QuestionQUESTION: I have a 2004 Chrysler Sebring which has recently started leaking trasmission fluid. I live in North Dakota and we are in the middle of a very cold snap (as low as -24 farenheit, not including wind chill). I was told by a repair shop that this could be the cause. Would you say that is possible?
It isn't leaking a lot and the levels read full, but considering it is my transmission I am concerned. The repair shop said it wasn't a hose and that the leak was above the pan. Any ideas what this could be and if it is potentially serious?
Thanks for the help.
ANSWER: Hi Rob,
I don't have experience with temperatures like that, having lived in California for the past 40 years, but I can imagine that the seals on the torque converter shaft, transmission input shaft, and the output shafts could all be subject to shrinkage in below 0F weather. I would be inclined to just keep an eye on the level, add only ATF +4 (which was the standard through '03, but whatever the owner manual says if different) and don't overfill it. Just leave well enough alone as far as these electronic transaxles go.
Roland
PS Use the 'thank/rate' tab below to get back to me if you have further questions, without having to wait for me to be 'available' to take another question. There is a space for comments to which I will respond. Whele there, if you would consider a 'yes' where you see the question about a 'nomination' that would be appreciated.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thanks a lot for the quick reply. I have a piece of cardboard under the car right now and I noticed four dime to quarter-sized drops on the cardboard. Are there other "warning signs" to watch for something more serious?
AnswerHi Rob,
The loss of fluid per se is not an issue so long as the level doesn't drop to the point where the internal pressure created by the internal pump or the function of the pressure switches is impaired due to low pressure or lack of fluid. I would not worry about this, just check the fluid level in the trans whenever you check the engine oil and add sparingly through the dipstick tube if needed.
The major problems with the trans are with the internal parts, not with leaks from the seals that I described or from the oil pan. I would not touch anything to try and tighten it up. If you want to do something, jack up the car and wipe off the trans so that you might be able to localize the source of the leaks for consideration of remedial measures. But again, as long as you can stay on top of the situation without dumping too much trans fluid in, I would let go of this issue. Don' put any 'sealers' or other aftermarket fluids in the unit as this trans is very sensitive to what is put in there. Thus the emphasis on only ATF +4.
Roland
PS Thanks for the evaluation and nomination.
