3 Signs of a Bad Transmission Pump

The transmission pump is an oil pump that pumps transmission fluid through the valve body which in turn, controls the clutches and the bands and these control the planetary gear sets. Should the transmission pump begin to fail it will become apparent in the following ways.

1. Engine Temperature

When the pump begins to fail, the engine is starved of fluid which cools it down and lubricates its moving parts. When this is absent, the moving parts create friction and friction creates heat and the temperature of the engine increases. This one of the first signs the transmission pump is failing.

2. Noise

The increased friction and vibration of the engine increases the noise level at which it operates. Dirty filters in the oil pump also contribute to increased noise in the valve system as oil spillages occur and less lubricating fluid is circulated. Sounds to listen out for are blowing and whirring.

3. Frequent Dashboard Light

Nearly every car has an indicator on the dashboard to show the oil is low. If this persistently illuminates then this could be a sign that the pump is beginning to fail and warrants further investigation. Note, this may not be due to the transmission pump, but whether the oil pump is faulty or not, a persistent oil light warrants further investigation.