Car So Low on Transmission Fluid It Won’t Move
What Happens When Your Car is Low on Transmission Fluid?
Transmission fluid is a vital component of your car’s transmission system. It lubricates the gears and other components, helps to cool them, and prevents wear and tear. When your car is low on transmission fluid, it can cause a number of problems, including:
- Slipping gears
- Grinding noises
- Difficulty shifting gears
- Transmission overheating
- Complete transmission failure
Symptoms of Low Transmission Fluid
There are a few common symptoms that can indicate that your car is low on transmission fluid. These include:
- Leaking transmission fluid
- Dark or burnt transmission fluid
- Low transmission fluid level on the dipstick
- Slipping gears
- Grinding noises
- Difficulty shifting gears
What to Do if Your Car is Low on Transmission Fluid
If you think your car is low on transmission fluid, it’s important to take action as soon as possible. Driving with low transmission fluid can cause serious damage to your transmission, which can be expensive to repair. Here’s what you should do:
- Check the transmission fluid level. To do this, park your car on a level surface, turn off the engine, and wait a few minutes for the fluid to settle. Then, pull out the transmission fluid dipstick and wipe it clean. Reinsert the dipstick and pull it out again. The fluid level should be between the “full” and “add” marks on the dipstick.
- Add transmission fluid if necessary. If the fluid level is low, add transmission fluid until it reaches the “full” mark on the dipstick. Be sure to use the correct type of transmission fluid for your car.
- Drive your car for a few minutes and then check the fluid level again. This will help to circulate the fluid and ensure that it’s at the correct level.
Preventing Low Transmission Fluid
There are a few things you can do to help prevent low transmission fluid. These include:
- Check the transmission fluid level regularly. You should check the fluid level every time you get an oil change. This will help you to catch any problems early on.
- Change the transmission fluid according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. The transmission fluid in your car will eventually break down over time. Changing the fluid regularly will help to keep it clean and functioning properly.
- Avoid towing heavy loads. Towing heavy loads can put a strain on your transmission and cause it to leak fluid.
Conclusion
Transmission fluid is a vital component of your car’s transmission system. If your car is low on transmission fluid, it can cause a number of serious problems. It’s important to check the transmission fluid level regularly and to add fluid if necessary. By following these tips, you can help to keep your transmission running smoothly for years to come.
