2001 Ford Taurus Transaxle Leak

[AClb5]

Hi all,

While driving on the interstate yesterday the check transaxle light came on. I went home and parked the car and it was leaking a very steady drip. It leaked for a long while before, I assume, the fluid ran out. I'm also assuming its transmission fluid but I really don't know much about cars so I can't be sure. This was yesterday and I just drove the car around the block and I didn't seem to have any problems shifting into drive. The leak is coming from under the engine block. Anyone able to help me out?

[shorod]

Welcome to the forum, fellow Cedar Rapidian.

Was the fluid that leaked out translucent pink in color? Did you check the transmission fluid level to see if it was up on fluid? Was the Transaxle light still on this morning? I wouldn't suggest driving it until you at least check the fluid levels.

-Rod

[AClb5]

Coolant is good, Washer fluid is good, oil is good, gas is still fine, brakes still work like normal so its not brake fluid. I was looking at the manual and it said to drive the car around so the engine gets warm and then check the transaxle dipstick. I did so, and the fluid level was still in the middle of the range on the dipstick. The light was no longer on while driving, and when I started the car the light flashed for like a split second.

Last night I put a XXL shirt underneath the leak and it is now completely soaked with the fluid and there is a big stain on the cement as well. As far as the color I'm not really sure.

[rdh2]

The check transaxle light (gear with an exclamation point) can come on when the transaxle overheats. If it does overheat, fluid has been known to come out the vent or dipstick tube.

The fluid should be pinkish/red if its transmission fluid. If the color of fluid on the dipstick is dark/burnt looking, then the fluid needs to be changed ASAP.

I had a similar problem with my '02 where the fluid was leaking out the front seal. It would be helpful if you could get the car on ramps or a hoist to inspect underneath for areas that may show signs of leakage.

How many miles on the car?

-Bob

[AClb5]

150k miles. Bought it at about 140k. Also, I did notice that the car was over heating a bit, I stopped at a gas station on the way home and it was steaming. Also, when I drove it today to check the transaxle fluid level it was steaming. I'm planning on just taking it in tomorrow because I don't know much about cars, unless you guys think it would be an easy fix? I can probably get it on some ramps to take a look.

Another thing, when I checked the fluid level it almost looked as dark as oil. Thats bad I'm assuming.

[rdh2]

Originally Posted by AClb5

150k miles. Bought it at about 140k. Also, I did notice that the car was over heating a bit, I stopped at a gas station on the way home and it was steaming. Also, when I drove it today to check the transaxle fluid level it was steaming. I'm planning on just taking it in tomorrow because I don't know much about cars, unless you guys think it would be an easy fix? I can probably get it on some ramps to take a look.

Another thing, when I checked the fluid level it almost looked as dark as oil. Thats bad I'm assuming.

If the trans fluid is that dark, it has probably been overheated. It will most likely not be an easy fix, as permanent transmission damage may have been done. You can try to flush the trans, but do not allow anyone to use a power flush. With fluid that dirty, a power flush will do more harm than good.

Keep us informed with the findings.

[AClb5]

I took it into my usual mechanic and I guess he doesn't do much with transmissons. He did say that the front seal was leaking horribly so they added 4 quarts and told me to take it into a tranny shop to have them look at it. He said the computer came up with 2 codes indicating that transmission work needs to be done as well. =/. Will post more tomorrow.

[rdh2]

Originally Posted by AClb5

I took it into my usual mechanic and I guess he doesn't do much with transmissons. He did say that the front seal was leaking horribly so they added 4 quarts and told me to take it into a tranny shop to have them look at it. He said the computer came up with 2 codes indicating that transmission work needs to be done as well. =/. Will post more tomorrow.

Considering that the trans has to come out to replace the front seal and that you have that many miles, its time to rebuild it. Plan on spending $1800-$3000 depending on where you go. Try to find a reputable local shop and stay away from AAMCO.

[AClb5]

Cost me $1700 to get it rebuilt =/