Blog

Winter Woes: The Most Common Transmission Problems in Cold Weather

While winter is sometimes called “the most wonderful time of year,” it can wreak havoc on your vehicle—especially your transmission. The extreme cold in Edmonton changes how your transmission functions, often leading to performance issues that range from annoying delays to complete mechanical failure. In this blog, we’ll go over common transmission problems in cold weather and what you can do to help prevent costly transmission repair. Common Symptoms of Transmission Problems in Cold Weather How do you know if the cold is winning? Watch for these specific winter warning signs: 1. The "Cold-Start" Hesitation In freezing temperatures, transmission fluid thickens (increases in viscosity). When you shift into Drive or Reverse on a cold morning, you might notice a several-second delay before the gear engages. This is a sign that the thick fluid isn't flowing quickly enough to build the pressure needed for gear engagement. 2. Harsh or Erratic Shifting...