Winter can be a challenging time for vehicle owners, especially when it comes to maintaining the transmission. In this month’s blog post, we look at the impacts of snow and cold on your transmission and some tips on how to protect your transmission during the snowy and cold weather.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your transmission working properly and possibly avoid winter transmission issues.
Warm Up Your Vehicle
Why? Cold weather thickens your transmission fluid, making it less effective. Warming up your vehicle allows the fluid to thin out and circulate better.
How? Start your vehicle and let it idle for a few minutes before driving. This gives the engine and transmission time to warm up.
Use Winter Tires
Why? Winter tires provide better traction in snow, reducing the strain on your transmission.
How? Install winter tires before the first snowfall. Remember to switch back to regular tires when the weather warms up.
Avoid Overworking the Transmission
Why? Spinning tires, rocking between gears to dislodge from snow, or towing heavy loads can overheat the transmission.
How? If stuck in snow, try clearing the snow around your tires or using a traction aid instead of forcing your vehicle out. Avoid towing heavy loads in cold weather if possible.
Regularly Check Transmission Fluid
Why? Low or dirty transmission fluid can cause shifting problems and damage your transmission.
How? Check your transmission fluid regularly and change it according to your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.
Have Your Vehicle Serviced Regularly
Why? Regular maintenance can catch small problems before they become big ones.
How? Have your vehicle serviced regularly by a professional. They can check for issues such as leaks or worn parts that you might not notice.
Snow and cold weather can have significant impacts on your vehicle’s transmission. It can cause the transmission fluid to thicken, make shifting more difficult, and increase the risk of damage from overheating. If you notice problems such as difficulty shifting, unusual noises, or a burning smell, these could be signs of a transmission problem that needs immediate attention.
Remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle running smoothly in all seasons. Stay safe on the roads this winter! If you would like a pre-winter inspection of your vehicle’s transmission, contact the service professionals at Best Western Transmissions to schedule an appointment.