Yearly Archives: 2025

How to Avoid Transmission Overheating on Your Fall Camping Trip

How to Avoid Transmission Overheating on Your Fall Camping Trip

A weekend camping trip sounds relaxing, but if you’re towing a trailer, driving up steep hills, or spending time in stop-and-go traffic, your transmission might not be having such a good time. Fall temperatures may feel mild, but transmission heat builds quickly under load, especially when your vehicle is working harder than usual. Without proper maintenance and preparation, a scenic fall getaway could end with a breakdown on the side of the road. Whether you’re driving an SUV, truck, or crossover, knowing how to protect your transmission during demanding trips is key to keeping it running smoothly long after the campfire goes out. The Role of Transmission Fluid in Temperature Control Transmission fluid does more than lubricate moving parts. It also cools the transmission by carrying heat away from internal components. When fluid gets old or low, it loses its ability to manage heat. That makes it more likely your transmission will overheat when under str ... read more

When Rough Shifts Point to Torque Converter Trouble

When Rough Shifts Point to Torque Converter Trouble

Smooth shifting is something most drivers take for granted, until it isn’t. If your vehicle hesitates, jerks, or vibrates when changing gears, there could be a problem within your automatic transmission system. One of the most overlooked yet critical components affecting shift quality is the torque converter. When it starts failing, rough shifts are often one of the first warning signs. We’ll explain how the torque converter works, the symptoms of failure, and why addressing the issue early can save you from costly repairs. What Does the Torque Converter Do In an automatic transmission, the torque converter plays a crucial role in transferring engine power to the transmission smoothly. It acts like a fluid coupling between the engine and the transmission, allowing your vehicle to idle while in gear and providing seamless acceleration. Inside the converter are several components, including the impeller, turbine, stator, and lockup clutch, all working tog ... read more

6 Things That Can Kill a Transmission Before 100K Miles

6 Things That Can Kill a Transmission Before 100K Miles

Your transmission is one of the most important and expensive components in your vehicle. It’s responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, allowing your car to shift gears and respond smoothly to acceleration. But even the best transmission won’t last forever, especially if it’s neglected. With proper care, transmissions will go well beyond 100,000 miles. However, certain habits and oversights can lead to early failure. Let’s explore six key factors that can damage your transmission and what you can do to avoid them. 1. Ignoring Transmission Fluid Health Transmission fluid is essential for lubricating gears, cooling components, and maintaining smooth operation. Over time, it breaks down due to heat and friction. If it becomes too dirty or low, your transmission won’t be protected, and wear will accelerate. Signs of poor fluid health include slipping gears, delayed shifts, or a burnt smell. If your fluid looks dark ... read more

What’s That Burning Smell When My Car Changes Gears?

What’s That Burning Smell When My Car Changes Gears?

A burning smell coming from your car is never a good sign, especially when it happens as your vehicle changes gears. This alarming odor can indicate serious issues that, if left unchecked, may lead to costly repairs or even total transmission failure. Understanding the possible causes and knowing what to do next can help keep your car running smoothly and prevent unexpected breakdowns. Why Your Car's Transmission Is So Important Your car’s transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. It allows your vehicle to change gears smoothly and maintain the right speed and power balance. A well-functioning transmission keeps your car driving comfortably and efficiently, while a failing one can lead to jerky movements, poor acceleration, and eventually leave you stranded. What Causes a Burning Smell If you notice a burning smell when your car shifts gears, it often points to overheating transmission fluid. Transm ... read more

The Pros and Cons of Driving a Car with a CVT Transmission

The Pros and Cons of Driving a Car with a CVT Transmission

CVT, or continuously variable transmission, has become increasingly common in modern vehicles. Automakers often promote it as a smoother, more fuel-efficient alternative to traditional automatic transmissions. But while a CVT offers some clear benefits, it also comes with a few compromises that drivers should understand before deciding if it's the right fit. Here’s a look at how CVTs work, what sets them apart from standard automatics, and the pros and cons of owning a vehicle equipped with one. What Is a CVT Transmission Unlike a traditional automatic that shifts between a set number of gears, a CVT uses a system of pulleys and a steel belt to provide a seamless range of gear ratios. This design enables the engine to operate within its optimal power range more consistently, resulting in improved efficiency and a smoother driving experience. Since there are no hard gear shifts, the driving feel is different, especially during acceleration. It might take s ... read more

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