## What Makes a Car Transmission Go Bad?
A transmission is a vital part of a car, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Without a properly functioning transmission, a car would not be able to move. There are many factors that can contribute to the failure of a transmission, some of which are more common than others.
### Common Causes of Transmission Failure
Lack of Maintenance: One of the most common causes of transmission failure is a lack of maintenance. Transmissions need to be serviced regularly, with the fluid being changed and the filter being replaced. If a transmission is not properly maintained, it can lead to wear and tear on the gears and other components, eventually leading to failure.
Overheating: Another common cause of transmission failure is overheating. When a transmission overheats, it can cause the fluid to break down and the gears to wear out prematurely. Overheating can be caused by a number of factors, including driving in stop-and-go traffic, towing heavy loads, or driving in hot weather.
Leaks: Leaks can also lead to transmission failure. If a transmission leaks fluid, it can cause the fluid level to drop, which can then lead to overheating and other problems. Leaks can occur in a number of places, including the seals, gaskets, and lines.
Wear and Tear: Over time, the gears and other components of a transmission will wear out. This is especially true if the transmission is not properly maintained. As the gears wear out, they can become damaged and cause the transmission to slip or fail.
Manufacturing Defects: In some cases, a transmission may fail due to a manufacturing defect. This is rare, but it can happen. If a transmission fails due to a manufacturing defect, it is typically covered under warranty.
### Signs of Transmission Failure
There are a number of signs that can indicate that a transmission is failing. These signs include:
Slipping: A transmission that is slipping will not engage properly, causing the car to hesitate or lurch when shifting gears.
Grinding: A grinding noise when shifting gears is a sign that the gears are damaged.
Leaking: A transmission that is leaking fluid will leave a puddle of fluid on the ground under the car.
Overheating: A transmission that is overheating will smell burnt and may also cause the car to stall.
Difficulty Shifting: A transmission that is difficult to shift may be a sign of a problem with the shift linkage or the clutch.
### How to Prevent Transmission Failure
There are a number of things that you can do to prevent transmission failure, including:
Following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule: The manufacturer’s maintenance schedule will specify how often the transmission fluid should be changed and the filter should be replaced. It is important to follow this schedule to keep your transmission in good working order.
Avoiding overheating: Avoid driving in stop-and-go traffic, towing heavy loads, or driving in hot weather if possible. If you must drive in these conditions, take breaks to allow the transmission to cool down.
Fixing leaks: If you notice a leak in your transmission, have it repaired as soon as possible. Leaks can lead to overheating and other problems, so it is important to fix them promptly.
Driving carefully: Avoid aggressive driving habits, such as hard acceleration and braking. This can put unnecessary stress on the transmission and lead to premature failure.
### Conclusion
Transmission failure can be a costly and inconvenient problem. By following the tips in this article, you can help to prevent transmission failure and keep your car running smoothly.