A logo for kenny 's transmission with two gears

Common Ways that Drivers Increase The Risk of Serious Transmission Trouble

Kenny’s Transmission • 10 July 2024

When transmission issues arise, they can become quite expensive to take care of. For this reason, it’s worth taking some basic precautions that reduce the risk of transmission problems developing and escalating. One simple thing you can do is make sure you stay up to date with basic transmission maintenance. At Kenny’s Transmission, we provide expert transmission service in the greater Indianapolis area. Here’s a look at five common ways that drivers cause transmission problems. 


Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance, including transmission fluid checks and changes, is essential. As the miles add up, transmission fluid can degrade, losing its lubricating and cooling properties. Neglecting fluid changes can lead to increased friction and overheating, causing premature wear and potential failure of transmission components.


Riding the Clutch

For drivers of manual transmission vehicles, "riding the clutch" occurs when the clutch pedal is partially engaged for extended periods, such as in heavy traffic or on hills. This can cause excessive friction between the clutch components, leading to accelerated wear.


Ignoring Signs of Transmission Trouble

Transmissions often provide early warning signs of impending issues, such as slipping gears, delayed engagement, fluid leaks, and unusual noises like whining or grinding. Ignoring these symptoms and continuing to drive can worsen the problem, potentially leading to more extensive and costly repairs.


Towing Beyond Capacity

Towing a trailer or heavy load that exceeds your vehicle's towing capacity puts immense strain on the transmission. This strain can cause overheating, fluid breakdown, and increased wear on transmission components. Always adhere to your vehicle's towing capacity guidelines to help avoid transmission damage and other problems.


Aggressive Driving

Frequent hard acceleration, abrupt braking, and aggressive driving behaviors can stress the transmission. Rapid shifts between gears and sudden changes in speed cause increased friction and heat, which can wear down transmission components prematurely.


Transmission Service in Greenwood, IN

For transmission service in Greenwood, IN and the surrounding area, contact Kenny’s Transmission at (317) 762-0389. We can expertly address your transmission repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

Share by: