Could Your Fluid Be Low?
Your vehicle’s transmission plays a critical role in how it drives and performs. It directs the power from your engine to the driveshaft, which helps to turn the vehicle’s wheels. Transmission fluid is essential for its functionality and health, and low levels can impede normal function. This will lead to poor performance, a shorter lifespan for your transmission system, and costly repairs. When you’re experiencing transmission problems, you may be at risk of a breakdown or even a collision. The experts at our transmission shop can help you keep your car running safely and smoothly for many miles to come. Keep reading for a few signs that you may have low fluid levels. Modern automatic and manual transmissions rely on precise hydraulic pressure and lubrication to operate correctly. According to vehicle manufacturers and transmission service guidelines, even a slight drop in fluid level can affect shift quality, cooling, and internal component protection—especially during stop-and-go driving common around Edwardsville, IL.
Why Is My Fluid Low?
Often, low fluid levels are caused by leaks within the transmission system. The transmission and driveshaft have seals that may become faulty over time, resulting in a fluid leak. In real-world service situations, we frequently find leaks caused by worn axle seals, aging transmission pan gaskets, loose cooler lines, or corrosion around fittings. Unlike engine oil, transmission fluid is not normally “consumed,” so a drop in level usually indicates a leak that should be addressed promptly.
Signs that Fluid is Low
Transmission Gear Slippage: If your transmission is low on fluid, then it’ll lack the hydraulic power to shift and maintain transmission gear position. Drivers may notice the engine revving without a corresponding increase in speed, delayed engagement when shifting into drive or reverse, or unexpected gear changes while driving.
Non-Operation: If the fluid is low enough, your transmission may fail to operate at all. Regardless of what transmission gear is selected, the transmission will act as though it is stuck in neutral. This condition often signals critically low fluid levels and should be addressed immediately to avoid internal damage.
Slow Shifts: Fluid provides the force necessary for the transmission to shift gears quickly and smoothly. If there is not enough fluid is present, then shifts may be sluggish. Hard, delayed, or inconsistent shifts are common warning signs noted in manufacturer service manuals when fluid pressure is compromised.
Increased Operating Temperature: Just as your vehicle’s engine needs engine oil to operate smoothly and maintain normal operating temperatures, a transmission needs fluid to maintain a normal temperature. A low fluid level results in increased friction and heat, raising the transmission’s operating temperature. Excess heat is one of the leading causes of transmission failure, as it breaks down fluid and accelerates wear on internal clutches and seals.
How to Check Transmission Fluid Safely
Low fluid is not an issue to ignore; it’s a problem that will only worsen over time, resulting in potentially costly repairs that could have been prevented with early detection and repair at a shop near Edwardsville, IL. At Marshalls Transmission Repair, our transmission specialists provide repairs for both automatic transmissions and manual transmissions. If you’re noticing warning signs or fluid spots under your vehicle, scheduling an inspection early can help protect your transmission and your wallet. To schedule your transmission repair service, give us a call today.
