Types of Transmission Leaks to Repair | My Transmission Experts (2024)

If you notice some read fluid leaking from your vehicle, it’s a sure sign that you have a transmission fluid leak. You should address transmission fluid leaks quickly to protect it and prevent even more costly repairs at best, or transmission replacement at worst. Identifying the location of the leak is the first step in fixing it. Here are four common areas where transmission leaks can develop.

Pan Gasket Leaks

The transmission pan is fairly easy to spot when you look at the bottom of your vehicle. Pan gaskets are designed to seal the pan so that it does not leak. If they do not have a perfect dry seal, transmission fluid can leak from this area. This can happen due to normal wear and tear. In addition, if the gasket isn’t properly aligned when the transmission pan was installed, it can roll off of the surface it is supposed to seal, and this can create a leak. DIY repairs can often lead to this problem.

Transmission Cooling Lines Leaks

Transmission cooling lines are responsible for moving the transmission fluid into and from the transmission. This back and forth flow allows the fluid to release the heat it gained before pumping it back into the transmission. Over time, the cooling lines can wear out and develop leaks. This is normal vehicle wear and tear. Cooling lines can also get damaged if something hits them.

If you have a leak, you may see transmission fluid on the lines themselves. You may also find that the car is shifting hard. Finally, these leaks can cause the transmission to overheat.

Leaking transmission cooling lines have to be replaced. Again, this isn’t a costly repair, because the leak is not coming from within the transmission. Having them replaced quickly is vital, though, because waiting could mean irreparable damage to the transmission and possibly the engine.

Output Shaft Seal Leaks

Your car’s output shaft seal is a barrier that protects the output shaft. The output shaft is responsible for moving power from the engine to the drive wheels making it one of the most vital components of the vehicle. If the output shaft seal starts to leak, it can release transmission fluid, but it can also allow debris into the output shaft. These leaks can develop as the seal ages or because of something hitting the seal and dislodging it.

If you suspect you have an output shaft seal leak you need to have it repaired immediately. There is too much risk of transmission failure if you let this one slide. The torque converter is not a cheap repair, but it is far more affordable than having the full transmission replaced or rebuilt.

Torque Converter Leaks

Torque converters propel the transmission fluid into the transmission. If it has a crack or has a faulty seal, or if the needle bearings are damaged, it will leak. Again, this is something that can happen with normal wear and tear of the vehicle.

Unfortunately, this is one of the more costly transmission system leaks, as replacing the torque converter is usually the only solution. Still, you need to deal with the problem, because allowing a transmission fluid leak to continue puts you at risk for transmission failure.

How Much do Transmission Leaks Cost to Repair?

The cost to fix a transmission fluid leak in a vehicle can be as little as $150 to replace a seal and around $1,000 to for a new torque converter. Ignoring these leaks and allowing permanent damage to the transmission can lead to several thousands of dollars of repair costs as you must pay for a transmission rebuild or replacement. These leaks need to be investigated to prevent severe damage to the transmission. Only a transmission specialist is qualified to handle these inspections and repairs.

If you have noticed transmission fluid leaking on your vehicle, don’t wait. Contact My Transmission Experts for comprehensive transmission service from an expert team. We are proud to serve the greater Houston area with several locations in the region.

FAQs

What is the most common transmission leak? ›

Transmission Pan Gasket

A deteriorating transmission gasket is a common cause of a transmission fluid leak. Some manufacturers may also use RTV sealer as a gasket, which will deteriorate over time.

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What is the best transmission additive to stop leaks? ›

Lucas Transmission Fix is a non-solvent formula that stops slip, hesitation and rough shifting in worn transmissions and completely eliminates most seal leaks. Use in any transmission for preventative maintenance.

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What can I use to fix a transmission leak? ›

In case the problem is a transmission leak, a simple reseal service, and transmission fluid flush is all you need to fix the problem. However, if your transmission is severely damaged, you'll probably need a replacement transmission for your car.

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Do transmission leak sealers work? ›

As a temporary solution, using a transmission stop leak product can be effective. However, anytime you're dealing with a transmission leak, the underlying problem will eventually need to be dealt with. This means a trip to your mechanic for diagnostics and repairs.

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Where are some areas on the transmission that could leak? ›

Here at the three most common places a transmission can leak fluid:

Transmission Pan Gasket. The gasket on the transmission pan is susceptible to damage and cracking, especially when exposed to extreme heat. ...
Cooler Lines. The cooler lines can allow wear down and break over time due to heat exposure and debris. ...
Seals.

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Is there a transmission additive that actually works? ›

There are no transmission additives out on the market that can take the place of preventive maintenance. You can't expect transmission additives to make up for lack of proper maintenance or fix a broken transmission.

How long does it take for a transmission stop leak to work? ›

Bar's Manual Transmission Stop Leak is formulated to restore worn seals and gaskets to stop transmission fluid leaks. Bar's Leaks Transmission Stop Leak starts working the minute you install and start driving. Expect leaks to stop after 180 - 320 km of driving. Compatible with all types of transmission fluids.

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Does the Lucas transmission fix really work? ›

This transmission fix worked wonders. Almost immediately, I noticed a significant improvement in shift quality. The gears engaged smoothly, and the overall performance of the transmission seemed to have been revitalized.

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Is there a stop leak for transmission fluid? ›

Yes, Bar's Leaks is one of the only transmission stop leaks that is compatible with all petroleum-based transmission fluids including synthetics. Use in regular automatic or manual transmissions. Also safe to use in CVT transmissions.

Does bar's leak automatic Transmission Repair work? ›

I have used the Transmission Repair as well as the Engine Repair and Cooling System Repair from Bar's Leaks and they all corrected the problems I was experiencing. I have been using Bar's Leaks for the past 50 years. It has saved me money by solving the problems without expensive repairs.

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Is Lucas stop leak bad for transmission? ›

It works well for small seeping leaks that cause staining. It does not work well for active leaks that are dripping. It also softens seals, so if the transmission is older with higher miles and the seals are hard it could soften them and cause them to break or leak hydraulically.

What is the best transmission gasket sealer? ›

Permatex Automatic Transmission RTV Gasket Maker is a specialty gasket maker that offers improved transmission oil resistance and good adhesion while retaining flexibility. It is sensor safe, non-corrosive and can be used as a gasket maker or dressing.

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Can you drive with a leaking transmission seal? ›

A transmission leak will not get better on its own. If it goes unchecked, vehicle operation will eventually be affected, and you may find yourself with an expensive repair. So, while it may be safe to drive with a leaking transmission, it's not advisable, and you shouldn't put off fixing the problem.

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How do I find out where my transmission fluid is leaking from? ›

Finding a Leak

Lay out a clean drop cloth underneath the vehicle's parking space.
Park on top of it, centering the cloth as much as possible and making sure the entire engine block and transmission are over it.
Leave the vehicle off and parked overnight.
Check the cloth for stains.

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Is it worth fixing a transmission leak? ›

A transmission leak will not get better on its own. If it goes unchecked, vehicle operation will eventually be affected, and you may find yourself with an expensive repair. So, while it may be safe to drive with a leaking transmission, it's not advisable, and you shouldn't put off fixing the problem.

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How much does it cost to seal a transmission leak? ›

How Much do Transmission Leaks Cost to Repair? The cost to fix a transmission fluid leak in a vehicle can be as little as $150 to replace a seal and around $1,000 to for a new torque converter.

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What are the symptoms of a bad torque converter? ›

It's important to note that symptoms of bad torque converter can vary depending on vehicle model. Symptoms can range from transmission slipping, shuddering during acceleration, rough idling, shaking in certain gear, unusual noises, delayed or rough shifting, and even complete transmission or torque converter failure.