Checks before purchasing a car with an automatic transmission
1. Visual inspection
* Make sure there are no fluid leaks under the car.
* Check the transmission dipstick for normal fluid level and color.
2. Test drive
* Start driving on a flat surface and accelerate to 60-80 km/h.
* Gear shifting should be smooth, without slipping, delays or jolts.
* Check gear shifting in different modes (D, R, N, P).
* When driving on a slope, the transmission must effectively support the vehicle.
3. Check when stopping
* After the vehicle has warmed up, switch to Park (P) mode and release the brake pedal.
* The vehicle must remain stationary.
* Switch to Drive mode (D) and press the gas pedal. The car should start moving without delay.
4. Test under load
* Find a long straight stretch of road or hill.
* Accelerate to approximately 60 km/h and press the gas pedal hard.
* The transmission should shift to a lower gear, providing additional power.
5. Towing check
*If you plan to tow a trailer, do a short test with a load.
* Hook up the trailer and drive it at low speed.
* The transmission must be able to handle the additional load without slipping or overheating.
6. Computer diagnostics
* Connect the vehicle to an OBD-II scanner and check for transmission related error codes.
* This may reveal potential problems that have not yet become apparent while driving.
7. Checking service history
*Ask the seller for the vehicle’s service history and check to see if the transmission has been regularly serviced.
Additional tips:
*If possible, bring with you an experienced mechanic or someone who is knowledgeable about automatic transmissions.
* Feel free to ask the seller questions about the operation of the transmission.
*If you find any problems, ask the seller to provide proof of repair or replacement.
* It is best to buy a car from a reputable dealer or private seller with a good reputation.