Can Coolant Mix With the Transmission Fluid?
Yes, coolant can mix with the transmission fluid if there is a breach between the two systems. The transmission and cooling system intersect in your engine to keep the transmission cool. It only takes one crack to mix the fluids. Unfortunately, this mixture can be extremely damaging to your transmission and the engine. To make matters worse, you may not realize that the fluids have mixed unless your engine starts to overheat. When the fluids mix, the transmission fluid turns pink, but it can be hard to check the fluid color because the dipstick is located underneath your automobile.
Red
You never want your transmission fluid to be pink because this means it has coolant in it. Rather, you always want the transmission fluid to be red. In addition to this color, the transmission fluid should also be translucent. The fluid in the transmission serves two purposes. One, it protects the transmission and helps keep it cool. Two, it is also a hydraulic fluid. As long as the transmission fluid is translucent and red, it is in excellent shape to do its job.
Orange
The transmission fluid will change colors as it gets older. The reason why is that it gets dirty and also gets burned. The transmission fluid will first change from red to orange or light brown. When this happens, you don’t need to change the transmission fluid quite yet. It is still doing a good job of protecting the transmission. It is also still acting as a hydraulic fluid.
Brown
There will come a point when the transmission fluid turns brown, however, and this is when it needs to be changed. Usually, this point is every 30,000 miles, which is why transmission services are recommended every 30,000 miles. You do not want to leave brown fluid in the transmission because it can damage it. The reason why is that the fluid is dirty and oxidized.
Black
If you do leave the fluid in the transmission, it will turn black. Unfortunately, at this point, your transmission may start to act up. It may make grinding noises or clunking noises. It may shake your vehicle because the gear shifts are rough. It will definitely overheat. All of these things signal a damaged transmission that needs to be repaired.
Avoid this by bringing your automobile to our shop every 30,000 miles to have the transmission fluid changed. If you are overdue for the service, call us today.