A healthy transmission is vital for ensuring smooth shifting and power delivery. However, certain driving habits can lead to premature wear and costly repairs. Here’s a look at five bad driving habits that can cause transmission problems.

Ignoring Regular Maintenance

Skipping regular maintenance, such as fluid changes and inspections, can significantly harm your transmission. Transmission fluid lubricates and cools the transmission, preventing overheating and wear. As it ages, the fluid can degrade, becoming less effective. Failing to replace it can lead to friction, overheating, and potentially, transmission failure. Follow your vehicle manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule to keep your transmission in top condition.

Riding the Clutch

For drivers of manual transmissions, riding the clutch is a common bad habit. This occurs when you rest your foot on the clutch pedal, even slightly, while driving. This causes unnecessary friction and wear on the clutch components, increasing the risk of premature failure. Make a habit of fully engaging or disengaging the clutch and avoid resting your foot on the pedal when not shifting.

Shifting Gears Improperly

Shifting gears improperly, such as shifting from reverse to drive without stopping or abruptly changing gears, can put excessive strain on your transmission. This can cause internal damage and reduce the lifespan of the transmission components. 

Overloading Your Vehicle

Overloading your vehicle beyond its recommended capacity puts extra stress on the transmission. This is especially true for towing heavy loads or carrying excessive weight in the vehicle. The added strain can cause overheating and increase wear and tear on the transmission. Be mindful of your vehicle's load limits and avoid exceeding them to help protect your transmission.

Driving Aggressively

Aggressive driving habits—such as rapid acceleration, sudden braking, and hard shifting—can cause significant damage to your transmission. These actions generate excessive heat and pressure, leading to increased wear and potential failure of transmission components.

Transmission Service in Lodi, CA

When you need  transmission service in Lodi  and the surrounding area, contact Lodi Transmissions at (209) 732-8819. At our local transmission shop, we can expertly handle your car’s transmission repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to  make an appointment!