How Car Transmission Lines Work
Automatic transmissions generate a lot of heat. Transmission cooling lines keep things cool but they’re susceptible to being damaged
Car transmission lines connect your vehicle’s transmission to the vehicle’s radiator. Also known as transmission cooling lines, they are typically made of metal or composite aluminium and rubber hoses because they can handle the flow of hot transmission fluid.
Your car’s transmission lines are essential to preventing the transmission from overheating by carrying hot fluid away from the transmission until it is cooled and subsequently pumped back into the transmission.
If your car’s transmission lines are damaged, they will leak, and that can lead to serious trouble if you don’t notice your car bleeding transmission fluid. But here’s the problem: most automotive transmission lines are particularly susceptible to damage or rupture owing to the fact they are exposed on the underside of your car to the weather, and to debris on the road.
How to Spot Car Transmission Line Problems
If your car’s transmission cooling lines are leaking, it’s not difficult to detect. The most obvious sign is if there’s red fluid pooling beneath your engine where you park your vehicle.
Other noteworthy warning signs that your transmission cooling lines may be leaking include:
- You’re having trouble shifting into gear; the gears are slipping, or are shifting slowly
- Your transmission is overheating, or you notice an unpleasant burning smell
- You hear grinding or whining noises when gears change or the vehicle rattles or jerks when you drive
- The “service engine soon” indicator on your dashboard lights up
If you suspect your vehicle’s transmission cooling lines are leaking, or if you have questions about preventative transmission maintenance, contact us. Take advantage of our free 21-point multi-check inspection and avoid the cost and aggravation associated with a failing transmission.
