According to the Transmission Repair Cost Guide, vehicle owners should check their automatic transmission fluids every two to four weeks. Proper transmission service is an important part of good vehicle maintenance. If you're not sure if it's time for a transmission service appointment for your vehicle, it's best to err on the side of caution. With proper care and maintenance, regular transmission service appointments should keep your car running well.

1. Low Transmission Fluid Levels

Most vehicle owners check their oil levels on a regular basis. Unfortunately, the same can't be said for the frequency with which they're checking their transmission fluid. If you're driving with low fluid levels, your engine or transmission can be damaged. Many newer model cars don't have an obvious way to check transmission levels. Not sure how the levels are checked on your vehicle? Be sure to ask your mechanic at your next tune-up.

2. Frequent Towing

Do you have a boat, trailer, or another heavy load that you're towing on a regular basis? Towing heavy objects can cause damage to your transmission. To avoid damage from towing, be sure to keep any loads significantly below the maximum towing weight. Towing more than the maximum load can cause serious damage to your vehicle, so it's a practice you should avoid. Car owners who tow heavy loads regularly should be sure to have their transmission and other fluid levels checked frequently. If you're using your hitch regularly, remember that any kind of towing causes wear and tear on your vehicle, so be sure that you're following all the recommended maintenance guidelines for your vehicle.

3. High Engine Temperatures

If you're like most people, you might have ignored your check engine light or other warning lights longer than you should have. The same is often the case with your engine temperature reading. If you're not used to paying attention to your indicators and warning lights, now is the time to start. Your engine and transmission work closely together, and if your engine's running too hot, it can cause damage to a variety of systems your vehicle relies on, including your transmission. Warning lights shouldn't be ignored, and when your engine's running too hot, it's a smart idea to pull over and call for roadside assistance.

If your vehicle's in need of a transmission service, schedule an appointment with our team at Shift Right Transmissions & Auto Repair. We're a full-service auto and transmission shop, so no matter what your vehicle needs, we have it covered. We look forward to working with you soon!