What does the transmission temperature display mean?
4 Answers
Transmission temperature display refers to the transmission temperature warning indicator light. Here is an introduction about the transmission: Introduction: The transmission is a mechanism used to change the speed and torque from the engine. It can fix or change the transmission ratio between the output shaft and the input shaft in steps, also known as the gearbox. Function: Interrupt power transmission, when the engine starts, idles, the car shifts gears, or needs to stop for power output, it interrupts the power transmission to the drive wheels. Achieve neutral gear, when the clutch is engaged, the transmission can output no power. For example, it ensures that the driver can release the clutch pedal and leave the driver's seat without the engine stalling.
Last year during a long-distance drive, I encountered a transmission temperature warning. Suddenly, a thermometer icon flashed red on the dashboard, which really startled me. Later, the mechanic told me this was actually an overheating alert signal from the transmission, similar to how smartphones warn about overheating. The car transmission generates significant heat during operation, especially when climbing steep slopes or during aggressive driving. The high-temperature warning means you should stop immediately to let it cool down, otherwise the gear oil inside might deteriorate, and in severe cases, the transmission could fail completely. Now when driving on mountain roads, I deliberately monitor this temperature display and take breaks whenever it exceeds 100°C. Transmission repairs aren't cheap—a friend recently mentioned that replacing a new one costs tens of thousands. It's important to develop the habit of checking the temperature before parking and turning off the engine.
The transmission temperature number popping up on the dashboard tells you how hot the transmission is currently. As someone who delivers goods intercity every day, I know best how important this is. Transmission fluid thins out at high temperatures, reducing lubrication effectiveness and transmission efficiency. It's most prone to overheating in city traffic jams or during continuous uphill climbs - that's when you should immediately switch to manual mode and downshift to let the engine share some of the load. Also, don't constantly brake during long descents - engine braking is easier on the transmission. Once during hot weather highway driving I didn't pay attention and the transmission completely locked up, costing me over 800 for the tow truck. My advice: when the temperature approaches the red zone, pull over immediately, pop the hood to let it cool before continuing.
As a veteran driver with twenty years of manual transmission experience, I find this temperature display absolutely crucial. It monitors the operating temperature of the transmission fluid, which normally stays around 90 degrees Celsius. A sudden temperature spike indicates potential cooling system issues—perhaps the radiator is clogged with willow catkins, or the transmission fluid hasn't been changed for too long and has thickened like paste. From my experience: if temperatures stay normal during summer highway driving but suddenly rise in city traffic jams, there's an 80% chance the cooling fan has failed; if abnormal temperatures occur during cold starts, the sensor might be faulty. Key checks include inspecting transmission fluid color—replace immediately if it's blackened—and regular cleaning of the cooling mesh. A maintenance service at a repair shop costs just 200-300 RMB, far more economical than major overhauls.
