Winter’s icy grip can put extra strain on your vehicle, particularly your transmission. If you want to keep your car running smoothly through the cold months, here’s a quick winter car maintenance tip: warm up your car—but do it right.
While it’s tempting to let your car idle for 15 minutes on a frosty morning, this old-school practice isn’t ideal for modern vehicles. Instead, start your car, wait about 30 seconds to a minute, and then drive gently. This approach allows the engine, transmission, and fluids to warm up together while minimizing wear and tear.
In addition to warming up correctly, consider the following:
Check Transmission Fluid: Cold temperatures can thicken fluids, so make sure your transmission fluid is clean and topped off. Dirty or low fluid can lead to sluggish gear shifts.
Inspect Your Battery: The colder it gets, the harder your battery has to work. A weak battery can strain your entire vehicle, including its transmission system.
Invest in Snow Tires: Good traction reduces the risk of sudden gear changes due to skidding, which can protect your transmission.
By following these tips, you'll not only safeguard your car’s transmission but also ensure a safer and more reliable ride all winter long.
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