If your vehicle has a conventional automatic transmission that is maintained through routine service, then you may not be familiar with the alternative: a sealed transmission. Many modern cars have sealed transmissions, which can lead drivers to believe that they’re in the clear and will never have to stress about this one important part of their vehicle’s drivetrain. But that belief is just one of the mistakes people make when it comes to these specialized systems.
There are times when a sealed transmission may need service, especially if the fluid begins to leak or eventually needs replacing. Turning a blind eye to these issues can get very expensive later. Other mistakes include using the wrong transmission fluid or failing to consider how extreme temperatures can affect a sealed transmission. Even checking the fluid can be more complicated than expected because sealed transmissions don’t have the easily accessible dipstick found in many conventional automatics.
Believing that you can service a sealed transmission on your own is perhaps the biggest mistake you can make. Unless you have experience and the know-how to tackle the job, it’s best left to a professional. However, that does not mean that just any mechanic can handle the work either. Transmission work often calls for dedicated equipment, software, and training that some shops may not have. So if your sealed transmission needs service, be sure you take it to a qualified technician.
The wrong fluid, harsh weather, and leaks take their toll
Because it doesn’t have a dipstick, a sealed transmission needs to be accessed from underneath the vehicle. This can be tricky, as the exact procedures for checking or changing the fluid are complex and better left to a pro. The right fluid also needs to be used, as it has to match the manufacturer’s exact specification, and a generic formula may not be compatible. With the wrong fluid, a sealed transmission can start to slip or shift erratically, and it could eventually fail.
Even with the right fluid, outside temperatures can have a major impact. Scorching summer heat and bitter cold weather can wear out a sealed transmission’s fluid sooner than you may think. Since there’s no quick way to check the fluid, you may not find out it’s degraded until the transmission starts acting up. This is another good reason to have your transmission serviced, especially if you suspect a problem.
Failing to address a sealed transmission leak can potentially cost you in the long run. In fact, putting off a fluid service that typically costs a few hundred dollars when the issue first appears could leave you facing a replacement running $3,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on the transmission. The longer you wait, the higher the bill could be, which is why it’s best to have the transmission inspected by a professional as early as possible.