Signs of automatic transmission overheating:
*Check Engine light comes on
* Burnt oil smell
*Transmission slips or does not shift
* Difficulty shifting gears
* Vibration or noise when shifting gears
* Automatic transmission oil turns dark brown or black
Causes of automatic transmission overheating:
*Low Oil Level: Low oil levels cause low system pressure and excessive friction, causing overheating.
* Contaminated oil: Over time, metal particles and dirt accumulate in the automatic transmission oil, which reduces its efficiency and contributes to overheating.
* Pump faults: A faulty oil pump cannot provide sufficient oil flow, resulting in insufficient cooling.
*Cooler Problems: A clogged or faulty transmission cooler cannot remove heat effectively.
* Long periods of driving under severe conditions: Driving with heavy loads, towing a trailer, or driving on inclines may cause the transmission to overheat.
* Faulty Sensors: Faulty sensors can provide incorrect oil temperature readings, resulting in inadequate cooling.
Consequences of automatic transmission overheating:
*Damage to internal gearbox components
* Wear of clutches and gears
* Increased oil wear
*Oil leaks
* In extreme cases – complete gearbox failure
What to do if the automatic transmission overheats:
* Stop in a safe place as soon as possible.
* Turn off the engine and put the car in park.
* Check the automatic transmission oil level and add if necessary.
* Allow the gearbox to cool for at least 30 minutes.
* Have the vehicle towed to a mechanic for diagnosis and repair.