CAN TRANSMISSION FLUID FREEZE?
Your transmission serves to change the gears of your vehicle. In a manual transmission, the clutch disconnects the gears from the engine, allowing you to move the transmission into the proper gear. Hydraulics pressure fluids automatically shift gears based on your engine's RPM and speed in an automatic transmission. With this in mind, it is easy to see why your transmission is an essential component of your vehicle and its ability to function.
For this blog's question, we want to talk about transmission fluid and the dangers of freezing. The danger comes from water coming into your transmission. Water freezes at 32° F or 0° C. When exposed to these temperatures, water in your transmission can freeze and expand, causing cracks in your transmission's body. If not dealt with, these cracks can effectively destroy your transmission, causing you to need a new transmission for your vehicle. In most cases, even an ounce of water can cause damage to your transmission.
Fortunately, you have a few options to help you avoid problems caused by water in your transmission. If you find yourself in areas that experience temperatures below or at freezing points, we recommend you invest your time to learn about these options; to avoid costly repairs.
- Letting the engine warm-up: When you find your car has been sitting idle in cold temperatures, we recommend letting your engine warm up before heading on the road. Giving it time to come to temperature will ensure your engine is ready for the work ahead.
- Utilizing an engine heater: A great option available for your vehicle; is an engine heater. An engine heater works just like running your car to warm up the engine, but without running your engine. You save on gas, and when you start your engine, the liquids are already at an optimal temperature; that way, your vehicle will run smoothly.
- Synthetic transmission fluid: Although more expensive than conventional transmission fluid, synthetic transmission fluid allows a smoother and more efficient transmission. This type of fluid is also more resilient to harsh weather conditions. If you have the extra bucks, choosing synthetic transmission fluid can save you more money in the long run.
- Starting your journey slow: When you start driving on the road, ease into the drive and don't strain your transmission, this will allow your engine to heat up and start getting to the level to perform.