Car Keeps Running Out of Transmission Fluid
Causes
- Leak in the transmission pan or gasket: This is the most common cause of transmission fluid leaks. The transmission pan is located at the bottom of the transmission and is sealed with a gasket. If the gasket fails or the pan is damaged, transmission fluid can leak out.
- Leak in the transmission cooler lines: The transmission cooler lines are responsible for cooling the transmission fluid. If these lines are damaged, transmission fluid can leak out.
- Leak in the transmission pump: The transmission pump is responsible for circulating the transmission fluid throughout the transmission. If the pump fails, transmission fluid can leak out.
- Overfilled transmission: If the transmission is overfilled, it can cause the transmission fluid to leak out of the dipstick tube.
Symptoms
- Low transmission fluid level: The most common symptom of a transmission fluid leak is a low transmission fluid level. You can check the transmission fluid level by using the dipstick.
- Slipping transmission: If the transmission fluid level is too low, it can cause the transmission to slip. This can make it difficult to accelerate or shift gears.
- Burning smell: If the transmission fluid is leaking onto hot engine parts, it can cause a burning smell.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a transmission fluid leak, a mechanic will typically:
- Check the transmission fluid level: The mechanic will use the dipstick to check the transmission fluid level.
- Inspect the transmission pan and gasket: The mechanic will inspect the transmission pan and gasket for any signs of damage or leaks.
- Inspect the transmission cooler lines: The mechanic will inspect the transmission cooler lines for any signs of damage or leaks.
- Inspect the transmission pump: The mechanic will inspect the transmission pump for any signs of damage or leaks.
Repair
The repair for a transmission fluid leak will depend on the cause of the leak. If the leak is caused by a damaged transmission pan or gasket, the mechanic will replace the pan or gasket. If the leak is caused by damaged transmission cooler lines, the mechanic will replace the lines. If the leak is caused by a failed transmission pump, the mechanic will replace the pump.
Prevention
There are a few things you can do to help prevent transmission fluid leaks:
- Check the transmission fluid level regularly: You should check the transmission fluid level every few months to make sure it is at the proper level.
- Inspect the transmission pan and gasket for damage: You should inspect the transmission pan and gasket for any signs of damage every time you change the oil.
- Inspect the transmission cooler lines for damage: You should inspect the transmission cooler lines for any signs of damage every time you change the oil.
- Avoid overfilling the transmission: You should never overfill the transmission. Overfilling the transmission can cause the transmission fluid to leak out of the dipstick tube.
By following these tips, you can help prevent transmission fluid leaks and keep your transmission running smoothly.
