If you have red spots underneath the center of your automobile, your transmission is leaking. LP & Sons Auto Care advises that the transmission fluid can leak out of the transmission pan, the seals or gaskets, the torque converter, or the transmission hoses. It’s important to get any transmission leak repaired as soon as possible because driving your automobile with low transmission fluid will cause it to overheat. It’s also important to get your transmission fluid changed every 30,000 miles. Let’s talk more about this below.
Bright Red
The color of your transmission fluid is an indicator of when it needs to be changed. If the fluid is bright red or red and translucent, it does not need to be changed yet because it is still doing its job. This fluid is healthy. It is protecting the transmission and drawing heat away from the moving parts as well as helping the transmission shift gears.
Light Brown
Once the fluid turns light brown, it is starting to age. This color, however, still is an indication of healthy transmission fluid. Transmission fluid that is translucent and light brown can go a little longer before it needs to be changed. This fluid is still protecting the transmission and helping it shift gears.
Orange
The same is true for orange transmission fluid. Some transmission fluids look more orange than light brown as they age. Again, if the fluid is orange and translucent, it’s still okay and does not need to be changed quite yet. You should plan for a transmission fluid flush and refill soon, however.
Brown
Brown transmission fluid needs to be changed. Once the fluid turns brown, it has aged beyond its ability to do its job and is beginning to oxidize. Oxidation occurs when tiny air bubbles fill the transmission fluid. These bubbles prevent the transmission fluid from doing its job appropriately.
Dark Brown
If you don’t get your fluid changed when it is brown, it will turn dark brown or black because it is completely oxidized. This opaque fluid is no longer protecting the transmission. You will also notice signs of transmission problems such as burning smells, difficulty changing gears, and slipping out of gear.
Pink
Finally, pink transmission fluid is an indication that you have a leak between the cooling system and the transmission. The reason why the fluid is pink is that it is diluted with engine coolant. This is devastating to the transmission.
LP & Sons Auto Care in DeLand, FL, would be happy to inspect your transmission if it is leaking or there is another problem. Call us today to set up a service appointment.