Coolant in Transmission: Causes and Effects on Acceleration
Introduction
Coolant is a vital fluid in your car that helps to regulate the engine’s temperature. It circulates through the engine, absorbing heat and carrying it away to the radiator, where it is cooled and returned to the engine. In some cars, coolant is also used to cool the transmission.
If coolant gets into the transmission, it can cause a number of problems, including:
* Slipping gears: Coolant can make the transmission’s clutches and bands slip, which can cause the car to accelerate slowly or erratically.
* Delayed acceleration: Coolant can also cause the transmission to shift gears more slowly, which can lead to delayed acceleration.
* Overheating: Coolant can cause the transmission to overheat, which can damage the transmission’s internal components.
Causes of Coolant in Transmission
There are a number of ways that coolant can get into the transmission, including:
* Damaged transmission cooler: The transmission cooler is a heat exchanger that helps to cool the transmission fluid. If the transmission cooler is damaged, coolant can leak into the transmission.
* Blown head gasket: A blown head gasket can allow coolant to leak into the engine’s oil passages. If the engine oil is then used to lubricate the transmission, coolant can get into the transmission.
* Cracked transmission case: A cracked transmission case can allow coolant to leak into the transmission.
Symptoms of Coolant in Transmission
The symptoms of coolant in transmission can vary depending on the severity of the problem. Some common symptoms include:
* Slipping gears: The car may slip gears when accelerating or shifting gears.
* Delayed acceleration: The car may hesitate or take longer to accelerate than usual.
* Overheating: The transmission may overheat, which can cause the transmission fluid to leak or smoke.
* Leaking coolant: You may notice coolant leaking from the transmission.
Diagnosis of Coolant in Transmission
If you suspect that your car has coolant in the transmission, it is important to have it diagnosed by a qualified mechanic. The mechanic will likely perform a number of tests, including:
* Visual inspection: The mechanic will inspect the transmission for any signs of coolant leaks.
* Fluid analysis: The mechanic will take a sample of transmission fluid and analyze it for the presence of coolant.
* Pressure test: The mechanic will perform a pressure test to check for any leaks in the transmission cooler or case.
Treatment of Coolant in Transmission
The treatment for coolant in transmission will depend on the cause of the problem. If the problem is caused by a damaged transmission cooler, the cooler will need to be replaced. If the problem is caused by a blown head gasket, the head gasket will need to be replaced. If the problem is caused by a cracked transmission case, the transmission case will need to be repaired or replaced.
Prevention of Coolant in Transmission
There are a number of things you can do to prevent coolant from getting into the transmission, including:
* Keep the transmission fluid level full: A low transmission fluid level can cause the transmission to overheat, which can damage the transmission cooler and lead to coolant leaks.
* Inspect the transmission cooler regularly: Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks.
* Have the head gasket inspected regularly: A blown head gasket can allow coolant to leak into the engine’s oil passages, which can then lead to coolant getting into the transmission.
Conclusion
Coolant in transmission can cause a number of problems, including slipping gears, delayed acceleration, and overheating. If you suspect that your car has coolant in the transmission, it is important to have it diagnosed by a qualified mechanic. The mechanic will be able to determine the cause of the problem and recommend the best course of treatment.
