Summer’s nearly here, and for many of us that means taking to the road for some outdoor adventuring. Whether you’re headed to the mountains, the plains, or the beach, summer can take a toll on your vehicle’s transmission. Here we’ll look at a few factors that make summer tough on transmissions and offer some tips on keeping your transmission in smooth operating condition.

Stop-and-Go Traffic

Summer traffic means we don’t always get to cruise to our destination at highway speed. Crowded roadways, construction delays, and severe weather can all result in significant time spent in traffic jams. In such situations, it’s harder for your car to stay cool, and heat is a natural enemy of transmission fluid integrity.  In hot conditions, transmission fluid viscosity begins to break down faster, which reduces lubrication and increases friction. Frequent rapid acceleration only worsens the problem by adding even more heat. If possible, plan your travel routes to avoid the biggest traffic snarls. Also, when vacationing, consider travelling at times when most drivers are off the roads. Not only will you reach your destination faster, but you’ll extend the life of your transmission.

Hills and Mountains

Steep grades puts stress on many of your car’s systems, including your transmission.  Straining to reach a summit causes more heat buildup, which can reduce transmission fluid viscosity, and generate more debris in your transmission fluid. Off-roading through mud or over rocky terrain can also stress your transmission, so if you’re planning on taking your vehicle mountaineering, get a thorough transmission checkup, and check the trans fluid before you go.

Heavy Loads

During the summer months, we ask our cars and trucks to do a lot of extra hauling. Whether you’re pulling a trailer or pop-up, hauling dirt bikes or construction materials, you’re putting extra strain on your transmission. Like stop-and go traffic, heavy hauling means more heat, which takes a toll on your vehicle’s transmission. So get your transmission checked before summer starts, and top off your transmission fluid if it’s low. Dark fluid or a burnt odor means it’s time for a transmission fluid change.

Extreme Heat

If you’re traveling somewhere that extreme temps are the norm, have your mechanic give your trans a quick checkup before you go. You can also manage your itinerary so that you’re not on the road during the hottest times of day. If shifting becomes stiff or “clunky,” get your transmission checked by a mechanic as soon as possible. A little transmission care now can save you some major headaches (and expenses) later on.

About Main Line Transmission: Since 1987, Main Line Transmissions has given drivers in the Wayne, Devon, Berwyn, Paoli, Malvern, Exton West Chester and surrounding areas the best transmission service available. Working only on transmissions of every make or model, our technicians are experts through certification, continual training and years of experience.