Transmission problems are always a nightmare for any Toyota owner, and an overheating transmission is one of the worst things that could happen to your 4×4 vehicle. If your car’s transmission becomes hot, it is advisable to fix the problem immediately to prevent more complications. Here is a checklist of what to do if you are in such a situation as this.
How Transmission Overheating Happens
The transmission plays a very vital role in transmitting power from the engine to the wheels so that your car can be in motion. It has many components that move relative to each other and cause friction, thereby getting hot. Usually, the transmission fluid has the duties of cooling and lubing these parts. But if the fluid levels are low or the fluid is really old and broken down, the transmission can overheat.
Signs of Transmission Overheating
There are several signs that can help you to know if your Toyota transmission is overheating. One of the most obvious ones is a burning smell, which is a sign that the transmission fluid is getting too hot or touching very hot engine components. You might also observe slipping gears where the car changes gears on its own or when it has a hard time shifting gears.
Another sign is delayed shifting which means that when you shift gears, it takes a long time for the change to occur. Most new generation cars have a transmission temperature warning light that lights up if the temperature of the transmission gets high. Identifying these signs early enough when they arise could save your transmission from further damage and keep your car safe to use.
Steps to Take When Toyota Transmission Overheats
- Pull Over Safely: If you experience or notice any signs of overheating in your SUV transmission, find a way to leave the road and park the car. Driving it further is likely to cause extensive damage to the transmission system of your Toyota.
- Turn Off the Engine: After that, you need to stop the car – this means switching off the engine. This enables the transmission to cool down. Let your vehicle cool down for at least half an hour before you try anything.
- Check Level of Transmission Fluid: The transmission fluid level should be checked after the transmission has cooled down. Consult your owner’s manual to know the right way of doing this as it may vary from one model to the other. If the fluid level is low, then the overheating could be attributable to this factor.
- Look for Leaks: During the process of checking the fluid level, look underneath the car for signs of leakage of transmission fluid. Leakages can lead to low fluid levels and therefore make the transmission overheat.
When You May Need To Seek Professional Help
Some of the transmission problems can be solved through general care while others need to be handled by a professional. If your transmission continues to overheat after following the above steps, it is advisable to seek help from a certified mechanic, there could be a serious problem that requires professional attention.
As soon as you observe that transmission fluid is leaking from your Toyota, take it to a mechanic. A leak causes a low level of fluids and overheating. If you still notice symptoms such as slipping gears, slow shifting, or loud noises, after eliminating overheating, it is advisable to take the car to a mechanic for further diagnosis.
One-stop Service Center For SUV and Off-road Vehicle Customization
If you are in search of a reputable company that can assist you in repairs, accessories, and modification of your 4×4 vehicles, then you need to visit us at MW4 Outfitters. Based in Humble, TX we offer a range of performance upgrade services to drivers from all the neighboring cities.
Your transmission may overheat for several reasons if you are often driving on off-road terrains or if you are driving long distances on normal roads. When you drop off your vehicle at our shop, our Toyota specialists will examine and repair the root of the overheating problem. At MW4 Outfitters, we are committed to helping you get the best out of your 4×4 vehicle irrespective of the terrain. Give us a call at 281-570-4901 today.
* Toyota Tundra image credit goes to: jozzeppe.