How Long is the Lifespan of a Car's Automatic Transmission? This is the Ideal.
For those of you who often drive automatic cars, do you know what the lifespan of an automatic car transmission is? If not, check out the discussion below until the end.
Speaking of automatic cars, they certainly have their own advantages and disadvantages. Behind their ease of use due to having an automatic transmission, also known as a transmission without using a clutch pedal.
In addition, automatic cars also have a smooth pull when driven. Behind these advantages, there is also a disadvantage, which is that the lifespan of an automatic car transmission is claimed to be shorter than that of a manual transmission.
So, what is the ideal lifespan of an automatic transmission? Can the lifespan of an automatic transmission be extended? Let's take a look at the following review.
Ideal Lifespan of an Automatic Car Transmission
How long is the lifespan of an automatic transmission?
Ideally, the lifespan of an automatic car transmission can reach a mileage of 300,000 km or equivalent to 5 to 7 years.
However, you can also extend or shorten the lifespan of an automatic transmission. This can happen depending on how you maintain it and how you drive the car.
Read Also: 6 Ways to Repair a Broken Automatic Car Transmission
Factors That Can Shorten the Lifespan of an Automatic Transmission
Here are the steps you should take to maintain and extend the lifespan of your automatic car transmission, as well as what you should avoid.
1. Delayed Transmission Oil Change
The main cause of automatic transmission system failure is the delayed replacement of transmission oil, running out of transmission oil, or oil that does not meet the manufacturer's specifications.
2. Presence of Leaks
One of the signs of a problematic automatic car is indicated by the presence of oil leaks. Make sure you always check the automatic oil volume by monitoring the dipstick, ensure that the oil is not less or empty, as it can damage the automatic transmission.
3. Driving Style Too Often Kickdown or Engine Brake
Make sure when you want to do an engine brake or kickdown on an automatic car it is according to need. If not, your automatic car will quickly break down and often have problems.
4. Incorrect Placement of the Automatic Transmission Lever
Make sure you use the transmission lever according to the instructions, for example when you want to go uphill or downhill, make sure to use the L lever and do not position the lever in D, because if not placed correctly, it will cause the transmission to break down quickly.
Tips to Extend the Lifespan of an Automatic Car Transmission
Many people wonder, is it true that automatic cars break down quickly? Of course, it depends on the maintenance performed by the owner of the automatic car.
To maintain and extend the lifespan of your automatic car transmission, you can do the following things.
1. Pay Attention to Driving Style
Make sure you are not aggressive when accelerating, and not aggressive when using features like tiptronic. Give a pause when shifting the lever from L to D for about 1-2 seconds.
When you want to stop on an incline, make sure you use the hand brake or control features like hill assist control, and avoid passing through routes with many inclines to keep the transmission durable.
2. Regular Servicing
It is advisable to service your car at an official workshop for the automatic transmission regularly. As you know, transmission damage is usually caused by running out of oil in the transmission.
It is advisable to change the transmission oil regularly with a mileage of every 30,000 km increments.
However, if you live in an area that is prone to traffic jams, heat, or dust, it is better to change the transmission oil sooner than the specified mileage.
3. If There Are Signs of Transmission Damage, Immediately Take It to an Official Workshop
Transmission damage is usually indicated by occurrences such as:
- Strange sounds or noises when you are shifting the transmission lever.
- Sudden increase in fuel consumption.
- Throttle feels heavier when driven.
- Throttle often stutters.
- The car vibrates when driven.
If you encounter these signs, it is best to consult with an expert technician from an official workshop to help address your concerns.
4. Perform Maintenance According to the Manual
Every car must have a maintenance manual issued by the car manufacturer. It is advisable to perform periodic maintenance according to the recommendations and rules in that manual.
These are the steps you can try to extend the lifespan of your automatic car transmission so that it can reach the ideal lifespan or even more.
If your automatic car transmission shows signs of damage, you can take it to the nearest Daihatsu workshop for the best handling.