your cooling system in good repair so your transmission does not get overheated. Make sure you get the coolant in your truck flushed according to schedule so your cooling system is able to keep your transmission at the proper temperature. 

For more tips on keeping your truck in good shape, contact a company like Color Country Diesel Inc.