What Causes Car Transmission Overheating?
2 Answers
The reasons for transmission overheating are as follows: 1. Insufficient lubricating oil in the transmission or the use of lubricating oil with an incorrect specification, excessively tight bearing assembly, overly tight gasket and washer assembly, or excessively small meshing clearance of newly replaced gears. 2. To avoid affecting usage, it is recommended to promptly contact a 4S shop for repair and handling. 3. Additional Information: During a stop for inspection while driving, touch various parts of the transmission housing by hand to check the temperature. If the hand can tolerate the temperature, it indicates normal oil temperature; if the hand cannot tolerate it, it indicates an overheating issue. If transmission overheating is confirmed, first check the lubricating oil level. If it is insufficient, replenish it as required; if the oil is too thin or deteriorated, it should be replaced.
There are several common causes of overheating in automotive transmissions. Insufficient or degraded oil is the primary issue, as low or contaminated transmission fluid increases friction, leading to heat buildup. Cooling system failures, such as a clogged radiator or malfunctioning fan, also prevent heat dissipation. Driving habits play a significant role—prolonged heavy towing, speeding uphill, or rapid acceleration can overload the transmission and cause overheating. Internal component wear, like damaged gears, further exacerbates heat generation. From my experience, overheating often occurs after long summer trips. Symptoms include reduced power and a spike in fuel consumption when temperatures rise excessively. I recommend checking fluid levels and color every 5,000 km to prevent severe damage from overheating. Regular maintenance can significantly extend transmission lifespan.