ProTech Automotive Tech Question:
My name is Suzanne. We were taking a camping trip at our favorite state park over a three day weekend. About half way to our campsite, the transmission went out on our minivan. It took all weekend to get towed out and get back home.
What can I do to prevent transmission problems in the future?
ProTech Automotive Answer:
Transmission repairs can be expensive at auto service centers. On top of that poor Suzanne was in the backcountry. Her vacation weekend turned into three days of car repairs.
Look, minivan transmissions are tough and durable. All you have to do to maintain them is replace the fluid on schedule. The fluid gets contaminated with bits of clutch plates and metal. Dirty transmission fluid under pressure acts like liquid sandpaper, eating away at important gaskets and seals. Then your transmission doesn’t shift as well. It can start to leak and overheat. And then you could end up like Suzanne.
Another thing: if you carry heavy loads or tow a trailer on highways, your transmission is working much harder and running hotter than under normal conditions. Your transmission fluid may need to be changed sooner. Check your minivan owner’s manual for your severe service schedule or talk with your appreciative ProTech Automotive service specialist about when you should have your transmission serviced.
Middletown auto owners who do a lot of towing may want to consider adding an external transmission cooler to reduce transmission operating temperatures and extend its life.
Give us a call
ProTech Automotive
690 South Main Street
Middletown, CT 06457
860.343.0000
http://www.protectyourcars.com/
ProTech Automotive & Tire
1611 Portland-Cobalt Road
Portland, CT 06480
860.342.4444
http://www.protectyourcars.com/
