Features
Car Maintenance: Transmission fluid /oil change for vehicle longevity
Maintaining a car takes various forms and it may mean different things to different people at various points in time. A cursory survey and conversation with some private and commercial drivers have necessitated this auto-education.
Most people, when asked about car maintenance and what it meant to them, indicated regular engine oil change when the stipulated duration is due. Others added the regular checks of car tyre pressure, change of tyre when there is wear and tear, topping off and or adding coolant to their cars regularly while some ignorant drivers just replace water with coolant but still check regularly. This practice is quite bad as water tends to boil faster than coolant and relatively takes a prolonged time to cool down, hence the primary cause for most engine overheating. The reverse applies to coolant, hence water is not the best replacement for coolant, however, an in –depth conversation of water and coolant interchange would be for another day.
From the survey conducted changing or checking transmission fluid and or oil wasn’t mentioned in the interactions by any driver. Perhaps, this may be due to the structural design and location of most gear box covering (Mostly hidden or requires special tools to access) hence, making it next to impossible for motorists to check oil level on their own. Now the most important question to both new and old drivers; Ever heard of the transmission fluid change? Do you make a conscious effort to check the level of your transmission fluid aside the regular car maintenance tactics?
Transmission fluid/oil change is an important aspect of maintenance that most car owners ignore. Mind you, most of the cars sold in Ghana are not brand new or tear – rubber cars and while owners are aware of the importance of changing engine oil, most remain unaware about the transmission oil/fluid. So now the question; what is the Transmission fluid / oil and why should a driver be mindful of it?
Image source: Autochimp.com
There are two types of transmission; Manual and Automatic transmission – and both require lubrication to operate efficiently.
Transmission fluid, required in automatic transmission vehicles, serves as a lubricant for parts of the transmission to ensure their smooth operation and performance, providing hydraulic pressure and friction to make the internal parts of the vehicle work effectively/efficiently. It aids with functions like lubricating mechanical parts, conditioning of gaskets, gear lubricating, clutch friction, Torque converter operation cooling, preventing rust, and maintaining fluid pressure. The transmission oil, used in manual vehicles, also performs similar functions. This oil aids in the smooth shifting of the clutch and shifter during gear change. In short, the transmission fluid/oil allows for the smooth shifting of a vehicle’s gear without wearing down some internal parts.
When to change the Transmission Fluids and Oil
Transmission oil change is not meant to be done regularly, however, there is the need to change it. Just like the engine oil, the fluid can deteriorate, get clogged or dirty and its ability to work efficiently might be compromised. When changing, car owners need to ensure that the right fluid/oil is used. A sample survey organised in some local oil change workshops around indicated that most operators do not even know the types of oil hence go with the “Colloquial , unprofessional” way of identifying the oil based on colour. Most often, what is heard is; “Your gearbox either uses red or white oil”.
Warning signs that transmission fluid/oil needs changing include, fluid/oil puddles forming under the car which might be a sign of fluid leakage, roaring, whining or buzzing sounds when accelerating, over heated transmission, vehicle chattering or jerking during take offs and last but not least difficulties when shifting gears which in my opinion is one of the evident red flag. Most of the gearbox issues tackled by Andcorp Autos over the past two years stem from customers ignoring the change of transmission fluid or oil. Some of these cases included a customer who drove her car for six years straight without change of transmission oil causing the vehicle to lose mobility, damaging some gears in the transmission system. Another case at Andcorp Autos was a customer’s car losing power and the capability of moving beyond 40mph.
From the above cases, it is recommended that, transmission oil, depending on one’s style of driving, the type of transmission used and even the type and make of car should be changed at intervals – 30,000-60,000 miles for manual cars and 60,000- 100,000 miles for automatic transmission. In general, customers may always refer to Manufacturer’s Manual to determine the recommended transmission service interval for their car. In situations where second hand car owners don’t have access to the hardcopy car manual, it is advisable to check the internet for them as most manufacturers post them as free resource.
In a nutshell, always endeavour to check the transmission fluid/oil level regularly as failure to change it can cause permanent damage which could likely result in costly repairs and/or replacements. Remember regular checks prevent avoidable accidents and save resources.
The author is a Communications Professional and a
Managing Partner of Andcorp Autos, a fully owned
Ghanaian automobile company and on-demand
auto purchasing company,
Author’s email address: essahjanice@gmail.com
By Janice Osei-Essah Anderson
Introduction
In today’s fast-paced, high-achieving society, it’s common to glorify long hours and an unwavering commitment to one’s profession. However, when dedication turns into an obsession, it can have severe and far-reaching consequences.
Workaholism, a pattern of behavior characterised by excessive and compulsive work habits, is a complex and multifaceted issue that affects millions of people worldwide.
Defining workaholism: The Psychology behind the behavior
Workaholism is often driven by a combination of internal and external factors, including:
Internal Pressures:
Perfectionism: an unrelenting drive for flawlessness
Fear of failure: anxiety about not meeting expectations
Need for control: a desire to micromanage every aspect of work and life
External Pressures:
Job demands: high expectations from employers or clients
Organisational culture: a workplace environment that encourages or demands excessive work hours
Societal expectations: pressure to succeed and maintain a certain status
The health consequences: A growing concern
Prolonged workaholism can lead to a range of serious health issues, including:
1. Cardiovascular problems: hypertension, heart disease, and stroke due to chronic stress and neglect of physical health
2. Mental health concerns: anxiety, depression, and burnout, often exacerbated by lack of social support and self-care
3. Sleep disorders: insomnia, sleep deprivation, and related health issues, such as impaired cognitive function and mood disturbances
4. Immune system suppression: increased susceptibility to illnesses, such as colds, flu, and autoimmune diseases
5. Nutritional deficiencies: poor eating habits, weight changes, and related health problems, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease
The lethality risks: A hidden danger
In extreme cases, workaholism can have lethal consequences, including:
1. Sudden cardiac death: increased risk due to chronic stress, hypertension, and neglect of physical health
2. Suicide: work-related stress and pressure can contribute to suicidal ideation, particularly in individuals with underlying mental health conditions
3. Accidents and injuries: fatigue and decreased cognitive function increase the risk of workplace accidents and errors
The social and emotional toll: Relationships and identity
Workaholism can also have devastating effects on personal relationships and overall well-being, leading to:
1. Strained relationships: family, friends, and colleagues may feel neglected, abandoned, or resentful
2. Loss of personal identity: over-identification with work can lead to a loss of interests, hobbies, and sense of purpose outside of work
3. Decreased productivity: burnout and decreased motivation can result in reduced job performance and satisfaction
4. Impaired cognitive function: decreased creativity, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities due to chronic stress and fatigue
Breaking the cycle: Strategies for recovery
Recognising the signs of workaholism is crucial to preventing its negative consequences. Strategies for overcoming workaholism include:
1. Setting boundaries: establishing a healthy work-life balance and prioritising self-care
2. Prioritising self-care: engaging in activities that promote physical and emotional well-being, such as exercise, meditation, and social connections
3. Seeking support: therapy, support groups, and social connections can provide emotional support and guidance
4. Re-evaluating priorities: reassessing values and goals to align with a more balanced and fulfilling life
Conclusion
Workaholism is a serious issue that can have severe and far-reaching consequences for individuals, organisations, and society as a whole. By acknowledging the risks and taking proactive steps to maintain a healthy work-life balance, we can mitigate the negative effects of workaholism and promote overall well-being.
By Robert Ekow Grimmond-Thompson
Join our WhatsApp Channel now!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBElzjInlqHhl1aTU27
How many times have we not made New Year resolutions but have not been able to achieve them?
When we are unable to achieve them we vow to ourselves that at the end of the year, we shall make proper New Year resolutions and this time we will make it happen only for the New Year to travel on and close to the end the story repeats itself.
A lot of people find themselves in this situation and if they were to rate their success, it may hover around 48 per cent. There is a popular quote that is generally attributed to Einstein that” Insanity, is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result.
“A careful analysis will most likely reveal that, the discipline required to put in the required effort and the consistency required is absent in the execution phase of whatever plan has been put in place to realise the objectives.
Discipline according to the Oxford Dictionary is the practice of training people to obey rules or a code of behaviour, with punishment or other undesirable consequences for those failing to comply.
When we say someone is disciplined, what can be observed in his behaviour is consistency whether it is in connection with reporting for events on time, providing a particular service as promised on schedule etc.
In other words, that behaviour has become routine or has become a habit. If 2026 is going to be different from the previous years, as far as the achievement of New Year’s resolutions are concerned, then things must be done in a routine manner which will then ensure consistency.
If the resolution is say a closer walk with God by the end of the year for example, then the plan may be to sleep early enough and be able to wake up at say 5:00 am and pray and meditate on the Word of God.
This must be done every day, that is, you should have the discipline to make this routine behaviour which some people refer to as habit and that is what would ensure the realisation of your objective by the end of the year.
The question of how did you arrive at your new year’s resolution becomes very important. It brings in the God factor, which for me as a believer is very important because if you are say an Entrepreneur, then innovate ideas are what you need and according to Deuteronomy 8:18, innovative ideas to get wealth comes from God.
I believe that to be able to achieve our new year’s resolutions, we must approach them with a project management mindset. We should break the year into periods, either quarterly or monthly and evaluate our performance.
The end of the periods we have chosen should mark the achievement of certain goals or key milestones. This will reveal to us whether we are on track, whether we need to double up or there is the need to adjust certain things.
This year start looking at potential hindrances to the achievement of your resolutions. Check how much time you spend on social media for fun, like following the Akosua Serwaa and Odo Broni story and not for learning something useful that can add value to your life.
On a personal level, I have started cutting the time spent on listening to news and debates on various media platforms and using the time to polish my German and French as one of my resolutions.
Yours may be the time you spend on the phone chatting with friends, so please watch it and adjust especially as a child of God, so you too can have a testimony to share on December 31, 2026, to the glory of God. God bless.
NB: ‘KOTOKA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO KOFI BAAKO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT’
By Laud Kissi-Mensah
Join our WhatsApp Channel now!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBElzjInlqHhl1aTU27
