​​Transmission Temperature

The Bulb Check: ​​​​​​​Transmission Temperature

​​​​​​​​Transmission is operating at higher than optimum temperature as transmission fluid is hotter than normal. Check transmission fluid level and engine coolant level.

​​What to Do: ​​​​​​​Transmission Temperature

​​​​​Check transmission fluid level and engine coolant level. Most automatic transmissions have a in-line cooler made into the system. Many vehicles have the cooler mixed in with the radiator, meaning that the cooling lines go through the radiator. 

​If engine coolant (Anti-Freeze) somehow leaks into the transmission fluid through the cooler, this can cause the transmission to run hotter than normal. May also cause the transmission to shift rough or slip.

​Some vehicles, especially trucks or off-road type vehicles have a separate transmission cooler, it looks like a small radiator. If any type of debris or trash such as a piece of cardboard or a plastic bag that might have been picked up off the road is covering this cooler, this can also make the transmission run hotter than normal.

​Ensure that the proper transmission fluid ​is used, not all transmissions use the same fluid. There are may different types that vary on oil weight and chemical composition. The incorrect fluid can also cause a transmission to run hotter than normal, cause rough shifting and slippage.