Do You Really Need Transmission Servicing? (Hint: Probably Yes)

If you're like most drivers, you might not give your car’s transmission much thought - until something goes wrong. But your vehicle’s transmission is one of its most critical components, and keeping it in good condition is essential for a smooth, safe, and reliable driving experience.

What Is a Transmission?

The transmission is essentially your car’s gearbox. It transfers power from the engine to the wheels, allowing your vehicle to move at different speeds. Whether your car is an automatic or a manual, it relies on the transmission to function properly.

Without a healthy transmission, you could experience:

• Jerky gear changes

• Slipping between gears

• Loss of power

• Complete breakdown

  
  

And once the transmission fails, it’s not a cheap fix - often costing thousands of pounds.

Does My Car Need Transmission Servicing?

In many cases, yes. While some newer vehicles come with "lifetime" transmission fluid (a bit misleading, as no fluid lasts forever), many cars do require periodic servicing, especially those that:

• Do a lot of short trips or stop-start driving

• Tow heavy loads

• Are used for deliveries, fleet work or as a taxi

• Have higher mileage

Automatic and dual-clutch transmissions in particular benefit from regular fluid changes to reduce wear and prevent costly damage.

What Does Transmission Servicing Involve?

Transmission servicing may include:

• Draining and replacing transmission fluid

• Cleaning or replacing the filter

• Checking for leaks

• Inspecting for wear and tear

Clean transmission fluid helps your gearbox shift smoothly and protects internal components from damage. Over time, this fluid degrades, picks up debris, and loses its effectiveness - just like engine oil.

Why Most Drivers Miss It

Transmission servicing often isn’t mentioned during regular services unless you ask about it. It’s not part of every vehicle’s fixed service schedule, and it varies depending on the manufacturer. Some garages skip it altogether unless there's a specific complaint.

That’s why it’s a good idea to ask your local garage to check whether your vehicle has a recommended transmission service interval - especially if you’ve never had it done and your car’s done more than 40,000 miles.

How Often Should It Be Done?

It depends on the make and model of your vehicle, but generally:

• Automatic transmission servicing is recommended every 40,000 to 60,000 miles

• Manual gearboxes need less frequent attention, but still benefit from checks and fluid changes

Always refer to your vehicle handbook - or ask a trusted garage to check for you.

The Bottom Line: Don’t Ignore It

Your transmission is one of the most expensive systems in your vehicle to replace or repair. By staying on top of transmission servicing, you’re saving yourself from future headaches - and potentially thousands in repair bills.

Not sure if your car needs a transmission service? Pop in or give us a call - we’ll happily check and advise you based on your vehicle type and mileage.

Call us on 01636 550852 or email, info@pwautorepairsnewark.co.uk