Help Your Transmission Make It Through the Summer Road Trip
Your car's transmission is a key part of its ability to operate, and yet, many car owners tend to overlook it when compared with something like the tires or the engine oil. If you will be putting some extra miles on your vehicle this summer, make sure your transmission will be up to the task. Here are some tips to keep in mind before and during your summer road trip.
Get an Inspection First
The last thing you want to happen during your summer joyride is for the vehicle to suddenly break down. If you suspect you might need some maintenance before you hit the road, take your vehicle to an auto repair or transmission shop to get it looked at. You'll then be able to hit the gas pedal with confidence that your car is ready for the journey ahead. Even if you are not planning a summer road trip, an annual visit to a transmission shop is always a good idea.
No Sudden Motions
An automatic transmission will shift gears for you as you speed up and slow down during your trip. But speeding up and slowing down dramatically or too often can put needless wear and tear on your transmission. Just because it's supposed to be a fun road trip does not mean you have to slam the gas pedal to the ground every time the light turns green.
Plan Out Your Trip in Advance and Take the Easier Route
While sometimes it's fun to take the road less traveled, this is exactly this kind of road that can sometimes wreak havoc on your transmission. Any kind of route that features rolling hills or other terrain that will constantly cause your vehicle to have to slow down and then regain speed is not a great choice for your transmission's longevity. Sticking to major highways may be a bit boring, but your vehicle will thank you by, hopefully, keeping you out of the repair shop for a good long time.
Summer is the perfect time of the year to climb into your favorite vehicle and hit the road with family and friends. But all of this extra driving can put extra strain on your transmission and other car parts if you're not careful. Try to take it easy while driving this summer and avoid sudden changes in your speed. For best results, get your car inspected at a local transmission shop before you head out for your latest adventure.