5 Ways to Keep Your Manual Transmission Working

By Mister Transmission

Avoid costly transmission repairs. Read our simple tips for keeping a car with a manual transmission running smoothly

Vehicles with manual transmissions aren’t as common on our roads as they once were. It’s estimated that about 5% of all new vehicles sold in Canada since 2013 have manual gearboxes, but if you’re driving one of them, it’s important to be mindful of manual transmission maintenance tips.

There is much to be said of the benefits of driving a vehicle with an automatic transmission nowadays, but stick-shift enthusiasts have their reasons for opting for a manual transmission. While most of the reasons cited are not rooted in fact – they’re more fuel efficient than automatics, you have more control of your car, or they’re a theft deterrent – there’s no denying cars with manual gearboxes are incredibly fun to drive.

In any event, here are five tips to help extend the life of your manual transmission and prevent a breakdown:

1. Completely lift your foot off of the clutch pedal with each gear shift. In other words, don’t ride the clutch. It’s a bad habit to get into when you’re driving and it puts undue strain on the clutch and the gearbox.

2. Have your engine’s cooling system serviced periodically. Your vehicle’s cooling system helps prevent the engine from overheating. But did you know it also ensures the transmission fluid pumping through the gearbox is cooled too? It’s more likely you’ll need a transmission repair before your engine completely overheats. Make sure your cooling system is in optimal condition.

3. Get your transmission flushed regularly. Changing the transmission fluid in your car is best left to a professional. Consult your car’s owner’s manual, but in general, get your vehicle’s transmission flushed once a year. How long the transmission fluid in your car will last depends on the vehicle’s operating temperature and how much driving you do.

4. Don’t downshift when you need to slow down. Contrary to popular belief, downshifting when you’re slowing your vehicle down or coming to a complete stop is not good for your engine or your manual gearbox. In fact, downshifting puts more wear and tear on your transmission. Stick to using your brakes to slow down and stop.

5. Have your transmission inspected annually. Having a certified transmission repair specialist conduct a diagnostic check of your transmission for leaks and other abnormalities at least once a year, as well as checking the transmission fluid’s level, colour, and smell periodically is smart preventative maintenance.

If you are in the Weston neighbourhood in northeast Toronto near the Humber River, or driving on Black Creek Drive south of Highway 401 and are experiencing transmission troubles or suspect you are, call us now at 416-249-1300, or visit us at 1677 Jane Street in North York. Stranded roadside because of a breakdown? Our tow truck is standing by. Our experienced team of transmission repair specialists will get your car back on the road again fast.

image-reviews image-reviews
Customer Reviews
The people at Mister Transmission...
Randy Mazak
The people at Mister Transmission at exeter rd in london were curtious very experienced and met the time line they set out. I would recommend this dealership to anyone.
Date: May 3, 2025
Website: Google
Knew how to fix my...
Lost
Knew how to fix my truck right away without having to replace my transmission. Very knowledgeable and friendly service I would highly recommend thos place to everyone.
Date: May 2, 2025
Website: Google
Great customer service.very reasonable prices.
Leslie Sheppard
Great customer service.very reasonable prices.
Date: May 2, 2025
Website: Google
Great
Wale Oke
Great
Date: May 2, 2025
Website: Google
I would highly recommend them....
Ann Paterson
I would highly recommend them. They were amazing to work with and went over and above to help solve my problem.. Thank you.
Date: May 2, 2025
Website: Google
Being a widow I was...
Wendy Langill
Being a widow I was scared to death to have to take my car in to a transmission shop I was so pleasantly surprised to find out that the problem is had was caused by a squirrel and they fixed it quickly and at no charge. Julie was wonderful and I would recommend this shop to anyone that think they have a transmission problem.
Date: May 2, 2025
Website: Google
Highly recommend Mister Transmission! From...
Raven Nicolay
Highly recommend Mister Transmission! From my first phone call, Dawn was incredibly knowledgeable—she was nearly able to diagnose the issue just over the phone. To confirm, they scheduled me in the same day for a test drive and diagnostic. Chris promptly provided clear options and pricing estimates, ensuring I knew what to expect. Before I left, he confirmed parts availability and even offered a helpful recommendation for a rental car while mine was being serviced.I was relieved to receive good news and that the more affordable repair option was the solution. While it can be a little difficult to get through to them due to how busy they are, they genuinely do their best to respond promptly. When a minor issue came up shortly after, they got me back in right away and resolved it quickly.Thanks again to the whole team for the excellent service!
Date: May 2, 2025
Website: Google
Wes solved the engine problem...
Trevor Fairweather
Wes solved the engine problem in 1 day, and he actually troubleshot the problem. This was after three competing garages did not solve the problem.Thank you Wes
Date: May 1, 2025
Website: Google
Employees were very helpful,Very fast...
Richard Williamson
Employees were very helpful,Very fast and efficient service
Date: May 1, 2025
Website: Google
Thank you so much for...
Daryle Clements
Thank you so much for your professional excellent service today very nice people to deal with, I wouldn't take my tranny troubles anywhere else other than you guys
Date: May 1, 2025
Website: Google
Featured Services
Transmission Repair

The evolution of transmissions has made these machines and systems increasingly complex. When transmission repairs are required, determining the cause and cure for what ails can be tricky.

Read More
Transmission Technology

At Mister Transmission we have access to leading-edge diagnostic equipment, enabling us to offer you the fastest and most accurate findings about what’s going on inside your vehicle’s transmission.

Read More
Transmission Maintenance & Service

Just as you have other parts of your car serviced, your transmission needs maintenance to ensure a long life and avoid transmission problems.

Read More
Mister Transmission Blogs
Recent Blogs
Preventative Transmission Maintenance: 5...
A vehicle's transmission is one of its most critical components, responsible for
Read More
April 30, 2025
Transmission Rebuild Vs. Replacement: Wh...
When a vehicle's transmission begins to fail, owners often face a crucial decision:
Read More
April 23, 2025
Transmission Overheating Causes: How To ...
Transmission overheating occurs when the system becomes too hot to function properly.
Read More
April 16, 2025
Signs Of A Failing Transmission Filter A...
The transmission filter plays a crucial role in keeping the transmission system clean
Read More
April 7, 2025
Manual Vs. Automatic Transmission Mainte...
Your vehicle’s transmission plays a crucial role in keeping your car running
Read More
March 31, 2025
Honda Transmission Replacement Price: Wh...
The cost of replacing a Honda transmission varies depending on the model, year, and
Read More
March 28, 2025
How Much Does A New Transmission Cost? A...
A vehicle’s transmission is one of its most crucial components, responsible for
Read More
March 24, 2025
Cheap Transmission Repair Services: Wher...
Transmission repair costs can be high due to the complexity of the system. Unlike
Read More
March 7, 2025
How To Find The Best Transmission Repair...
A vehicle's transmission is one of its most crucial components, ensuring smooth gear
Read More
February 28, 2025
Automatic Transmission Slipping Issues: ...
Automatic transmissions are crucial components of modern vehicles, allowing smooth
Read More
February 21, 2025