Have you lately been experiencing bumpy rides in your truck, even on smooth roads? The problem might lie in your truck’s transmission, which a company dealing in mobile truck repairs can quickly diagnose and troubleshoot. A commercial truck’s transmission allows the vehicle to move smoothly. However, like any other machine, it can suffer from wear and tear over time. Transmission failures can be frustrating and costly, especially for commercial trucks that are relied upon for transportation and delivery services.
As a company offering mobile truck repairs in Melbourne, it’s our responsibility to inform you of tips to maintain the truck’s transmission, avoid costly repairs and maintain the overall health of your trailer. Hence, this blog is all about the top 10 causes of transmission failures in commercial trucks so that you can avoid these. Keep reading-
Table of Contents
Lack of Proper Maintenance
Regular maintenance is critical for the longevity of any mechanical component, including a truck’s transmission. The manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule outlines the intervals at which one must perform specific maintenance tasks, such as fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections.
Failure to follow this schedule can result in premature transmission failure. Over time, dirt, debris etc., can accumulate in the transmission, causing damage to the internal components. Regular maintenance through mobile truck repair companies can help prevent this buildup and keep the transmission running smoothly.
Overheating
Commercial trucks often commute long distances, which can cause the transmission to overheat. When the transmission fluid gets too hot, it becomes ineffective at lubricating and cooling the transmission’s internal components. It can cause damage to the transmission, leading to failure. Overheating can occur due to various factors, such as driving in extreme temperatures or towing an overloaded trailer. Regular maintenance activities can help prevent overheating. The companies offering mobile truck repairs in Melbourne advise frequently checking and changing the fluid levels as a basic maintenance tip for the truck.
Low Fluid Levels
Transmission fluid is essential for the adequate functioning of the transmission. It lubricates the internal components and helps dissipate heat. If the fluid level is too low, it can overheat the transmission, leading to damage and failure. It is essential to check the transmission fluid regularly and keep it at the recommended level. Low fluid levels can also indicate a leak, which requires immediate attention from mobile truck repair services to prevent further damage.
Contaminated Fluid
Contaminated transmission fluid can cause damage to the internal components of the transmission, leading to failure. Dirt, debris, and other contaminants accumulate in the transmission over time, especially if the fluid is not changed regularly. In addition, using the wrong type of fluid can also cause contamination and wreckage. It is vital to use the manufacturer’s recommended fluid and change it at the recommended intervals to prevent contamination and keep the transmission running smoothly. Contact the nearest mobile truck repair company if you are confused about your vehicle’s right transmission fluid type.
Worn-Out Clutch
The clutch is an essential transmission component that engages and disengages the engine. If the clutch wears out, it can cause the transmission to fail. A worn-out clutch can cause the transmission to slip or not engage properly, leading to damage and failure. Signs of a worn-out clutch include difficulty shifting gears and a burning smell. Regular maintenance of the truck and practising proper driving habits, such as avoiding sudden stops and starts, can help extend the life of the clutch and prevent transmission failure.
Electronic Control Module Failure
The electronic control module (ECM) controls the shifting patterns of transmission. If the ECM fails, it can cause the transmission to shift improperly, leading to failure. It can occur due to various factors, such as electrical issues, software malfunctions, or physical damage. Regular maintenance from companies offering mobile truck repairs and proper driving habits can help prevent ECM failure and extend the life of the transmission.
Broken Gears
Gears are an essential component of the transmission; if they break, it can cause the transmission to fail. Gears can break due to wear and tear over time or if the transmission is overloaded. Proper maintenance, such as regular fluid changes and inspections, can help prevent gear breakage. In addition, good driving habits, such as avoiding sudden acceleration or towing loads beyond the truck’s capacity, can also help avert gear breakage and extend the life of the transmission.
Clogged Filter
The transmission filter removes debris and contaminants from the fluid. If the filter clogs, it can cause the transmission to fail. Over time, the filter can clog with dirt, debris, and other contaminants, reducing the fluid’s ability to lubricate and cool the internal components. Regular maintenance, such as filter replacements and fluid changes, can help prevent filter clogs and keep the transmission running smoothly.
Improper Towing
Towing a commercial truck in the wrong gear, with an overloaded trailer, or at excessive speeds can cause damage to the transmission. Towing can cause the transmission to overheat or experience excessive wear and tear. It can lead to premature transmission failure. Proper towing techniques, such as using the correct gear, staying within the truck’s towing capacity, and avoiding sudden stops and starts, can help prevent transmission damage and extend life.
Manufacturer Defects
In some cases, the transmission can fail due to manufacturing defects. If there is a defect in the transmission, it can cause premature failure. It can include issues with the design, materials, or assembly process. Manufacturers may issue recalls or provide mobile truck repairs in Melbourne for affected transmissions.
In Conclusion
The transmission is a critical component of a commercial truck, and failure can be costly and frustrating. Timely maintenance, proper driving habits, and monitoring of fluid levels are essential to prevent transmission failure. If you notice signs of transmission failure, such as slipping gears or difficulty shifting, ask a qualified mechanic from OZ Truck Repairs to diagnose the truck to avoid further damage.