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.
Thankfully, this particular problem does not require a major repair. Your technician can repair the transmission leak by replacing the seals to fix the 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.
SEE ALSO
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How Much Time Does it Take to Replace a Transmission?
Hard Clutch? Might be Time for Clutch Repair or Service
Signs of a Torque Converter Problem & How Much Fixing Will Cost
Head Gasket Replacement or Repair
Schedule an Appointment at Our State Inspection Shop
What Happens when Water Gets into Your Vehicle’s Transmission?
