Back to all

How to Prevent Vehicle Damage from Cold Weather

May 2, 2017

 
Heads up:  AVOID Cold-Temp Vehicle Damage! 

Cold temperatures cause the fluids in your vehicle to thicken, which reduces their ability to lubricate. If you've ever seen that Thanksgiving gravy turn into "glop" when you put it the refrigerator, then you get the basic idea.  When it's warm, gravy flows; when it's cold... no go!
 
 
Here are a few tips to avoid cold weather issues with your car:

1. Drive slowly for the first few minutes, so your vehicle has a chance to reach normal operating temps and fluids start flowing & lubricating as they should.

2. We know what you're thinking, but NO!  DO NOT let your car idle for long periods of time.  We like a toasty passenger compartment, too, but idling runs your engine rich which could damage your catalytic converter (a potentially expensive repair in its own right).  It also wastes expensive fuel & gets you nowhere.

3.  But even more - Idling can also damage the internal components of your engine.  Some transmissions won't circulate the Automatic Transmission Fluid until you place the shifter into "Drive."  That means the internal transmission components are spinning & spinning without any lubrication!  Not good. Not. Good. {Really not good, got it? NO IDLING!}
 


Genesis Lee Myles Transmissions & Auto Care
914 Fern Ave Reading PA 19607
Just off Lancaster Ave near Dunkin' Donuts

Need Service?

Request a Quote

More articles from Auto Pro Troy Auto Repair

If the Shoe Fits (Brake Shoe Replacement [Rear])

March 8, 2026

When it comes to brakes on your vehicle, we all know how important it is to keep them working well because they are vital safety equipment. After all, if you cant slow down and stop, you cant drive safely. While many vehicles use what are called disc brakes, theres another type of brakes that ... More

No Fuel-ing! (Fuel Filter Replacement)

March 1, 2026

Your vehicle has a few filters you might be somewhat familiar with. Theres the oil filter that removes impurities from your engines oil, and a couple of different kinds of air filters that prevent contaminants from getting into the engine and the cabin. But you may not know that your vehicle als... More

No Fueling Around (Fuel Filter Replacement)

February 22, 2026

A driver called in to the shop the other day saying his European sports sedan had an odd problem. He was driving when his car started to slow down. Applying more throttle didn't help. He pulled over to the side of the road, shut the engine off and waited a few minutes before starting it up aga... More