The transmission pan gasket is a seal placed between the pan and the transmission housing. Its primary function is to prevent the leakage of transmission fluid. The pan gasket is used in both manual and automatic transmissions.
Depending on the type of transmission, gaskets come in various sizes and may be made from different materials, such as rubber, cork, rubber-metal composites, and those reinforced with steel.
Over time, due to the effects of oil and temperature, the material from which the gaskets are made can degrade, specifically harden, develop cracks, and gradually allow oil to seep through. This can be quite dangerous since, for the transmission to work flawlessly, its components must be well-lubricated, protected from corrosion and contaminants, and shielded from overheating.
Identifying a combination of these signs indicates an urgent need for repair. If delayed, it can cause significant damage to the transmission. Even if you consistently top up the oil in the sump, you won't be able to maintain steady pressure in the system. At some point, the transmission will forcibly expel all the oil, and it might seize up at an inopportune moment.
If you're unsure about your capabilities and doubt that you can handle the issue on your own, the best solution would be to visit a repair shop where they can replace the gasket and stop the leak swiftly and hassle-free. This can prevent more severe transmission issues. Auto service professionals will also perform a diagnosis to identify the root cause of the problem, helping to avoid recurrent issues after the gasket replacement. They possess not only the necessary skills but also specialized equipment and tools to carry out the job efficiently and effectively.
Furthermore, if you encounter this problem, it's advisable to avoid aggressive driving styles to prevent placing additional strain on the transmission. This will help to prevent further damage and maintain the vehicle's functionality.
The transmission feels like slipping because its fluid level is low. However, in rarer cases, it can be an issue with a worn valve body, a faulty solenoid, a worn clutch, or damage to the transmission module itself.
Whether you drive an automatic or a manual, your vehicle's transmission is critical. If the transmission slips or gets stuck in gear, you lose control of your speed and risk stalling out on the road.
When they work correctly, automatic transmissions shift seamlessly with acceleration or deceleration. However, if you're low on fluid, there is wear on the discs, or if there is some other disturbance, your automatic transmission might get stuck in gear, shift gears at the wrong time, or cause your car to die altogether. All in all, you might end up facing an annoying issue: slipping transmission.
Some transmission problems require simple solutions like a fluid refill or valve replacement. But, regardless of the problem, it's wise to take action. Manual and automatic transmission slipping can worsen as you drive, causing extra damage to the system or putting unnecessary strain on your engine as it cranks through RPMs without generating power.