Winterize Your Transmission in Durham

Winterizing your transmission is essential, especially in regions like Durham, North Carolina, where cold temperatures can affect vehicle performance. Cold weather can make transmission fluid thicker, which hampers its ability to lubricate and protect the transmission’s moving parts. Here’s a guide to help you prepare your transmission for winter:

Steps to Winterize Your Transmission

  1. Check and Change Transmission Fluid
  • Inspect Fluid Quality: Cold weather makes transmission fluid more viscous, reducing its ability to lubricate properly. If your fluid is dirty or old, it will be less effective, especially in winter.
  • Change Transmission Fluid: If your Chevrolet (or any vehicle) is due for a fluid change, it’s a good idea to do it before winter. Fresh fluid maintains the right viscosity even in cold temperatures. Use manufacturer-recommended transmission fluid, such as Dexron VI for most GM vehicles or Mercon V for Ford.
  • Synthetic Transmission Fluid: Consider switching to synthetic transmission fluid, which performs better in extreme temperatures, providing more consistent lubrication in both hot and cold weather.
  1. Inspect for Leaks
  • Check for Transmission Fluid Leaks: Cold weather can worsen existing leaks as seals and gaskets contract. Inspect the ground under your vehicle for signs of transmission fluid (typically red in color) and have any leaks fixed before winter sets in.
  • Replace Worn Seals: Worn or old seals and gaskets should be replaced to prevent fluid leaks and maintain proper pressure inside the transmission.
  1. Warm Up Your Vehicle
  • Start Your Car and Let It Idle: On particularly cold days, let your vehicle idle for a few minutes before driving. This allows the transmission fluid to warm up and flow properly, reducing wear on internal parts. Avoid putting the vehicle under load (such as rapid acceleration or heavy towing) until it has fully warmed up.
  1. Use the Right Transmission Fluid
  • Cold Weather-Appropriate Fluid: Make sure the transmission fluid you’re using is designed to handle colder temperatures. Some fluids thicken in cold weather, causing poor shifting and increased wear. Stick to your manufacturer’s recommendations or consider using a cold-weather-friendly option like synthetic fluid if you regularly encounter subfreezing temperatures.
  1. Check Transmission Mounts
  • Cold weather can harden rubber transmission mounts, making them more likely to crack or break. Inspect the mounts and replace them if they show signs of wear to prevent excessive vibration or damage to your transmission.
  1. Inspect Transmission Cooling System
  • Transmission Cooler: If you regularly tow in cold weather, make sure your transmission cooler is in good condition. While overheating is less likely in the winter, a functioning cooler helps regulate transmission temperature and can prevent freezing if your transmission gets too cold.
  1. Inspect Transmission Solenoids
  • Transmission solenoids, which control the flow of fluid in automatic transmissions, can be more susceptible to failure in cold weather. If you notice any rough shifting or transmission slippage, it’s a good idea to get them checked and replaced if necessary.
  1. Schedule a Transmission Inspection
  • Professional Check-Up: Before winter, take your vehicle to a trusted transmission specialist in Durham for a full transmission inspection. They can check the fluid levels, inspect the transmission system for wear, and perform any necessary maintenance.

Other Winterization Tips for Your Vehicle

  • Check Your Battery: Cold weather can drain your battery faster, so ensure it’s in good condition before winter starts.
  • Tire Pressure and Tread: Cold weather reduces tire pressure, so check and inflate your tires properly. Make sure your tires have enough tread for safe driving on winter roads.
  • Anti-Freeze Coolant: Ensure your engine’s cooling system has the correct mixture of antifreeze to prevent freezing and overheating.
  • Windshield Wiper Fluid: Switch to a cold-weather windshield wiper fluid that won’t freeze on the windshield during icy conditions.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you notice any of the following issues during winter, it’s time to have a professional inspect your transmission:

  • Slipping Gears: This can worsen in cold weather due to thickened transmission fluid.
  • Delayed Shifting: Cold weather may make shifts feel slower or rougher, a sign that your fluid or solenoids need attention.
  • Unusual Noises: Grinding or whining noises during winter could indicate transmission wear exacerbated by cold temperatures.

By following these steps to winterize your transmission and ensuring your vehicle is ready for cold weather, you’ll reduce the risk of transmission issues and keep your vehicle running smoothly all winter in Durham.

For all your transmission repair and service needs contact the experts at Cottman Transmission in Durham, NC today.  To schedule your appointment visit us https://www.durhamtransmission.com/appointment/

Cottman Transmission Total Auto Care gets you back on the road faster, visit us at https://durhamtransmission.com/ or check us out on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CottmanofDurham

For fastest response Call your Durham transmission repair center at (919) 372-0133 today

Winterize Your Transmission in Durham

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