If you're like most modern drivers, you actually know very little about the automobile that you drive. The days of people working on their own cars are pretty much over, thanks to computerized systems that require specialized equipment, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't have a basic understanding of how your car runs and what you need to look out for so you can get it to the repair shop before you find yourself stranded by the side of the road. Unfortunately, many people wouldn't even be able to locate their transmission under the hood of their cars, let alone know when it needs to seen by a qualified transmission repair expert. One of the first indications that something's gone wrong with a transmission is that it begins to leak. Here's what you need to know about leaks in your transmission.

Transmission Fluid is Red

Transmission fluid is a bright red color and is also fairly translucent. It's actually dyed this color by the manufacturer to make it easier to identify leaks — after all, the color red tends to attract attention; you might not even notice a colorless leak on your garage floor, driveway, or any other place you've parked your car. Red fluid on the ground where your car has been parked is a sure sign that you've got transmission troubles. Also, if it's an unusually dark shade of red, this could indicate that the fluid has become burned, which means that your transmission is running too hot. Whatever the reason for the leak, your vehicle can't run without transmission fluid, so be sure to make getting it to the repair shop a priority. This isn't one of those car issues that can wait until next week — trying to drive with a leaky transmission could cost you thousands of dollars in repair or, most likely, replacement costs. 

What Happens if You Drive With a Transmission Leak

As mentioned previously, driving with little or no transmission fluid will result in expensive repairs, at the very least — but you'll probably have to have the part replaced to the tune of thousands of dollars. This is because the fluid is what keeps the hydraulic gears, which make up the heart of the transmission, running smoothly. Without enough of it, the gears themselves will be ruined. Having your car towed to the shop after noticing a serious transmission leak may seem excessive to some people, but it's probably a better way to go — after all, the cost of a tow truck is far less than the cost of a new transmission.

For more information, contact a company like B G & S Transmissions.

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