Letting a transmission fluid leak go, no matter how small, can cause major internal damage. What starts as a simple repair can turn into an expensive transmission overhaul. Acting early can save you a lot of money and keep your vehicle running longer.
Below, this transmission repair company in Lombard, Illinois is going to explain how to catch a transmission leak before it becomes detrimental.
What’s the big deal about a small leak?
Transmission fluid keeps everything moving inside your transmission. It cools the system, reduces friction, and helps the gears shift smoothly. When fluid leaks out, all of that is at risk.
One of the first signs is a burning smell. You might also notice spots of fluid under the car. These usually show up before bigger problems begin. If you catch them early, the damage can be avoided. Other signs to look for include slipping gears, rough or delayed shifts, or a warning light on your dashboard.
Transmission repairs are expensive, so it is best to catch problems early. A knowledgeable transmission repair company in Lombard, Illinois can help before the damage gets worse.
So how can you tell if you have a leak?
Look under your car when it has been parked. If you see red or dark red fluid under the car, that is a common sign of a transmission leak.
Transmission fluid has a sweet, oily smell. Fresh fluid is bright red and clear, whereas older or overheated fluid looks brown and smells burnt.
You may also notice your car is not shifting properly. Slipping, hesitation, or grinding can all mean the fluid is too low.
These symptoms signal a compromised transmission system. Without enough fluid, parts overheat and wear quickly. That is how full failure begins. Fixing it early can prevent all of that.
What causes transmission fluid to leak?
Most leaks start small. They usually come from worn-out gaskets, broken seals, or even a loose bolt. The transmission pan gasket, for example, can degrade over time and let fluid seep out.
Cracked fluid lines and old fittings are also common causes, especially in older vehicles. Cooler lines are known to wear out. Bad O-rings and weak connections can also lead to slow leaks.
A more serious leak might come from the torque converter. If that seal breaks or something inside cracks, fluid can leak into the bell housing and drain fast.
Even faint stains or wet spots on your driveway should not be ignored. Modern cars without dipsticks make it harder to check fluid levels at home, so professional inspections are necessary. A full-service transmission repair company in Lombard, Illinois can check the fluid and look for leaks before any serious damage occurs.
Waiting can cost you.
If you don’t fix the leak, the fluid will continue to drop, and heat will build up. That will cause clutches, seals, and other parts to wear out faster.
As the fluid gets low, damage spreads. Gears grind, bearings wear, and seals break down. Overheating weakens the fluid’s effectiveness and can make the damage even worse.
Replacing a gasket or fixing a leak costs less than if you wait and the torque converter is affected, which will cost more.
Looking for a Transmission Repair Company in Lombard, Illinois?
If your car is showing signs of transmission trouble, it’s time to take it to a trusted auto repair shop near you. As the top-rated transmission repair company in Lombard, Illinois, King Transmission Company can diagnose and repair any transmission problem you may be dealing with. Contact us today to get started.
