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Kia Transmission Care: Ensuring Smooth and Efficient Performance

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A transmission service means having a licensed mechanic service the system that allows you to change gears. Manual and automatic transmissions need regular maintenance and repairs. With frequent inspections, the vehicle will be able to accelerate. Discover the benefits of maintaining your transmission from your Temple Hills, MD, Kia dealer. 

What to Know About Transmission Service from Your Local Kia Dealer

When you bring your Kia into the shop, a mechanic inspects the drivetrain for structural damage. They examine the gear shaft, clutch, and belts that help regulate speed. They also inspect your transmission fluid levels and may recommend flushing the system if it appears cloudy or dirty. The transmission fluid helps cool the gears and increases lubrication so the clutch or gear lever can move between gears without getting stuck.

A transmission flush helps remove contaminated fluid, and any sludge or debris clogging the system and replaces it with new fluid. The mechanic also replaces the transmission fluid filter to help remove dirt from the system. If you continue to have trouble accelerating or shifting, there could be a leak, or the gears could be shedding metal shavings due to excess wear and tear.

When to Get Transmission Repairs

Bring your Kia in to have the transmission inspected by a professional every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Your vehicle owner's manual recommends specific intervals for maintaining the transmission.

You should also visit your local mechanic if you notice:

  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Frequent gear slippage
  • Fluid leaks
  • Rough idling and hard starts
  • Reduced acceleration or power
  • Vibrations along the steering column 
  • Strong odors
  • Grinding noises
  • Overly hot gearbox

Automatic transmissions tend to need more frequent repairs than stick shifts because they use advanced technology to help regulate speed based on the acceleration inputs. Instead of manually adjusting the gear shift, an internal computer controls shifting and the clutch. Manuals tend to be easier to repair, but automatic transmissions help improve accuracy and fuel efficiency.

Tips for Maintaining Your Kia Transmission

Keeping your transmission in good condition helps improve safety and fuel consumption. Use these tips to help protect your gears from wear and tear:

  • Check your transmission fluid levels often
  • Avoid shifting when the car is moving
  • Service the cooling system
  • Avoid keeping your foot on the brake when driving
  • Let the car warm up before starting

Hauling heavy loads puts additional strain on the gears and drivetrain. Limit the weight of your loads and service the transmission often when towing.

A working transmission sets the pace of your car, helps improve fuel efficiency, and makes it easy to shift gears. Poor transmission maintenance will overwhelm the engine and make it harder to stop. Contacting the professionals is the best way to help resolve the issue. Visit DARCARS Kia of Temple Hills today to have your transmission inspected by one of our mechanics!

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