Thanks to the harsh winter weather often experienced in Fairfax, Virginia, your car’s transmission can start to fail if it’s not properly maintained. The more often you drive, the greater the odds are that your vehicle may require a full transmission repair or replacement. Transmission fluid thickens in cold weather, making it more difficult to shift gears. As the fluid thickens, it makes it more difficult to lubricate the many moving parts of your engine. Winter may also cause your transmission fluid to leak, potentially causing serious and costly damage to your engine. Here are a few helpful ways you can preserve and save your car’s transmission during the winter months.
Fight Off Damage with Warmth
Keeping your car and your engine warm can help to combat transmission-related damage. Whenever possible, store your car in a garage to keep it warm. A car cover is another inexpensive alternative. Allow your vehicle to warm up after sitting outside in the cold overnight but be sure to avoid letting your car sit idle for too long. Keeping the engine warm and allowing it to heat up before driving can help prevent potentially serious issues.
Pay Close Attention to Your Transmission Fluid
Make sure that you’re adding the correct transmission fluid for your vehicle. Synthetic is often best, but you’ll need to make sure that it can be added to your particular make and model. Check on fluid levels regularly so that your engine runs smoothly and stays properly lubricated. When in doubt, take your vehicle to Fairfax Auto Repair for regular check-ups and maintenance.
Watch Your Driving Habits
You may not realize it, but how you drive during the winter can have an impact on your transmission. If you find yourself stuck in the snow, never spin the wheels or rock your car back and forth whenever possible. Instead, find help and have people assist you with pushing the car out of the snow. Avoid driving near black ice and stay off the roads during periods of heavy snowfall whenever possible. When you start driving, go slowly for the first few miles to give your transmission fluid a chance to warm up.
From freezing temperatures to snowy days and nights, protecting your car during the harsh winter season is especially important. Follow these simple tips so you can be sure your transmission stays in excellent shape. Doing so will help you avoid costly repairs, and your car will perform better and last longer so you can protect your investment.
