Transmission fluid is crucial for the proper functioning of your vehicle's transmission system. It lubricates the moving parts, cools the transmission, and helps with the power transfer between the engine and wheels. However, if your vehicle develops a transmission fluid leak, it can lead to a range of serious issues. At Hirst Transmission Specialists, we provide expert transmission leak detection and repair in the greater Pensacola area. Here are four problems that can arise from transmission fluid leaks.

Overheating Transmission

Transmission fluid cools the transmission by absorbing heat and carrying it away from the moving parts. When there’s a leak, the fluid level drops, which reduces its ability to cool the system. This can cause the transmission to overheat, leading to severe damage to the internal components. Overheating may eventually result in transmission failure, requiring expensive repairs or a full replacement.

Poor Shifting Performance

The transmission fluid plays a critical role in ensuring smooth gear changes. When there’s a leak, the fluid level decreases, which can lead to delayed or rough shifting. You might experience slipping, where the transmission struggles to stay in gear, or it might take longer for the vehicle to shift between gears. 

Transmission Slippage

Transmission slippage occurs when the transmission fails to engage properly, causing a loss of power to the wheels. Low transmission fluid levels due to a leak can lead to slippage, making it difficult for your vehicle to maintain speed or accelerate effectively. This issue can be dangerous, especially when driving in traffic or merging/passing on freeways.

Complete Transmission Failure

If a transmission fluid leak goes unchecked for too long, it can ultimately lead to complete transmission failure. When the fluid level becomes critically low, the transmission's internal components can seize up, rendering the vehicle undrivable. At this point, the solution is to replace the transmission, which is very expensive. Regularly checking for and addressing transmission fluid leaks can help prevent this catastrophic outcome.

Transmission Repair in Pensacola, FL

For transmission repair in Pensacola and the surrounding area, contact Hirst Transmission Specialists at (850) 478-3395. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!