Transmission Leak Inspection & Repair Cost Guide
Basic Transmission Leak Inspection
Cost: $125 (1 hour)
Includes visual inspection, checking fluid levels, and identifying the general location of the leak. This is the starting point for all transmission leak diagnoses.
Pan Gasket Leak Repair
Cost: $250-$375 (2-3 hours)
Includes removing the transmission pan, replacing the gasket, cleaning mating surfaces, and refilling with new transmission fluid. One of the most common and straightforward repairs.
Front/Rear Seal Replacement
Cost: $375-$500 (3-4 hours)
Requires more extensive labor to access and replace the main transmission seals. May require removing other components for access.
Transmission Line Repair
Cost: $250-$375 (2-3 hours)
Includes diagnosis and replacement of damaged transmission cooler lines. Price may vary depending on line accessibility and whether lines can be repaired or need full replacement.
Axle Seal Replacement
Cost: $250-$375 (2-3 hours)
Involves removing the axle shaft to replace the seal. Labor time can vary by vehicle model and accessibility.
Extension Housing Seal Repair
Cost: $375-$500 (3-4 hours)
Requires partial transmission disassembly to access and replace the seal. More complex due to location and labor involved.
Note: These are estimated costs based on our standard labor rate of $125/hour. Actual costs may vary depending on vehicle make/model, leak severity, and additional parts required. All repairs include a thorough post-repair inspection and road test.
Additional Costs to Consider:
- Transmission fluid: $20-$50 per quart
- Replacement gaskets and seals: $20-$100
- Transmission lines (if needed): $50-$200
- Other required parts specific to your vehicle
Common Transmission Leak Repairs
Pan Gasket Leak
Repair Procedure:
- Drain transmission fluid
- Remove transmission pan
- Clean old gasket material from pan and transmission surface
- Inspect pan for damage or warping
- Install new gasket
- Reinstall pan with proper torque specifications
- Refill with correct transmission fluid
- Test for leaks
Front Seal Leak
Repair Procedure:
- Remove transmission fluid
- Remove torque converter or drive shaft (depending on transmission type)
- Remove old front seal
- Clean sealing surface thoroughly
- Install new seal using proper installation tool
- Reinstall components
- Refill transmission fluid
- Test operation and check for leaks
Rear Seal Leak
Repair Procedure:
- Remove driveshaft or axle shaft
- Remove old rear seal
- Clean sealing surface
- Install new seal using proper installation tool
- Reinstall driveshaft or axle shaft
- Check fluid level
- Test for leaks
Cooler Line Leak
Repair Procedure:
- Identify exact location of leak
- Remove damaged cooler line
- Replace with new line or repair damaged section
- Ensure proper fitting alignment
- Tighten all connections to specification
- Refill transmission fluid
- Pressure test system
- Check for leaks
Extension Housing Leak
Repair Procedure:
- Remove driveshaft
- Remove extension housing
- Clean all sealing surfaces
- Replace gasket and/or seal
- Reinstall extension housing with proper torque
- Reinstall driveshaft
- Check fluid level
- Test for leaks
Important Note:All repairs should be performed by qualified technicians using manufacturer-specified parts and procedures. Proper fluid type and level are crucial for transmission longevity.
Repair times and procedures may vary depending on vehicle make, model, and transmission type. Contact us for specific information about your vehicle.
Understanding Transmission Leak Inspections
Visual Inspection
A visual inspection involves carefully examining the transmission and surrounding areas for signs of fluid leaks, damaged seals, or loose components. The technician will look for red or brown fluid stains, drips, or wet spots underneath your vehicle and around transmission components. This basic but crucial inspection can identify the location and severity of potential leaks.
Pressure Test
A transmission pressure test uses specialized equipment to measure the fluid pressure within your transmission system. The technician connects a pressure gauge to various test ports to verify that your transmission is maintaining proper fluid pressure during operation. This test can identify internal leaks, worn components, or system malfunctions that may not be visible externally.
UV Dye Test
During a UV dye test, a special fluorescent dye is added to your transmission fluid. After driving the vehicle for a short period, the technician uses an ultraviolet light to inspect the transmission. The dye will glow brightly under UV light wherever there's a leak, making it easier to pinpoint exact leak locations, even in hard-to-see areas.
Pan Removal Inspection
This more intensive inspection involves removing the transmission pan to examine internal components and the pan gasket. The technician can check for metal particles in the fluid (which indicate wear), inspect the condition of the filter, and examine the pan gasket for damage. This inspection provides valuable information about both leaks and the overall health of your transmission.
Smoke Test
A smoke test involves introducing harmless smoke into the transmission system under slight pressure. The technician then watches for smoke escaping from the system, which indicates the location of leaks. This method is particularly effective for finding small leaks that might be difficult to detect through other methods.
Road Test Inspection
During a road test inspection, the technician drives the vehicle while monitoring transmission performance and checking for visible leaks under various operating conditions. This dynamic test can reveal leaks that only occur during specific driving conditions or when the transmission fluid is at operating temperature.
Common Transmission Leak Symptoms: Warning Signs to Watch For
Transmission Leak Inspection Guide
Visual Inspection
Signs of Failure:
- Red or brown fluid spots under your parked vehicle
- Low transmission fluid levels
- Visible fluid on transmission housing
- Burning smell while driving
Service Schedule: Visual inspections should be performed monthly and during every oil change (typically every 3,000-7,500 miles).
Pan Gasket Inspection
Signs of Failure:
- Fluid seepage around transmission pan edges
- Damaged or deteriorated gasket material
- Loose pan bolts
- Warped transmission pan
Service Schedule: Inspect during transmission fluid changes (typically every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as recommended by manufacturer).
Seal Inspection
Signs of Failure:
- Fluid leaks around input/output shafts
- Visible cracks in seal material
- Transmission slipping
- Delayed engagement when shifting
Service Schedule: Seals should be inspected during transmission service intervals (typically every 30,000-60,000 miles).
Cooler Line Inspection
Signs of Failure:
- Fluid leaks at connection points
- Corroded or damaged lines
- Wet or damp areas around cooler connections
- Low transmission fluid levels
Service Schedule: Inspect cooler lines during routine maintenance checks (every 15,000-30,000 miles).
Note: Service intervals may vary based on vehicle make, model, and driving conditions. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific maintenance schedules.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
