Why Your Transmission Needs Extra Care After Winter

Mar 15, 2023

Winter can be tough on your vehicle, and your transmission is no exception. Your transmission is a vital part of your vehicle, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Cold temperatures can cause damage to your transmission components.  

For example, the rubber seals and gaskets in your transmission can contract, causing fluid leaks or even allow water to enter it. The transmission fluid can also thicken, making it difficult to lubricate gears and other components, leading to parts wearing down faster. Additionally, water can freeze inside the transmission, causing further damage to internal components.

It’s important to take care of your transmission after winter to ensure it’s functioning properly. Start by checking the transmission fluid level and adding more if necessary. If you haven’t changed the fluid in a while, now is a good time to do so. 

Inspect the transmission filter for clogs, as debris can affect your vehicle’s performance. Look for leaks and take your vehicle for a test drive to check for any unusual noises or signs of slipping or hesitation.

• Check transmission fluid level
• Change the transmission fluid if it hasn’t been changed in awhile (refer to your vehicle’s manual for specific information on this)
• Inspect the transmission filter
• Check for leaks
• Take your vehicle for a test drive to make sure everything is functioning properly

To avoid damage caused by ice in your transmission, let your vehicle warm up before driving in freezing temperatures, and look for puddles under the vehicle that may indicate leaking transmission fluid or water from melted ice. If you suspect there’s water in your transmission, take your vehicle to get serviced by one of our professional technicians for transmission care.

A properly maintained transmission will increase your vehicle’s longevity and performance. Taking the time to check your transmission fluid, change the fluid if necessary, inspect the transmission filter, and check for leaks can help you avoid costly repairs down the road. Remember to consult your owner’s manual for the proper method of checking your transmission fluid and other recommended intervals for maintenance.

We are here to serve you and your vehicle. If you prefer to have one of our highly trained technicians look over your vehicle’s transmission, schedule an appointment at Kunes Chevrolet GMC of Lake Geneva's Service Center today!