Your vehicle's transmission, whether manual or automatic, is a critical component that transfers power from your engine to the wheels that drive you down the road. Filled with a complex array of moving metal parts and gears, your transmission is like your engine in that it needs a fresh supply of clean, purpose-built fluid always flowing through it to keep it lubricated, cool, and moving power efficiently.

Transmission fluid, like the motor oil in an engine, can be checked with a dipstick with the hood lifted and should be monitored for quality and quantity on a semi regular basis. Although it has a much longer lifespan than motor oil, it is susceptible to some of the same issues, like collecting dirt and debris or experiencing leaks.

A transmission fluid leak is a serious issue that should be addressed quickly. If left unattended, leaking transmission fluid can lead to catastrophic failure of the entire system. The fluid in your transmission not only keeps things lubricated, but it helps dissipate heat while also forming a protective layer between parts that keeps them moving without grinding against each other.

In this article, we'll discuss some of the symptoms of low or leaky transmission fluid and suggest some ways you can deal with them.

HOW CAN I TELL IF I HAVE A TRANSMISSION FLUID LEAK?
Identifying transmission leaks can sometimes be difficult, but by keeping these 3 common signs in mind, you'll be able to address the problem as soon as you notice it.

• Fluid Underneath Your Car: If you notice a puddle of red or brownish fluid underneath your car, this could be a sign of a transmission fluid leak when parked. Some coolants are also dyed red, so the transmission may not be leaking, but in either case be sure to see your mechanic to avoid larger problems.
• Low Fluid: Get in the habit of regularly checking your transmission fluid with the dipstick. If you notice low fluid, this could be symptom of a leak. Refill with fresh fluid and continue to monitor levels. If they drop again, see your mechanic.
• Noises, Smells, or Rough Driving: While driving your vehicle, if you start to notice humming noises, burning smells, or rough shifting that seems out of place, this could be due to a leaky transmission. Any of these symptoms should be checked out by a mechanic quickly.

Your transmission is vital to the functioning of your vehicle and repairs can be very costly, sometimes totaling a vehicle. A leaky transmission not only drains your transmission fluid, but it also can allow dirt and debris into one of the most sensitive and critical components of your engine. One that keeps your vehicle running reliably. If you take care of your transmission by regularly monitoring it for leaks and addressing issues with your mechanic as they become apparent, except in extreme cases, it should have no problem lasting you the life of your vehicle.