Things You’re Doing That Are Slowly Breaking Your Transmission

Your vehicle’s transmission is one of the most essential — and expensive — components of your car. Whether automatic or manual, it plays a vital role in shifting gears and transferring power from the engine to the wheels. But did you know that many common driving habits can cause serious damage to your transmission over time?

Neglecting Transmission Fluid Changes

Just like engine oil, your transmission fluid needs to be checked and changed regularly. Over time, this fluid breaks down, gets dirty, and loses its effectiveness, causing increased friction and heat — two things that can seriously wear out your transmission.

What to do instead: Check your transmission fluid level and condition every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or as recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer.

Driving With Low or Dirty Transmission Fluid

Running your vehicle with low or contaminated transmission fluid can cause gears to slip or grind. The transmission needs proper lubrication to operate smoothly and stay cool.

What to do instead: If you notice delayed shifting, strange noises, or fluid leaks, have your transmission inspected immediately.

Towing Heavy Loads in Overdrive

If you're hauling a trailer or carrying a heavy load, using overdrive can stress your transmission, especially on hills or during stop-and-go driving.

What to do instead: Switch off overdrive when towing or climbing steep inclines. Use tow/haul mode if your vehicle has one.

Shifting Gears While the Car Is Moving

Throwing your car from “Drive” to “Reverse” (or vice versa) while it’s still rolling is a fast track to transmission damage. This can wear out gear synchronizers and cause internal damage.

What to do instead: Come to a complete stop before changing between gears.

Riding the Brakes on Hills

Keeping your foot on the brake while going downhill can cause overheating — and in vehicles with automatic transmissions, it can also overwork the system by keeping the car in a lower gear longer than necessary.

What to do instead: Use lower gears or engine braking when descending hills, and avoid riding the brakes.

Aggressive Driving and Sudden Stops

Fast acceleration, abrupt braking, and aggressive gear shifting can stress your transmission and lead to premature wear and tear.

What to do instead: Drive smoothly. Gradual acceleration and deceleration not only protect your transmission but also improve fuel efficiency.

Ignoring Warning Signs

If your car is showing signs like slipping gears, burning smells, delayed acceleration, or strange noises while shifting — don’t ignore them. These can be early warnings of transmission trouble.

What to do instead: Get your car checked by a trusted mechanic or transmission specialist as soon as you notice something unusual.

Using the Wrong Transmission Fluid

Not all transmission fluids are the same. Using the wrong type can cause poor performance, overheating, or even complete transmission failure.

What to do instead: Always use the type of transmission fluid specified in your owner's manual or recommended by your manufacturer.

Letting Your Car Overheat

Excessive engine heat can impact your transmission fluid, breaking it down faster and causing internal damage.

What to do instead: Keep your cooling system in good condition, especially in warm climates or when towing.

Not Warming Up Your Car in Cold Weather

In very cold temperatures, transmission fluid thickens and doesn’t lubricate as well. Jumping into gear immediately can strain your system.

What to do instead: Let your engine idle for a minute or two before driving in freezing weather. Drive gently until the car warms up.