Always check the fluid level with the engine running (except Honda), the transmission in “park” (except Chrysler products and some Mitsubishi transaxles which should be in “neutral” with the emergency brake applied), and with the engine at operating temperature. Remove the dipstick and wipe with a rag. Insert the stick fully and remove. Look at both sides of the stick to verify the same indication. Repeat the process.

(TIP) If you have added fluid, go through the same procedure, but repeat the process several times before you look for a reading. Some of the added fluid will adhere to the side of the filler tube and can give a false reading.

(TIP) If the fluid level is low, you have leak! Transmissions do not consume fluid. Have the leak diagnosed and repaired to prevent more serious problems. After you have added fluid, drive the vehicle for a mile or two, then recheck the level. This is especially important in front wheel drive vehicles.

There are numerous places a transmission can leak. A few of the more common leak areas that we see are: the pump, shift lever seal(s), kick down seal, electrical connection(s), governor cover, speedometer, rear output seal or axle seals, servo cover(s), filler tube, throttle cable, pan, side cover, cooler lines and differential cover.

The real questions is: What is/are the source(s) of the leak(s). Most people can only see the bottom of the unit, and therefore conclude that the bottom pan gasket is leaking when, in reality, the leak is from above and running down and around the pan. Therefore, it is imperative that the unit is visually inspected to evaluate the leak situation!

So, the answer to the question is: No, I can’t without seeing the vehicle.

It depends on the rate of fluid loss. A minor or slow leak will allow you to drive as long as you maintain the level in the normal range. You will have to establish the rate of loss and replenish as necessary. It should be obvious that if fluid is running out as a stream, you won’t get very far! A transmission will operate “normally” until the fluid loss is a quart or more. Then the unit will exhibit abnormal operating systems and internal damage is occurring. What started as only a leak can result in a major repair bill if ignored!

Also watch out for fluid leaking on hot exhaust or the catalytic converter. That situation can easily result in a fire and a total loss of your vehicle. Worse yet, someone could get hurt or killed in this situation. So, for safety’s sake don’t start or drive your vehicle if it has a fluid leak that may start a fire. Get it towed in for repairs. A tow bill is cheap compared to your life or your health.