Can Low Transmission Fluid Cause a Car to Shake?

Introduction

Transmission fluid is a vital part of your car’s transmission system. It helps to lubricate the moving parts and keep them running smoothly. When the transmission fluid level is low, it can cause a number of problems, including shaking.

Causes of Low Transmission Fluid

There are a few different things that can cause low transmission fluid levels:

• Leaks: The most common cause of low transmission fluid is a leak. Leaks can occur in the transmission pan, the transmission lines, or the seals around the transmission.
• Overheating: When the transmission overheats, it can cause the fluid to evaporate. This can lead to low transmission fluid levels.
• Wear and tear: As your car ages, the transmission will start to wear and tear. This can lead to leaks and other problems that can cause low transmission fluid levels.

Symptoms of Low Transmission Fluid

There are a few different symptoms that can indicate low transmission fluid levels:

• Shaking: When the transmission fluid level is low, it can cause the transmission to slip. This can lead to shaking, especially when the car is accelerating or shifting gears.
• Slipping gears: When the transmission fluid level is low, it can cause the transmission to slip gears. This can make it difficult to accelerate or shift gears.
• Noise: When the transmission fluid level is low, it can cause the transmission to make noise. This noise may be a whining or grinding sound.
• Burning smell: When the transmission fluid level is low, it can cause the transmission to overheat. This can lead to a burning smell.

Consequences of Low Transmission Fluid

If you ignore the symptoms of low transmission fluid, it can lead to serious consequences, including:

• Transmission damage: When the transmission fluid level is low, it can cause the transmission to overheat and fail. This can be a very expensive repair.
• Vehicle breakdown: When the transmission fails, it can cause your car to break down. This can be a major inconvenience and can put you in danger.

How to Check Transmission Fluid

It is important to check your transmission fluid level regularly to make sure it is at the correct level. Here are the steps on how to check transmission fluid:

1. Park your car on a level surface.
2. Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the transmission fluid to settle.
3. Locate the transmission dipstick. It is usually located near the front of the engine.
4. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag.
5. Insert the dipstick back into the transmission and pull it out again.
6. Check the fluid level on the dipstick. The fluid should be between the “full” and “add” marks.

How to Add Transmission Fluid

If your transmission fluid level is low, you will need to add more fluid. Here are the steps on how to add transmission fluid:

1. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick.
2. Remove the dipstick and add transmission fluid to the transmission through the dipstick tube.
3. Check the fluid level on the dipstick and add more fluid as needed.
4. Reinsert the dipstick and tighten it.

Conclusion

Low transmission fluid is a serious problem that can lead to expensive repairs. It is important to check your transmission fluid level regularly and add more fluid as needed. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of low transmission fluid, it is important to have your car checked by a mechanic as soon as possible.