How Weather Extremes Affect Your Transmission: Cold, Heat & Everything In Between

Living and driving in Langley, means your vehicle sees it all. Cold winter mornings, warm summer days, and plenty of unpredictable seasonal changes in between. While most drivers think about how weather affects their tires or battery, how weather extremes affect your transmission is just as impacted.

Understanding how weather affects your transmission can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your vehicle running smoothly year-round.

How Weather Extremes Affect Your Transmission

Cold Weather & Transmission Performance

During colder months in Langley, transmission fluid thickens, making it harder to circulate properly. This can lead to delayed or rough shifting, especially when you first start your vehicle.

Cold-weather transmission issues may include:

  • Hesitation when shifting gears
  • Slipping until the vehicle warms up
  • Increased wear on internal components
  • Reduced fuel efficiency

Cold temperatures can also make seals and gaskets less flexible, increasing the risk of leaks if your transmission isn’t properly maintained.

Hot Weather: Heat Is a Transmission Killer

Summer heat, combined with stop-and-go traffic or towing, can cause transmission temperatures to rise quickly. Overheating breaks down transmission fluid, reducing its ability to lubricate and cool vital components.

Signs of heat-related transmission problems include:

  • Burning smells
  • Slipping gears
  • Overheating warnings
  • Dark or contaminated transmission fluid

Left unchecked, heat damage can lead to major transmission failure.

Seasonal Changes & “In-Between” Weather

Langley’s seasonal transitions can also stress your transmission. Rapid temperature changes cause materials to expand and contract, which can expose worn seals, aging fluid, or existing mechanical issues.

Protecting Your Transmission

The best defence against weather-related transmission problems is preventative maintenance. Regular transmission inspections, fluid services, and early diagnosis can significantly extend the life of your vehicle.

At A&B Transmissions in Langley, we understand how local driving conditions affect your transmission. Our experienced technicians are equipped to identify issues early, before they become costly repairs.

If you’ve noticed rough shifting, unusual noises, or want peace of mind before the next season, contact A&B Transmissions today. We’re here to keep Langley drivers on the road in every weather condition.