Vehicle Overheating

By Mister Transmission

Contaminated or burnt fluid that contains particles can indicate overheating problems in the transmission.

An overheated vehicle is a common cause of mechanical breakdown and can be the cause of significant engine and transmission damage, therefore establishing the problem associated with the overheating is important for maintaining a well-running vehicle.

What’s that smell?

If a driver while running a vehicle smells something burning while driving, it could be a sign of a transmission that is overheating or leaking transmission fluid onto the exhaust. The transmission fluid is what keeps the moving parts in the transmission lubricated, as well as providing a cooling system for the transmission to prevent it from burning out.

Transmission fluid should be a translucent reddish brown color. Contaminated or burnt fluid that has particles in it can indicate problems in the transmission from overheating. If the fluid has a varnished look it is an indication of repeated overheating of the transmission.

Use the dipstick test

Drivers can check their fluid color by taking out the dipstick, cleaning it with a cloth and then re-inserting it into the fluid chamber. If the transmission fluid has any particles in it, than the driver should have a transmission expert check the vehicle and change the fluid. Driving with particles in transmission fluid can cause the transmission filter to become clogged, so draining and replacing the transmission fluid can sometimes solve overheating problems. However, other times the fluid color is an indication of bigger transmission problems. Make sure your transmission expert knows of your problems to ensure your vehicle continues to run optimally.

Clutch problems can cause transmission problems, which lead to overheating. The clutch, which is located within the torque converter, can become jammed. If the clutch is jammed, the solenoid can also become locked which means that the amount of transmission fluid needed could be incorrectly calculated and problems similar to low fluid levels can occur. Violent shaking of the car as well as producing high heat and a lower power output can result if this jam occurs.

What to know when towing

When a vehicle is towing anything or has been running at high speeds in warmer temperatures the transmission fluid should be checked regularly as anything that adds extra stress to the engine can cause transmission fluid to overheat. Rocking a car after it has become stuck in sand or snow can also cause high levels of heat in the transmission and engine in a short period of time. Digging out a vehicle or towing is the best option for your transmission. Warming up a vehicle so that the fluid is at optimal operating temperature is also recommended.

If a vehicle is towed, ensure that it is correctly done! Rear wheel vehicles must be towed with the rear wheels off of the ground, and front wheel vehicles with the front wheels off of the ground. Four-wheel drive vehicles should have no wheels on the ground. Improper towing can cause serious damage to the transmission, so make sure to check the owner’s manual before hooking up the vehicle.

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Customer Reviews
Had outstanding service from this...
Tim V
Had outstanding service from this shop, particularly the Manager George S. who is about one the nicest individuals you will ever meet. He put me at ease for what was suspected to be a very large issue as diagnosed from another shop. In the end, it was another issue entirely, one significantly more affordable than expected. George was prompt with follow ups, went the distance to find a new part, and had me back on the road in a few days. George is a gem, and the work done at the shop was top notch. Highly recommend for any transmission/driveline issues.
Date: March 31, 2023
Website: Google
Would like to say I...
Jon F
Would like to say I was pleased with the service I received. They towed my vehicle in as I was unable to get it in under its own power. I assumed it was a transmission or transfer case issue, but it ended up being a broken axle that caused my grief. After they were able to get it rolling again they did a courtesy check of the engine / drive train to make sure they didn't miss something else, and noted a couple of other items that could become bigger problems down the road. They were able to repair those for me as well. Darren was very professional and polite. They got the truck in and out in a very respectable time frame, and they were very close to the estimated cost when I was paying the bill. I actually paid a couple C notes less. Overall would recommend you guys, as you do more an just transmissions, you guy take care of it all. Thanks again!
Date: March 31, 2023
Website: Google
Amazing customer service and professionalism...
Doug Lane
Amazing customer service and professionalism at this business.
Date: March 31, 2023
Website: Google
Ken is great tech and...
阿哲
Ken is great tech and helped me fixed my car! Thank you so much!
Date: March 31, 2023
Website: Google
Raman is a great mechanic...
Tim Togeretz
Raman is a great mechanic and business owner, what ever jobs i send him they are always done professionally and with pride.
Date: March 30, 2023
Website: Google
A great dealership to work...
KIM KUEHL
A great dealership to work with. Will recommend to everyone I know that needs transmission work done!!
Date: March 29, 2023
Website: Google
We had purchased a used...
Jennifer Lock
We had purchased a used honda civic from a used car dealership for our son to commute to university. Just our luck not even 3 months later a check engine light was on as well as a flashing D light and check transmission on the information Center console. We had taken it to a reputable dealership on Mapleview drive to get it diagnosed, after a full service that included a transmission fluid service the technician told us that he would erase the code and if the code came back to find a transmission shop . Well the code came back! I had called several local garages and was told that they don’t work on Honda civic C V T transmission. Luckily I called “Al” at (mister transmission Barrie) I told “Al” the history and he said to bring the civic to Essa road location and where he can diagnose it for free . Al gave me an Honest diagnosis with a break down of how much it would cost . And within a week we had a total rebuilt transmission and I feel he was a trustworthy person to deal with no matter what transmission problems you have even if it’s a Honda C V T .
Date: March 29, 2023
Website: Google
So i was basically trying...
Burak Ozbek
So i was basically trying to figure out if Honda CVTs were reliable. I was doing research and decided to call this place to see if they could humour me briefly. The guy i spoke to, cant remember his name, 43 years old, very friendly, told me everything i needed to know, clearly takes customer service very seriously and was willing to HAVE A CONVERSATION which no one does anymore. Will be going here for everything from now on. And if you want to know, without insulting other car makers, toyota and honda are the usual suspects for reliable CVTs.
Date: March 29, 2023
Website: Google
Many Thanks to all the...
Nadiia Kaidan
Many Thanks to all the team.
Date: March 28, 2023
Website: Google
Professional transmission rebuilt
Max XIAO
Professional transmission rebuilt
Date: March 27, 2023
Website: Google
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