What to Do if You Have a Transmission Fluid Leak | Ralph's Transmission (2024)

FAQs

What do I need to do if my transmission fluid is leaking? ›

If you suspect that your vehicle has a transmission fluid leak, it's time to make an appointment with your auto technician. A leak won't fix itself and can lead to further damage to your car's transmission if not addressed in a timely manner. Don't ignore the signs of a transmission fluid 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.

The average cost for a leaking pan gasket can average anywhere from $150-$250 depending on the type of vehicle you drive. Cooler lines can average anywhere from $200-$750. However, we often see vehicles repaired for even less and very rarely see vehicles that exceed the high end.

Replacement is the only solution when they start leaking fluid. Sometimes, the transmission cooler may fail and the line replacement comes as a part of the repair.

Depending on your car's situation, transmission stop leak products may be a good temporary solution. If you have a minor transmission fluid leak that hasn't grown to cause more serious symptoms, transmission stop leak products may help slow the leak.

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. Use also in light duty manual transmissions to increase shifting ease and transmission life.

For 10 to 15 miles, it may not cause any harm if you want to take your car to the repair shop. However, if there is a leakage of fluid, you may need mechanic assistance to take it to the repair shop.

Like all parts of an engine, transmission cooling lines can wear out. If they break or develop a leak, you will lose transmission fluid, leaving your car vulnerable. Thankfully this is a fairly simple fix, and most transmission line repairs cost between $100 and $500 dollars.

If you have low transmission fluid levels or a leak, it may significantly affect the transmission's overall performance. If ignored for a long time, it could cause crucial damage to those components. You will spend lots of money fixing the leak and then replacing the transmission oil.

Leaks usually stop in 200 miles or 3 days of driving. If leak continues, second application may be required. If leak persists after second application, mechanical damage may be severe and professional attention may be necessary.

Where do most transmissions leak from? ›

The most common source of a transmission leak due to faulty installation is from the transmission pan. The pan is not mounted correctly or incorrect bolts are used to secure it. Something as simple as these bolts will make transmission fluid leak from the pan. Hopefully, the bolts just need to be tightened.

It's possible to drive your car when its leaking transmission fluid, but it's probably not a good idea since your vehicle won't drive as required. Putting safety into consideration here are a few factors you need to consider: A common reason why your vehicle could be leaking is a gap in your transmission system.

IReplacing the seal will require removing your transmission which can be an expensive job. If that doesn't make sense for your or your vehicle, use BlueDevil Transmission Sealer to restore that seal and stop the leak.

Causes of Transmission Fluid Leaks

Over time, road debris and heat can cause the transmission fluid lines to crack or break, which can cause fluid to leak out. Another reason for lost fluid is your vehicle's torque pump has become cracked or an axle seal has been compromised.

Most repairs are fairly quick. Flushing the fluid, sealing, and recalibration can be done within a day. Replacing the shift solenoids takes a day or two. A full rebuild, however, is very time and labor-intensive and will typically take three to four days.

Excessive fluid prohibits proper lubrication and cooling and slows the rotating crankshaft, similar to the effect of running through water. When the air above mixes with the high levels of fluid, it creates a foamy substance that saturates the transmission. This can lead to: Part pitting.

Sometimes transmission fluid looks similar to engine oil. However, manufacturers add a red dye to transmission fluid so you can identify it, says Eric the Car Guy. As it ages, though, it can turn a darker red or brown. Angie's List notes that transmission fluid typically has a strong smell, too.