Types of Transmission Leaks and Their Causes

A puddle of fluid below your vehicle is one of the most obvious signs that there is something wrong with your transmission. Transmission fluid leaks can occur for a number of different reasons—from a loose seal to a cracked line. Whatever the reason, it’s important to resolve the issue immediately to avoid further damage to one of the most complex and expensive components in your vehicle. To learn about some of the various types of transmission leaks and their causes, continue reading.

Damaged Transmission Pan Gasket

Perhaps the most common cause of transmission fluid leaks—and one of the easiest to resolve—is a damaged transmission pan gasket. The transmission pan gasket is a rubber gasket that forms a seal between the transmission pan and the bell housing. Over time, this gasket naturally wears out and will need to be replaced regularly in order to prevent a leak from occurring. As such, if you notice that your transmission is leaking, this is one of the first components you should check.

Cracked Transmission Lines

Transmission lines serve the important purpose of transmitting fluid throughout the transmission. Such lines are incredibly durable—often made from either aluminum or steel—and generally last for a significant amount of time. However, there are some cases in which excessive heat or old age may cause them to crack. In such an instance, the transmission fluid flowing through them will begin to leak out. 

Torque Converter Issues

Another potential cause of a leaking transmission is an issue with the torque converter. The torque converter propels transmission fluid throughout the entire system as a result of the pressure produced from its hydraulic pump. If a crack occurs in the transmission converter’s body, or if the needle bearings become damaged, transmission fluid will begin to leak. This issue is fairly com

How To Get the Most Out of Your Transmission

The transmission is one of the most complex and expensive components of any vehicle. In addition, it is also one of the most important as the engine could not transfer power to the driveshaft, axles, and wheels without it. As such, if your transmission begins to experience issues, your only option will be to either scrap the vehicle completely or repair or replace the transmission—which can often cost thousands of dollars. To avoid spending a considerable amount of money on a transmission repair or replacement, follow these tips on how to get the most out of your transmission. While no transmission lasts forever, this guide will help you learn how to increase its lifespan.

Check and Change Transmission Fluid Regularly

One of the most common causes of transmission issues is low or contaminated transmission fluid. Transmission fluid serves numerous important responsibilities when it comes to the operation of the transmission. In addition to lubricating various moving parts and preventing premature wear and tear, transmission fluid also prevents overheating which can permanently damage the transmission.

If there is not an ample amount of transmission fluid in the transmission or if the fluid has become contaminated, it will not be able to flow throughout the system properly and fulfill its many important duties. In such a case, significant wear and tear or even a complete transmission failure will likely occur. As such, it’s important to check your transmission fluid and change it regularly. Typically, transmission fluid should be replaced every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, you may need to replace it more frequently depending on the model of your vehicle, your driving habits, and other factors. 

Conduct Thorough Annual Inspections

Don’t wait until your transmission shows signs of a serious issue before taking it in for a

A Guide To the Different Types of Automatic Transmissions

Many people are aware of the distinction between automatic and manual transmissions. However, there are far more than just two types of transmissions available. Over the years, several different forms of automatic transmissions have been developed. To determine which option best suits your tastes, consult this guide to the different types of automatic transmissions.

Torque Converter Automatic Transmission

The most common type of automatic transmission gearbox is the torque converter automatic transmission. Most automatic vehicles will have this type of transmission, which uses a hydraulic fluid coupling (i.e., a torque converter) rather than a clutch to change gears. This form of automatic transmission is highly reliable and has become increasingly less expensive over the years due to its wide availability.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

A continuously variable transmission (CVT) facilitates seamless gear shifts due to its ability to vary the drive ratios continuously depending on the speed of the engine or RPM. Rather than traditional steel gears, a CVT uses a system of belts and pulleys that allows the transmission to work so efficiently. While this type of transmission typically offers good fuel economy and is generally one of the most reliable options, it usually generates a significant amount of engine noise.

Automated Manual Transmission

The automated manual transmission is a type of multi-speed system that has a mechanical design and internal build that closely resembles a manual transmission. However, an automated manual transmission also uses automated elements such as sensors, pneumatics, actuators, and processors to electronically control the clutch and gear selection. Also known as a semi-automatic transmission or a clutchless manual transmission, an automatic manual transmission generally gets high fuel mileage over long distances but may have jerky engine performance at lower speeds.

The Benefits of Rebuilding Your Transmission

Rebuilding a transmission requires a lot of work and a significant up-front investment. Depending on the model, a transmission rebuild generally costs between $1,500 and $3,000. With such a high price tag, many vehicle owners are faced with the question, “Is rebuilding a transmission really worth it?” To determine if undergoing this expensive process is worth the money, check out some of these key benefits of rebuilding your transmission.

Financial Savings

Despite the high price tag of a transmission rebuild, having one done can actually end up saving you money. Depending on the model and damage, rebuilding a transmission can sometimes have a smaller cost than purchasing an entirely new transmission, and it’s definitely cheaper than buying an entirely new vehicle. Plus, rebuilt transmissions generally come with warranties that will ensure you don’t end up spending another thousand dollars or so if problems arise in the next few months.

You’ll Save Time

Many people rely on their vehicles to get them to important places on a regular basis, such as work or the grocery store. As such, if your vehicle experiences an issue, you’ll likely want to resolve it as quickly as possible. Purchasing a new transmission, however, can take a considerable amount of time. In addition to waiting for the transmission to ship, which can take multiple weeks, you will also have to wait for a mechanic to install it once it arrives. Fortunately, rebuilding a transmission typically only takes a few days, which makes it an ideal option for those on a time crunch.

Significantly Increase Your Vehicle's Lifespan

New doesn’t always mean better. When faced with spending a significant sum of money on a transmission rebuild, you may wonder if it’s more beneficial to just purchase a completely new transmission. However, doing so isn’t always best for your vehicle.

The transmission your car comes with is perfectly suited to its engine. A new or

Signs of a Failing Transmission Cooler