3 Key Factors Affecting Your Automatic Transmission Service Frequency

If you want to cover more miles with your car, regularly servicing its automatic transmission is paramount. A well-maintained transmission system might surprisingly outlast the rest of your car, keeping the vehicle running longer and preventing costly repairs. Sadly, most car owners don't understand the basics of automatic transmission servicing and maintenance. 

Unlike a vehicle's engine consisting of several serviceable components, the transmission system contains only two critical parts you should consider. They include the fluid and filter. The complexity level and skills needed to service these parts might vary depending on different vehicles, as can the service interval. Read on to learn more about three crucial factors determining your automatic transmission service intervals. 

The Manufacturer's Recommendations

All vehicles come with an owner's manual specifying the required servicing intervals. Often, car manufacturers offer specific guidelines regarding oil changes, filter replacements, transmission fluid changes, etc. Therefore, it's prudent to adhere to these recommendations at appropriate intervals as required. 

However, some manufacturers might fail to provide essential guidelines regarding their lifetime transmission fluids. Indeed, lifetime transmission fluids are long-lasting but might fail to offer sufficient lubrication and system cooling over time as your car shifts into a six-figure mileage range. Therefore, consult professional transmission service providers to determine the appropriate replacement interval for lifetime transmission fluids. 

The Vehicle's Usage Requirements 

Like any other part of your car, how you utilise the transmission system determines how often it might require servicing. While the transmission fluid is critical in cooling the transmission system, the extreme temperature might result in faster degradation. Additionally, overworking the vehicle, including heavy towing, might cause overheating and weakening of the transmission system.  

Therefore, consider using regular filters and transmission fluid changes if your usage is higher. Check your car owner's manual for possible recommendations on severe servicing appointments. Furthermore, consult transmission service experts for advice on the best action. 

The Vehicle's Age

Older car models will probably demand more maintenance than newer types. As your car's transmission mounts for each mile covered, internal components begin degrading and releasing more particulate matter into the transmission fluid. These particles might decrease lubrication and heighten friction. Consequently, this causes the transmission fluid to degrade faster than when you first bought the vehicle. 

Therefore, consider shortening the automatic transmission service intervals once the car outlives its warranty. Regular transmission servicing helps ensure your transmission fluid remains fresh, keeping the system in proper working condition for longer. 

For more information, contact an automatic transmission service near you.