Southwest Gear, Inc.

11/18/2021

Spare tires are meant for temporary use only. If you blow a tire and need to use your spare one, take your car straight to a mechanic or tire shop to get a permanent replacement. Driving for a prolonged period of time on a spare tire can put strain on the transmission due to the tire’s smaller size relative to your three functional tires.

11/18/2021

Many drivers shift their cars into park when parking and don’t use the emergency brake. But the hand brake isn’t just for emergencies; it’s meant to be used when parked as well. It’s especially important to use use your parking brake when parking on an incline; failure to do so can mean extra strain on your car’s transmission.

11/17/2021

11/17/2021

t’s a good idea to let your engine warm up gradually on a cold day. It can take a couple of miles for for your transmission to warm up, especially in the winter months. Newer cars are less likely to have issues warming up quickly, so even 30 seconds of idling before you drive your car can help.

11/17/2021

Shifting from reverse gear to drive in an automatic can put unnecessary strain on the transmission, which could equal a shorter lifespan. Instead, make sure you come to a complete stop before shifting from reverse to drive.

11/16/2021

Your engine’s cooling system helps make sure your transmission fluid is cooled as well as your engine. Have your mechanic check your cooling system at least every couple of years (or more if you think you have an overheating problem). Maintenance should include changing the coolant, looking for leaks and other damage, changing the hoses, and testing the radiator cap pressure.

11/16/2021

Just like with engine oil, there are different types of transmission fluid. Before replacing or topping up yours, consult your owner’s manual to make sure you purchase the correct fluid type. An even more foolproof way to ensure you use the right fluid is to use a car dealership service center that’s factory trained on repairing and servicing your make and model.

11/15/2021

Your car owner’s manual will specify how often your transmission fluid should be changed, but it’s typically every 100,000 miles. This service involves draining the old fluid, changing the filter, cleaning the transmission pan, and adding new transmission fluid to the car. Unless you’re experienced with DIY car service at home, it’s a good idea to have a professional take care of this for you.

11/15/2021

It’s a good idea to check your transmission fluid on a regular basis. Many avoidable transmission problems are caused by low fluid levels or dirty transmission fluid. A low level of the fluid can cause your car to overheat. Checking the fluid once a month or so means you can address any leaks or other issues before they become a more major problem.

11/11/2021

When operating a vehicle with a load or town driving, put the transmission in drive selection.

Do not put the transmission in overdrive. Putting the transmission in overdrive during town driving or when the vehicle is overloaded puts too much stress onto the gears and internal clutches, causing slippage.