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.