Transmissions are complex pieces of equipment. Systems and components rely heavily on one another, and everything needs to be in working order for proper function. When one thing fails, there’s a snowball effect, and malfunctions and damages begin to occur. What can you do to make sure you keep it working? At Harold's Used Auto Parts Inc in Philadelphia, PA, we want to help when you need it, but we also want to teach you how to maintain your vehicle on your own. Good maintenance is the single largest contributing factor to how long your transmission will last and how well it will continue to work. Here are a few key points on maintenance from the Harold's Used Auto Parts Inc technicians.

Fluid Flushes - Flushing your fluid at regular intervals rids your transmission of contamination and debris. Fluid flushes are an integral aspect of keeping your transmission going strong and shifting smooth. It should be changed when the time comes whether it looks like it needs it or not. It's often overlooked until it's too late. If it’s the wrong color, looks contaminated, or smells burnt, get it done immediately. Deciding whether to flush or change your fluids is an important choice. A flush uses a professional machine to flush all the transmission fluid from your car, truck or SUV, and it also removes some of the contaminants from the torque converter and cooler lines. The technicians run a solution through the lines until they are completely clean, and then they refill your system with fluid. The fluid change only uses gravity to drain between 20 to 40% of the fluid volume. It doesn't flush out the contaminants, but it will add some new fluid to the system.

Filter Changes - Typically, the filter will be changed with the fluid. Filters clog up with debris over time, which restricts the flow of fluid and increases the chance of contamination throughout the transmission. If your transmission is acting up, a filter and fluid flush is a good place to start. If you decide not to do it with your fluid changes, keep your eyes and nose open for dark-colored or burnt smelling fluid. These are usually indications that it's time to change your fluid and the filter. Another indicator is if your transmission starts to behave strangely. If there are unusual noises or strange gearshifts, this can be a sign that it's time to replace the fluid and filter. Immediate Repair If your transmission is shifting incorrectly or behaving irregularly, get the problem diagnosed and taken care of as soon as possible. Since all your transmission components are so reliant on one another, it often doesn’t take anything more than a bad sensor or misadjusted cable or linkage to completely ruin an otherwise good transmission in short order.

Get issues taken care of as soon as they arise. Waiting can become a costly mistake, going from replacing a small part to replacing an entire system. No matter your repair or maintenance needs, our technicians are ready to help. For the best transmission service shop in Philadelphia, PA, call or stop by Harold's Used Auto Parts Inc today.