The transmission is responsible for shifting gears and providing the power needed to drive safely. If it overheats, you’ll likely experience problems that require transmission repair. Learn more about overheating so you know how to take care of your transmission.

Causes

Fluid cools and lubricates the moving parts of the transmission, so if it runs low or breaks down, the component will start to overheat. Ineffective fluid can also cause the transmission to slip, which makes driving difficult. A defective solenoid can likewise contribute to overheating. The solenoid is an electrical component that regulates how much fluid passes through to the transmission.

Your driving habits make a difference as well. Frequently hauling heavy loads puts a significant burden on the transmission to supply the towing power. If you travel in traffic, the stop-and-go driving stresses the transmission. Extremely hot weather raises the vehicle’s interior temperature, which will affect the transmission, especially when combined with these driving habits.

Prevention

To prevent overheating and the need for transmission repairs, check the transmission fluid as part of your vehicle’s regular maintenance. Fresh fluid is bright red that gets darker as it loses effectiveness. Look at the level of the fluid and check if fluid appears dirty, dark, or smells burnt. These may be signs that your transmission should be inspected. 

Change your transmission fluid regularly according to your owner’s manual—typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Installing a transmission cooler is also helpful if you often tow heavy loads.

If you’re dealing with an overheating transmission, the experts at Pearl City Transmission in Waipio Gentry, HI, are here to help. The ASE®-certified technicians have served the island of Oahu for the past 40 years. They handle both automatic and manual transmission repairs, inspections, and maintenance. Visit their website to find out more about their services, or get an estimate for transmission repair by calling (808) 671-8767.