How to Stop Leaking Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid is used in cars for gear lubrication, valve operation, torque conversion and brake friction. It should be checked every 25,000 miles to ensure that there is no dirt in it. In the case of manual cars, car owners have to regularly check for transmission fluid contamination. This is due to the wear and tear of metallic parts like gears, bearings due to their constant use. Sometimes, the metallic particles end up in the fluid and can affect its ability to lubricate the parts. In the case of automatic cars, the transmission fluid is prone to degradation due to exposure to the heat that is generated during transmission. It then loses the ability to lubricate and gathers contaminants.

Step 1 - Inspect Transmission Fluid 

It is advisable to constantly inspect the level of the transmission fluid. A transmission dip-stick is used to check the level of transmission fluid in the car. If the marker is below the full line, it would indicate that the transmission fluid level is low and that it should be topped up. While doing this, it should be ensured that the car is parked at level only and is not at an incline.  

A leak may be noticed when a puddle of liquid collects at the place of parking. If the liquid is of a brown or red color, it indicates that there is leakage related to transmission fluid. However, if the color is green, then it is probably an engine coolant leak. If it is thin or clear, then gasoline can be the culprit. 

Step 2 - Determine Amount of Leakage 

• Minor leaks: For minor leak where only a few drops have been noticed, high-quality brand of transmission stop-leak that is appropriate for the make and model of the car should be purchased. The transmission dip-stick should be located and the stop-leak should be poured down the tube. The amount poured should be enough to replace the lost fluid and the correct level of the transmission fluid is indicated. 
• Major leaks: For major leaks where a major amount of transmission fluid seems to have leaked, you can take the same step as for the minor leak as a stop-gap measure. However, at the end you would need to take it to the car mechanic to get the problem fixed. 

Step 3 - Preventive Measures 

• Create reminders for yourself when you should check the transmission level and condition. This should be done at regular intervals.
• The transmission fluid should be changed as suggested in the owner’s manual.
• The same type of transmission fluid should be used as recommended in the manual.
• You should go to the car dealer as the dealer has original parts and know exactly what is required according to the make and model of the car. While communicating with the car dealer/mechanic, you should be as detailed as possible about the problem.
• Reversing or parking should only be done after a car has come to a full stop.
• Parking area should be regularly checked for any leaks.