One of the most crucial factors in maintaining an automatic transmission is regular fluid changes. Experts recommend changing the transmission fluid every 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers, especially in hot climates. While some manufacturers claim that transmission fluid lasts a lifetime, ZF, a leading transmission supplier for brands like General Motors, Ford, Mercedes, and BMW, advises replacing it every 100,000 kilometers. This recommendation is based on European conditions, where temperatures are lower, making it even more essential to change the fluid earlier in hotter regions like the Middle East.

Installing a transmission oil cooler is highly recommended for drivers who frequently push their vehicles in off-road conditions or for heavy-duty usage. Excessive heat is the biggest enemy of transmission fluid, as it breaks down its properties and reduces its ability to lubricate and protect internal components. A transmission cooler helps maintain optimal temperature levels, extending the lifespan of the gearbox and preventing costly repairs.

Shifting between Reverse (R) and Drive (D) before the vehicle has come to a complete stop is one of the most damaging habits for an automatic transmission. Many drivers mistakenly use the transmission to slow the car down instead of relying on the brakes, which leads to excessive wear on a small but crucial component known as the brake band.

The brake band is responsible for stopping internal gear sets, not the entire vehicle. Over time, this habit weakens the brake band and affects the transmission’s ability to shift gears properly. While the brake band itself is not an expensive component, replacing it often requires disassembling the entire transmission, leading to significantly higher repair costs.

Similarly, shifting into Park (P) while the car is still moving can lead to catastrophic transmission failure. The parking mechanism relies on a small metal gear, which is not designed to stop a moving vehicle. If this gear breaks, the Park function will no longer engage properly, and broken metal fragments can circulate through the transmission, leading to further damage.

A common myth among drivers is that shifting to Neutral (N) while coasting downhill or slowing down helps save fuel. However, experts confirm that modern fuel-injection systems are designed to consume less fuel when the car is in Drive (D) rather than Neutral.

From a mechanical perspective, keeping the transmission in Neutral reduces engine revolutions, affecting oil circulation and cooling efficiency. In Drive mode, the engine and transmission receive better lubrication, which helps maintain long-term performance. Additionally, coasting in Neutral poses a safety risk, as the driver must shift back into Drive before accelerating or responding to an emergency, which could delay reaction time in critical situations.

Driving through deep water can allow moisture to enter the transmission system, leading to severe mechanical issues. Water contamination alters the composition of transmission fluid, causing it to lose its lubricating properties. If the fluid becomes mixed with water, the entire transmission system can malfunction, resulting in jerky gear shifts or total failure.

Experts recommend changing all vehicle fluids, including transmission fluid, after driving through high water levels. In some cases, a single fluid change may not be enough, and multiple flushes may be required to ensure all water is removed. Preventative measures such as avoiding deep water crossings and ensuring transmission seals remain intact can help protect the gearbox from moisture-related damage.

Maintaining an automatic transmission requires proper driving habits, regular maintenance, and avoiding unnecessary stress on internal components. By following these best practices, drivers can ensure smoother performance and avoid costly transmission repairs.