Automatic Transmission Troubleshooting

The Problem - Is Caused By - What To Do

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Fluid leakage
Defective pan gasket
Replace gasket or tighten pan bolts
Loose filler tube Tighten tube nut
Loose extension housing to transmission case Tighten bolts
Converter housing area leakage Have transmission checked professionally

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Fluid flows out the oil filler tube
High fluid level Check and correct fluid level
Breather vent clogged Open breather vent
Clogged oil filter or screen Replace filter or clean screen (change fluid also)
Internal fluid leakage Have transmission checked professionally

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Transmission overheats (this is usually accompanied by a strong burned odor to the fluid)
Low fluid level Check and correct fluid level
Fluid cooler lines clogged Drain and refill transmission. If this doesn't cure the problem, have cooler lines cleared or replaced.
Heavy pulling or hauling with insufficient cooling Install a transmission oil cooler
Faulty oil pump, internal slippage Have transmission checked professionally

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Buzzing or whining noise
Low fluid level Check and correct fluid level
Defective torque converter, scored gears Have transmission checked professionally

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No forward or reverse gears or slippage in one or more gears Low fluid level Check and correct fluid level
Defective vacuum or linkage controls, internal clutch or band failure Have unit checked professionally

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Delayed or erratic shift
Low fluid level Check and correct fluid level
Broken vacuum lines Repair or replace lines
Internal malfunction Have transmission checked professionally