How Often Do Trucks Need a Transmission Service?

At Ralph’s Transmission, we love trucks and we know how much you love your truck. Whether it’s your daily driver, a recreation vehicle or a work truck (or all of the above), you rely on your truck for so much. That’s why you want to take care of it and keep it running well for many years to come. Trucks are a way of life here in the Central Valley. That’s why we’re proud to be the area’s truck transmission specialist—from smaller pickups to heavy duty work trucks and larger utility vehicles.

One question we are asked often is how frequently trucks require transmission maintenance. How often should the transmission fluid be checked? What mileage intervals are recommended for replacing a truck’s transmission fluid, filter and pan gasket? The answers may depend on several key factors. Here are some of the things to consider when following a truck transmission maintenance plan:

Manufacturer’s Recommendation

Of course, the first place to look is the owner’s manual—especially if the truck is relatively new. Most vehicle manufacturers recommend transmission servicing every 30,000-60,000 miles. Those intervals may be more or less depending on the make and model. However, looking at the manufacturer’s recommendations is generally a good place to start.

Truck Model & Size

Obviously, there are many different types of trucks, SUVs and utility vehicles. The larger and heavier your vehicle, the more often the transmission may need maintenance. It’s smart to at least check your transmission fluid frequently. If it’s starting to get thick, dark or dirty, you may be overdue for a transmission service. You’ll want to be smart with all your automotive maintenance needs when driving a heavy duty truck or service vehicle. Do what you need to do to keep it on the road and working for you.

Vehicle Age & Mileage

The age and overall mileage of your truck or work vehicle may also be a factor to consider. These heavier vehicles take a lot of abuse over the years. The transmissions are designed to handle a lot of torque, but things tend to degrade with age. Older trucks and service vehicles may require transmission maintenance more often than newer ones.

Vehicle Usage

Let’s face it. Some of us drive our trucks a little harder than others. You may tow or carry heavy loads on a regular basis. You may push it hard on a daily basis with your work or recreational activities. Just keep in mind that this may be putting extra strain and wear on your transmission. You might need to change out the fluid and filter more often than if you use the vehicle more conservatively.

Driving Conditions

Where you drive may also have an impact on transmission wear and tear. Going up and down steep grades, driving on rough roads, sitting in stop-and-go traffic, or driving in inclement weather (high heat, rain, ice, etc.) could be extra stress on your transmission and require more frequent service visits.

Your transmission doesn’t need to be serviced as often as your engine, brakes and other vehicle systems. However, it plays a vital role in keeping your truck on the road when you need it most. Take care of your truck’s transmission maintenance and it will take care of you!

For all your Central Valley truck transmission maintenance needs—including fleet account services for work vehicle fleets—count on Ralph’s Transmission. Call us today at 209.526.1909 or schedule your service appointment online.

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