Reasons for Transmission Fluid Leaks include Broken Seals

The transmission is one of the most important components of your vehicle. If you spot a leak— an oily, red fluid present on the ground toward the front, middle of your vehicle—it’s important to have the leak fixed. Running out of transmission fluid can lead to a burnt-up transmission.

Reasons for Transmission Fluid Leaks

Automotive Corporation advises that transmission fluid leaks are more common in front-wheel drive vehicles than in rear-wheel drive vehicles. Rear-wheel drive vehicles include many BMW and Mercedes-Benz models, as well as high-performance cars like the Dodge Challenger, Ford Mustang, and Tesla Model S. Many SUVs are also rear-wheel drive like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota 4Runner, and Chevy Suburban. Compact to mid-size cars typically have front-wheel drive. With that in mind, here are reasons for transmission fluid leaks.

  • Loose or cracked transmission pan gasket The pan gasket can become loose if the bolts weren’t tightened after a filter was replaced, according to CarsDirect. A cracked pan gasket can cause transmission fluid to leak as well. The website says both issues are an easy fix and that they should not be left untreated.
  • Unsecured drain plugs If drain plugs are not secured properly after “changing or flushing the transmission fluid,” according to CarsDirect, the plugs can leak.
  • The transmission’s torque converter The torque converter is a hydraulic pump and it is the part of the transmission that creates pressure to move fluid through the system, according to CarsDirect. Cracks or faulty needle bearings can cause the torque converter to leak.
  • Punctured transmission fluid lines The fluid lines can become damaged from road debris. CarsDirect advises that the lines are made of steel or aluminum, but that they can become damaged from driving on poorly paved roads.
  • Non-working seal There are several seals connected to the transmission system. The transmission fluid can leak if any of these seals are broken or not properly secured, according to SimpleCarAnswers.