Here are some things you can do to prolong the life of your transmission.

1. Check Fluid Level Regularly.     Fluid leaks are the main cause of failure. Have the cause of the leak determined by a transmission specialist.
   
   
2. External Coolers.     The second most common cause of transmission failure is from heat. External coolers are good for towing, hauling, or any situation where the vehicle is idling excessively. External coolers can be added to any vehicle and are mounted in front of the radiator and will keep the temperature of the transmission fluid at normal operating levels under high-stress conditions.
   
   
3. Have malfunctions checked promptly.     Having a transmission checked out at the first sign of trouble will save you money. The longer you drive on a failing transmission, the higher the repair bill may be.
   
   
4. Service the transmission regularly.    Have a complete fluid service with filter change (on vehicles equipped with changeable filters) every 12 months or 12,000 miles. This is usually more often than the manufacturer recommends, but keep in mind, the manufacturer really wants to sell you another car. Doing it more often will ensure that problems are caught early on, before major damage occurs.
   
   
5. Keep engine in tune.    A poorly operating engine can damage a transmission. Keep it in tune, and running strong.
   
   
6. Keep engine cooling system operating correctly.    The transmission fluid is cooled by the same radiator that cools the engine. So if the engine overheats, so does the transmission. The transmission is more sensitive to mild overheating than the engine. So if the overheating doesn't damage the engine, it still may damage the transmission. If you do overheat your engine, have the transmission looked at by a transmission specialist.
   
   
7. Avoid the "don'ts".     Review our list of things you should never to do your transmission, and avoid doing them. Click HERE to see that page.