If you’ve spotted fluid under your vehicle that’s reddish or dark in color, you could be dealing with a transmission leak.
At Fremont Foreign Auto, we work with drivers in Newark to spot transmission problems early, explain what’s causing them, and figure out whether the leak can be fixed or if deeper repairs are needed. Transmission issues can sound expensive, but many leaks start small and are totally repairable if caught early.
Here’s what you need to know.
How Transmission Leaks Happen
Gaskets and seals start to break down as the car ages and are the main cause of leaks. Transmission pans can also get damaged by road debris or corrosion. Another frequent issue is damage or cracks in the cooler lines, which carry fluid to and from the radiator to keep it at the right temperature.
Even small impacts or previous repairs can lead to stress around the pan or housing, eventually causing leaks if not addressed.
How to Know If You Have a Leak
One of the clearest signs is fresh fluid under the vehicle. Another is the car hesitating between gears, slipping while accelerating, or shifting harder than usual. A drop in fluid level can cause heat to build up, which leads to even more wear inside the transmission. Some vehicles will also trigger a warning light or show a transmission-related message on the dashboard.
Can a Transmission Leak Be Fixed?
In many cases, yes. If the leak is coming from a gasket, seal, pan, or line, we can replace just the affected parts without touching the transmission itself. We use quality parts and reseal everything properly so the leak doesn’t come back.
We also clean the area and test for additional leaks, since fluid can travel and make the source hard to pinpoint. The goal is to stop the leak for good without replacing more than necessary.
When a Replacement Might Be Needed
If the leak has gone unnoticed for too long or the transmission has been run with low fluid, internal components may start to fail. In that case, the problem isn’t just the leak, it’s the damage it caused. At that point, a rebuild or full replacement may be needed.
Spot a Leak? Let’s Take a Look
At Fremont Foreign Auto, we help drivers stay ahead of major transmission problems by catching the small ones early. Give us a call to schedule an appointment to take a look so we can get your car back on the road and running smoothly.