What causes a transmission to break down?
Low automatic transmission fluid, one of the most common causes of a slipping transmission, reduces the hydraulic pressure necessary to properly shift. If there’s not enough fluid or it is starting to lose its effectiveness in lubricating and cooling, the transmission will perform poorly or stop working altogether.
What can cool down a transmission?
External Coolers Installing an external cooler can prove greatly effective in cooling your transmission and keeping it at a regulated temperature, which helps to prevent damage. External coolers also help to reduce friction to the transmission, which is another common cause of damage.
How does transmission fluid get contaminated?
The temperature of transmission fluid is regulated inside the engine cooling system. Engine coolant surrounds the tank to help keep the fluid inside at a constant temperature. Any rupture of the internal radiator tank can allow coolant to mix with, and contaminate transmission fluid.
What’s the best way to destroy your transmission?
The Best Ways to Destroy Your Transmission 1. Overheat your vehicle as often as possible. 2. Maintain improper fluid levels. 3. Never change the fluid. 4. Use the incorrect fluid type. 5. Drag race from light to light. 6. Always stop abruptly. 7. Leave the shift lever in park without the parking brake on. 8. Downshift to “brake” at traffic lights.
What happens if you let your transmission run out of fluid?
Doing so can damage your drive shafts and suspension, too. Too little or too much fluid – either will damage your transmission. Letting the transmission run out of fluid is a surefire way of causing some serious damage. That precious red fluid keeps the transmission’s internal parts lubricated and running together smoothly.
What kind of damage can a transmission do?
An automatic transmission is designed for rigid, linear operation. It might be full of fluid, but many of its parts consist of gears with teeth that will grind and be damaged if you force your transmission to change gears while moving. Doing so can damage your drive shafts and suspension, too.
How can over the counter additives damage your transmission?
Over the counter additives that are supposed to stop leaks or make the transmission shift better many times contain chemicals that may cause worn seals to swell. This can interfere with the function of these operating rubber parts and lead to severe damage. 14. Abuse the drivetrain.