5 Transmission Overheating Symptoms: Causes, Fixes, And ...

• Matija Pinko

Updated on September 16, 2022

If your car seems to be running hotter than normal, it may be a sign that your transmission is overheating. This can be a serious problem, and if not fixed quickly, can lead to extensive damage.

The most common transmission overheating symptoms are higher than normal temperature, the gears don’t shift well, transmission slipping, sluggish shifting, and the smell of burning oil.

The problem can be solved or avoided by regularly replacing the transmission fluid and not overstepping the towing and hauling limits.

In this blog post, we will discuss the five most common symptoms of transmission overheating, as well as some possible causes and fixes. We will also provide some tips on how to prevent your transmission from overheating in the first place!

What’s the Role of the Transmission in a Car?

A transmission is a gearbox that connects the engine to the drivetrain and changes gears depending on the speed of the vehicle. It allows the engine to run at different speeds while providing power to the wheels.

The transmission is an important part of a car’s drivetrain and helps to ensure that the car runs smoothly and efficiently. There are many different types of transmissions, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Automatic transmissions are the most common type of transmission, but manual transmissions are also available.

CVTs, or continuously variable transmissions, are becoming more popular in recent years. Each type of transmission has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to choose the right one for your car.

Types of Transmissions

There are several different types of transmissions, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Automatic Transmissions

Automatic transmissions are the most common type of transmission. They use a series of gears to transfer power from the engine to the wheels, but they don’t require the driver to manually change gears.

Automatic transmissions are typically more fuel-efficient than manual transmissions, but they can be more expensive to repair.

CVT Transmissions

CVT, or continuously variable transmission, is a type of automatic transmission that uses a pulley and belt system instead of gears to transfer power from the engine to the wheels.

CVTs are becoming increasingly popular in recent years because they’re more fuel-efficient than traditional automatic transmissions. However, CVTs can be more expensive to repair and may not be available on all cars.

Manual Transmissions

Manual transmissions are less common than automatic transmissions in the US, but they’re still available on some cars. Manual transmissions use a series of gears to transfer power from the engine to the wheels, and the driver must manually change gears as the speed of the car changes.

Many people prefer automatic transmissions because they’re easier to use, but manual transmissions are often preferred by experienced drivers and those who want more control over their car’s performance.

Can a Transmission Overheat?

Yes, a transmission can overheat. If the fluid level is low, there may not be enough liquid to help cool the gears. The transmission may also overheat if it is worked too hard, such as when towing a heavy load. Overheating can cause the transmission to break down and may even damage the engine.

5 Transmission Overheating Symptoms

If your car’s transmission is overheating, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:

1. The engine temperature gauge is higher than normal
2. The engine revs but the car doesn’t move as quickly as usual
3. The car hesitates or “slips” when shifting gears
4. Shifting gears feels delayed or sluggish
5. There is a burning smell coming from under the hood

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to take action immediately. Overheating can cause extensive damage to your car’s transmission, and if left unchecked, can even damage the engine.

What Causes Transmission Overheating?

There are a few different reasons why your transmission may overheat. The most common reason is due to the transmission fluid being low or dirty.

If the fluid is low, it can cause the gears to slip and grind, which creates friction and heat. This can damage the transmission and cause it to overheat.

If the fluid is dirty, it can also cause the same problems. It is important to check your transmission fluid level regularly and have it changed if necessary.

Other causes of transmission overheating include:

1. Driving in stop-and-go traffic: This can cause the transmission to work harder than normal, which generates heat.
2. Towing a heavy load: This puts additional strain on the transmission, causing it to overheat.
3. Climbing hills: This can also cause the transmission to work harder than normal.
4. Hot weather: Extremely hot weather can cause the transmission fluid to break down, leading to overheating.

If your transmission overheats, it is important to have it checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Overheating can damage the transmission and lead to costly repairs.

How to Fix Transmission Overheating?

If your transmission is overheating, it is important to take care of the problem as soon as possible. Transmission fluid helps to keep your transmission cool and lubricated, so if it starts to overheat, it can cause serious damage to your transmission.

There are a few things that can cause your transmission to overheat, such as:

• Low Transmission Fluid Level: If your transmission fluid level is low, it will not be able to do its job properly and will start to overheat. You should check your transmission fluid level regularly and top it off if necessary.
• Leaking Transmission Fluid: If your transmission fluid is leaking, it will also cause your transmission to overheat. You should check for leaks and have them repaired as soon as possible.
• Dirty Transmission Fluid: If your transmission fluid is dirty, it will not be able to do its job properly and will start to overheat. You should have your transmission flushed and refilled with fresh fluid.
• Cooling System Problems: If your cooling system is not working properly, it can cause your transmission to overheat. You should have your cooling system checked and repaired if necessary.

If your transmission is overheating, you should take it to a mechanic as soon as possible to have it checked out and repaired if necessary. Ignoring the problem can cause serious damage to your transmission.

How to Prevent Transmission Overheating?

There are a few things you can do to help prevent your transmission from overheating:

• Check the fluid level regularly and add fluid if necessary.
• Get the transmission serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations
• Avoid driving in stop-and-go traffic whenever possible.
• Avoid towing a heavy load unless absolutely necessary.
• Take it easy when climbing hills.

By following these simple tips, you can help prevent your transmission from overheating and avoid costly repairs.

What Tools Do I Need to Replace Transmission Fluid?

In order to replace your transmission fluid, you will need a few tools.

• First, you will need a drain pan. This will be used to catch the old fluid as it drains out of your transmission.
• You will also need a funnel and some fresh transmission fluid. Be sure to check your owner’s manual for the specific type of fluid that is recommended for your vehicle.
• You will also need a wrench or socket set in order to remove the drain plug from your transmission.
• Finally, you may want to have some rags on hand to clean up any spills.

How to Replace Transmission Fluid?

With these tools in hand, you are now ready to replace your transmission fluid. Begin by parking your vehicle on a level surface and engaging the emergency brake. Next, locate the transmission drain plug.

The location of the drain plug will vary depending on your vehicle, but it is always located near the bottom of the transmission. Once you have found the drain plug, use your wrench or socket to remove it. Old fluid will begin to drain out immediately.

Let the fluid drain until it runs clear, then re-install the drain plug. Now it’s time to add new fluid to your transmission. With the funnel, add fresh fluid to the fill hole until it reaches the full line on your dipstick.

Be sure to check your owner’s manual for capacity and type of fluid required. Once you have added enough fluid, start your engine and let it run for a few minutes.

With the engine running, check the fluid level again and add more if necessary. Once the level is correct, you are finished! Be sure to dispose of your old transmission fluid properly.

How to Fix Transmission Leaks?

If you have a transmission leak, the first thing you should do is locate the source of the leak. Once you have found the leak, it can be repaired in a few different ways.

One way to repair a small leak is to simply add some sealant to the area and allow it to dry. This will temporarily seal the leak and give you some time to get it properly fixed.

Another way to repair a leaking transmission is to replace the seals or gaskets that are causing the leak. This is a more permanent fix but will require some mechanical knowledge and experience.

If you are not confident in your ability to make these repairs, take your vehicle to a mechanic or Transmission Repair specialist. They will be able to fix the leak quickly and get you back on the road.

FAQs

How Often Should You Replace Transmission Fluid?

Most manufacturers recommend that you replace your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, if you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic or in extreme hot or cold weather conditions, you may need to replace it more often.

What Are Types of Transmission Fluid?

The most common type of transmission fluid is automatic transmission fluid (ATF). ATF is a hydraulic fluid that helps to lubricate, cool, and clean the moving parts in your transmission.

Another type of transmission fluid is manual transmission fluid (MTF). MTF is a thicker oil that helps to lubricate the gears in your manual transmission.

Finally, there is gear oil, which is used to lubricate the gears in both manual and automatic transmissions. Gear oil is usually thicker than ATF or MTF.

Is There Performance Transmission Fluid?

Yes, there are performance transmission fluids that can help improve the shift quality and overall performance of your transmission. However, these fluids are generally not necessary unless you are doing some serious racing or towing.

If your car has an automatic transmission, one of the most important things you can do to prolong its life is to regularly check and maintain the fluid level. Transmission fluid keeps the moving parts in your transmission cool and lubricated and prevents premature wear.

Checking the fluid level is easy to do and only takes a few minutes. First, park your car on a level surface and turn off the engine. Then, locate the dipstick (usually it will have a picture of a transmission next to it) and pull it out.

Wipe the dipstick off with a clean rag and reinsert it. Then, pull it out again and check the fluid level. The fluid should be at or near the “full” line on the dipstick. If it is low, add more transmission fluid until it reaches the proper level.

Is All Transmission Fluid the Same?

No, all transmission fluid is not the same. Be sure to check your owner’s manual for the specific type of fluid that is recommended for your vehicle.

If you are unsure, you can always take your car to a mechanic and they will be able to help you determine the right type of fluid for your car.

What Color Is Transmission Fluid?

Transmission fluid is typically colored red or pink. However, it can also be brown or black if it is old or has been contaminated. If you notice that your transmission fluid is dark in color, it is probably time to have it replaced.

Conclusion

The most common transmission overheat symptoms are elevated temperatures, difficulty shifting, engine revs but the car doesn’t accelerate, shifting feels sluggish, and the smell of burning transmission fluid.

There are a few things you can do to help prevent your transmission from overheating:

• Check the fluid level regularly and add fluid if necessary
• Have the transmission serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations
• Avoid driving in stop-and-go traffic whenever possible
• Avoid towing a heavy load unless absolutely necessary
• Take it easy when climbing hills.

Get more tips from us by checking out these posts:

Transmission Hot Idle Engine: Meaning, Causes & Fixes

Transmission Overfilled By 1 Quart: Symptoms & What To Do

Transmission Not Shifting Out Of First Gear? – Here’s What You Should Do