Drivers often monitor the temperature of the car engine, ensuring that everything is running correctly, but they rarely take the normal operating automatic transmission temperature into consideration. Despite the importance of the transmission, it’s easy to overlook its basic care.
To ensure your vehicle continues to get you from Point A to Point B, you want to have a well-running engine and transmission. That’s why we are going to look at the temperatures within the transmission and determine the symptoms of an overheated transmission. We will also provide some steps you can take to prevent transmission wear.
What is Normal Automatic Transmission Temperature?
A normal automatic transmission temperature should range from 170 to 225 degrees Fahrenheit. If the transmission is slipping or you are pushing the vehicle hard, the temperature could rise above 240 degrees. However, with every 20-degree drop, your transmission remains better protected.
The temperature inside the torque converter runs the hottest. Sometimes, the temperatures can hit over 350 degrees Fahrenheit while pulling heavier loads.
It can be difficult to monitor the temperature of the transmission fluid because most modern cars don’t come equipped with gauges. Instead, the cars use a Check Engine Light or other warning light to tell you if the transmission is overheating.
Symptoms of Overheating Transmission
1. Burning Smell
The transmission uses gears to create power. This hydraulic system relies on the liquid to properly transfer force. The automatic transmission fluid keeps the system well-lubricated and working at its best. The fluid is also needed to regulate internal temperature.
However, the fluid degrades as it gets older. As it oxidizes, the internal composition begins to break down. When this occurs, the fluid is less capable of reducing the heat and reducing friction. It also makes it easier for the transmission to overheat.
When the transmission fluid is no longer red, you will notice unusual smells coming from under the hood. This darker fluid starts to burn, leading to a strong odor you won’t be able to deny.
2. Slower Response Time
When the fluid levels drop, the temperature won’t be kept in check and the gears won’t operate as they should. Because of this lack of fluid, the gears can’t respond as quickly as normal.
You will notice a delay occurring when the transmission shifts because there isn’t enough fluid to transmit pressure. However, a slower transmission can also be a sign of a mechanical failure that should be diagnosed promptly.
3. Slipping Transmission
When the fluid loses its ability to lubricate the internal components, the gears might slip. The same is true if any contaminants get into the fluid.
However, a slipping transmission is also a sign of worn gears, a failing clutch or malfunctioning transmission bands. To be sure it isn’t a major mechanical issue, you will want to have the transmission evaluated.
4. Limp Mode
Sometimes you notice no symptoms of the overheating transmission until the car goes into a limp mode. This limp-home mode gets activated whenever the onboard computer detects an issue that could cause severe damage to the transmission or engine.
Limp mode reduces the power to ensure there is less of a load on these vital parts. It affords you the opportunity to drive home or to the nearest service center.
Prevent the Transmission from Overheating
Once the transmission overheats, permanent damage can occur. That’s why it’s so important to prevent the transmission from overheating in the first place. Ideally, you will want to install an aftermarket transmission fluid temperature gauge to keep track of what’s happening internally. By knowing when the fluid temperature is rising, you can take quick action to prevent damage.
Additionally, it’s important to check the transmission fluid level often. It should always be topped off and must appear red. If it begins to get darker, you want to change the fluid. In general, most manufacturers recommend changing the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles unless you have a sealed unit. You can find the recommended schedule in your owner’s manual. If you are regularly towing or hauling cargo, you probably push your transmission harder and you might want to change the fluid more frequently.
To increase the efficiency of the transmission, you can install a deeper external pan. This upgraded system allows the transmission to utilize more fluid, which can be helpful if the climate you drive in is hot or if you are pushing your vehicle to extremes. Look for a pan made from aluminum because it dissipates heat better than steel.
On top of that, you need to properly maintain the cooling system of your vehicle because this is vital to the well-being of the transmission. The coolant levels should always be topped off, and you should regularly check for leaks or wear.
Most importantly, if you notice that the car engine or transmission is starting to overheat, pull over and let it cool down. This simple step can save you from more costly repairs later.
Categories: Transmission
