What to Do if You Have a Transmission Fluid Leak
Transmission fluid problems are the most common causes of internal transmission damage and shifting issues in a vehicle. Your transmission needs a proper amount of clean transmission fluid running through the system. Using the right type of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) for your specific vehicle is also very important.
If the transmission fluid is burnt or dirty, it won’t work properly and problems can start to develop. This is why you need to change your transmission fluid and filter periodically for the overall health of your transmission system. An even bigger concern is when the transmission fluid level is too low. Unfortunately, fluid leaks can occur and may cause significant damage if left ignored. At the first sign of a transmission fluid leak, you should get your vehicle inspected by a transmission expert.
Identifying Transmission Fluid
The first challenge is knowing what kind of fluid is leaking from your vehicle. There are many different automotive fluids, including engine oil, fuel, radiator coolant, air conditioning coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid and windshield washer fluid. Most are different colors and fairly easy to identify. Transmission fluid is no exception. It is generally a translucent dark red color. It tends to get darker over time and through use. And, when the fluid starts to get really dark or smell a little burnt, it’s usually a sign to get your transmission serviced with new fluid installed.
Another telltale sign of a transmission fluid leak is the location of the leak itself. Radiator leaks will happen under the very front of the car and engine oil will generally leak under the engine. The transmission is located more toward the center of the vehicle. If you see red fluid on the ground in this general area, you likely have a transmission fluid leak. Any transmission leak where the fluid is on the ground should be cause for immediate concern. That’s a sign of a major leak. Be careful about driving anywhere and get it looked at as soon as possible—before it gets much, much worse.
Causes of Transmission Fluid Leaks
Transmission fluid leaks can happen because of worn seals or a worn transmission pan gasket, or because of loose fittings along the fluid lines. Worn seals are relatively easy to replace. There could be other damage like a cracked line or a crack in the housing that will require more significant repairs.
Sometimes, minor leaks can occur and be harder to detect unless you are under the vehicle and seeing excess fluid accumulating or coagulating around the transmission. It’s a good idea to get your transmission inspected with any automotive service visit. They can check the fluid level and quality, and look for any potential leaks. Most vehicles also have a transmission fluid dipstick just like the motor oil dipstick. You can check it periodically to make sure the fluid level is adequate and the fluid looks clean.
Dealing with a Transmission Fluid Leak
If you do have a transmission fluid leak or any signs of transmission trouble, you should take it very seriously. You want to take action before major internal transmission damage starts to occur. Parts could seize up or overheat, and before long you are looking at a complete transmission rebuild or replacement if the damage becomes too severe. It’s best to address a transmission fluid issue right away to prevent it from getting worse.
For all your transmission repair needs in Escalon and the surrounding San Joaquin Valley communities, call Escalon Transmission at (209) 838-0113 or request an appointment online to get your transmission inspected by our experienced drivetrain specialists.
