Where to look for a transmission fluid leak?
Transmission fluid leaks around the front and middle of the car [source: Ford]. If you find puddles of red, slick liquid on your driveway where the front and middle of your car sit, you most likely have a transmission fluid leak. Pay attention to signs from your car.
Is it safe to drive when a car is leaking transmission fluid?
While it may not be especially dangerous to drive a vehicle that is leaking transmission fluid, it is not a good idea because the vehicle may not run properly. When considering the safety of driving with a transmission fluid leak, here are some things to know:
What does it mean when your car is leaking fluid?
4. Transmission Fluid Leaks. Automatic transmissions use red or pink fluid, and lots of it. Very often, the first sign of an automatic transmission leaking is that the transmission will start to slip (the car will rev without going into gear). If the leak continues, eventually the car will not move at all.
What causes a transmission pan to leak fluid?
This is because while driving, the pan of your transmission is susceptible to damage from all the loose rocks and debris on the road. If the pan gets a small puncture or there are loose drain plugs or bolts, then a leak can occur. If a big rock or other object were to damage the pan, the transmission will lose fluid quickly.
Can a low fluid level cause a transmission leak?
If you let your transmission operate with a low fluid level, it will cause it to start shifting hard, but eventually will cause permanent damage and could cost thousands to replace. How to fix a transmission leak and avoid high transmission leak repair costs
How much does it cost to repair a transmission fluid leak?
If you have fluid leaking from your transmission, the typical cost to repair the leak (without taking off the transmission) is between $150 and $200.
How to check for leak in automatic transmission?
To check for a leak in your automatic transmission, you can do a visual inspection to try and find the leak point. Here are some of the most likely places to check: Automatic Transmission Leak Points: Drive shaft seal Transmission pan seal Input shaft seal
What does a leak in the differential look like?
Whether the vehicle is a rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, finding leaked fluid in the rear of it indicates a differential leak. The fluid looks like motor oil but has a distinct smell.