Your car’s transmission system plays a critical role in its overall performance in Granite City, IL. It’s responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, enabling your vehicle to move smoothly. However, like any other component, the transmission system can develop issues over time, including leaks. Transmission leaks can lead to serious problems if left untreated. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of transmission leaks that can occur in your car and how to diagnose and address them.
Transmission Pan Gasket Leak
One of the most common sources of leaks in Granite City, IL is a faulty transmission pan gasket. The transmission pan is positioned beneath the transmission and serves as a reservoir for the transmission fluid. Over time, the gasket that seals the pan can deteriorate due to heat and age, leading to leaks. Symptoms of a pan gasket leak may include puddles of red or brown transmission fluid under your car and low transmission fluid levels on the dipstick. To fix this type of leak, you’ll need to remove the pan, replace the gasket, and refill the transmission fluid. It’s essential to address this issue promptly to prevent damage to your transmission.
Output Shaft Seal Leak
The output shaft seal is another common source of leaks. This seal is located at the point where the transmission connects to the driveshaft or axles. A worn or damaged output shaft seal can cause transmission fluid to leak onto the ground. Signs of this type of leak may include a reddish-brown puddle near the back of the transmission and a decrease in transmission fluid levels. To fix an output shaft seal leak, the transmission must be removed, and the seal replaced. Ignoring this type of leak can lead to more extensive damage to your transmission and drivetrain.
Front Pump Seal Leak
The front pump seal is located within the torque converter housing of an automatic transmission. A leak in this area can result in a noticeable loss of transmission fluid. Common signs of a front pump seal leak include transmission fluid pooling near the front of the transmission and a burning smell when the fluid contacts hot engine components. Repairing a front pump seal leak involves removing the transmission, disassembling the torque converter, and replacing the damaged seal. Neglecting this issue can cause serious transmission damage.
Transmission Cooler Line Leak
Many vehicles have transmission cooler lines that carry transmission fluid to and from a separate cooler, usually located in the radiator. If these lines develop leaks or become damaged, it can lead to a loss of transmission fluid and potential overheating of the transmission. Symptoms of a cooler line leak may include fluid dripping from the lines or connections and a drop in transmission fluid levels. To address a transmission cooler line leak, you may need to replace the damaged lines or connectors. It’s crucial to maintain proper transmission fluid levels and keep the transmission cool to prevent severe damage.
If you live around the Granite City, IL area and are looking for a nearby company who can help fix a transmission leak in your car, contact Marshall’s Transmission Service!
