Can Changing the Oil Fix a Water-Damaged Transmission?
1 Answers
Simply changing the oil cannot solve the problem after water enters the transmission. Generally, water settles at the bottom of the gear oil in the transmission, so it is necessary to open the bottom of the transmission to remove both the water and oil, then refill with new transmission fluid. It is also advisable to replace components such as gaskets, oil seals, and friction plates to extend the service life. If the water damage is severe and affects functionality, professional repair at a service center is required. Typically, transmission water ingress is caused by the following two scenarios: 1. Water submerging more than two-thirds of the wheels: In this case, the probability of water entering the transmission is around 80% to 90%. If the water level reaches the dashboard, the transmission is 100% flooded. 2. Water splashing into the transmission during oncoming traffic: If there is excessive standing water on the road, splashes hitting the vehicle body may also cause water to enter the transmission. When water contaminates the transmission, the performance of the transmission fluid is severely compromised—not only is its lubricating ability reduced, but its power-transfer efficiency also declines. This can lead to clutch slippage, followed by a rise in oil temperature, which may generate steam or even cause the oil-water mixture to boil. These viscous residues can accumulate in the valve body, clogging it and affecting the transmission's control system.
