In a combustion engine, fuel and air undergo a chemical process to release energy. Next, the transmission transfers this energy to the wheels to move the vehicle. Failing parts in this system can allow fluid to leak affecting the car’s handling and leading to potential damage. Delaying servicing because of fear of the transmission fluid leak repair cost often leads to a larger bill.
Some Transmission Fluid Leak Repair Cost Factors
With hundreds of moving parts, the automatic transmission needs fluid for lubrication. A leak will cause the fluid level to drop and starve your system. Thus, you should have a leak repaired as soon as possible.
Generally, the transmission fluid leak repair cost can vary greatly from about $150 to $1000. This price variation to fix the leak depends on these factors:
- Cost of the part
- Location in the system
- Extent of the damage
- Make/model/year of vehicle
Here are the most common places for transmission leaks to develop:
1. External seals: front and rear
Typically, manufacturers use rubber to make seals. Heat and oxidation may cause the rubber to become either hard, cracked, and brittle or soft and spongy. Nevertheless, a failing seal will allow fluid to leak out.
2. Pan/gasket
The transmission pan is a reservoir for the fluid. Due to its position close to the road, it can suffer impact damage caused by debris. Additionally, located between the pan and the transmission housing is a gasket. Just like seals, the gasket can deteriorate from heat and age allowing fluid to leak out.
3. Cooling lines
Transmissions generate a lot of heat. The fluid absorbs the heat, travels to the radiator via cooling lines, and cools down before returning to the transmission. Although manufacturers make these lines from rubber, metal, and braided stainless steel, most passenger cars come equipped with rubber lines. While rubber is durable, the connections are subject to leaking.
4. Torque converter
In an automatic transmission, this part transmits the force produced by the engine and crankshaft. Although built to last the life of the car, certain conditions can hasten its failure:
- Overheating
- Worn out automatic transmission fluid
- Failing seals
- Age
Signs You May Have A Transmission Leak
Without enough fluid, your car won’t operate normally. Usually, you can tell you have a transmission leak by one of the following signs:
1. Puddle of red fluid under your car
Your car contains many different types of fluid. Transmission fluid is red that’s oily to the touch with a slight petroleum smell.
2. Grinding noise
Any unusual noises always need investigation. When transmission fluid is low, metal parts may grind against metal producing grating sounds.
3. Slipping gears
Without enough fluid, your transmission will struggle to change gears. You may hear your engine racing yet your car barely moves. Additionally, you may feel the transmission struggle to shift to a higher gear or slip into neutral when driving.
4. Excess vibrations
Transmission fluid has multiple purposes. In addition to lubrication, it provides hydraulic pressure. When it’s low, there won’t be enough force to smoothly engage the gears. This results in a shuddering or vibrating sensation.
5. Overheating engine
Generally, low fluid levels can’t properly cool the transmission generating excessive heat. This extra heat passes on to the engine leading to overheating.
Transmission Fluid Leak Repair Cost – FAQs
Are you experiencing one of the symptoms of a transmission leak? Bring your vehicle to Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville and one of our experienced technicians will inspect it. Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions about transmissions.
Can I Continue To Drive My Car Until I Can Get To The Auto Shop?
No. Continuing to drive a car with low transmission fluid increases your risk of total transmission failure. To avoid serious damage, bring your car to your local mechanic as soon as possible.
Is It Safe To Use A Stop Leak Product?
Transmission stop leak products work by swelling seals and restoring their elasticity. It can be a temporary fix if this is the location of your leak. However, these products won’t stop a leak in your torque converter or pan.
Moreover, this additive can thicken the fluid affecting the viscosity and hydraulic pressure. Thus, the repeated use of stop leak products will risk damage to other parts.
What Type of Maintenance Should I Perform To Avoid Leaks?
All recommended maintenance is crucial for keeping your car systems running efficiently. Specifically, experts recommend these servicing tasks for keeping your transmission healthy:
- Check automatic transmission fluid with every oil change
- Service your cooling system
- Change the transmission fluid and filter on schedule
- Periodically have an expert inspect your system
Where Is The Best Place To Get A Transmission Problem Fixed?
When you need a reliable auto and transmission repair shop, trust Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville. For over 25 years, we’ve been serving the community with reliable repairs and competitive prices. With 4 ASE-certified technicians, we repair and maintain any domestic and foreign vehicle with the following services:
- Oil change
- Coolant flush
- Radiator and hose replacement
- Brakes
- Wheel alignment
- Exhaust system repair
- Fuel system repair
- Tire repair/replacement
- Transmissions
- Steering and suspensions
- State safety and emissions inspection
- Car wash and hand detailing services
- And more!
If you’re experiencing any transmission problems, call us at 336-904-6319. You can also use our online form to make an appointment. Every day you delay fixing your leak increases your potential for a higher bill.
