If your car is shuddering, jerking, or making a loud whining noise when you press on the gas, it’s likely that you have a bad transmission pump. This can be a costly repair, so knowing the symptoms and causes of a bad transmission pump is important.
This article will discuss how the transmission oil pumps work and what can go wrong with them. We will also provide tips on preventing transmission pump failure and replacement costs.
What is a Transmission Pump? How Does it Work?
A transmission pump is a vital component of an automatic transmission. It is responsible for circulating transmission fluid throughout the transmission system and maintaining proper pressure. Without the correct fluid pressure, the transmission will not function properly and may eventually fail.
The pump is usually located at the front of the transmission, attached to the bell housing and the transmission oil pan. It consists of an electric motor and pumps assembly driven by the engine. The pump circulates fluid under pressure through the transmission, while the motor also powers various other components in the transmission, such as the torque converter and band brake.
What Causes Transmission Pump To Fail?
Several things can cause a transmission pump to fail. One of the most common causes is overheating, which can be caused by defective cooling fins on the pump.
Or, if the transmission fluid level drops too low, it can cause the pump to overheat and fail. Therefore, it is important to check the fluid level regularly and add more fluid as needed. Low fluid levels can also damage other components in the transmission.
One of the most common reasons a transmission pump fails is due to a lack of lubrication. A pump can fail if there’s too much friction inside the transmission. Worn-out gears or seals can cause this. If these items aren’t replaced when they need to be, it can put a lot of stress on the pump and cause it to fail.
Another common cause of failure is seized bearings, caused by water contamination or excessive heat. Worn seals can also cause the pump to leak, leading to pump failure. Finally, a defective electric motor can also cause the pump to fail.
Lastly, a pump can fail if it’s not used often enough. If the car sits for long periods, the oil in the pump will start to degrade, and the pump will eventually fail.
Bad Transmission Oil Pump Symptoms
Several symptoms can indicate a bad transmission pump. Some of these are listed below:
- Illuminating Check Engine Light
- Transmission Noise
- Gears Slipping
- Transmission Fluid Leaks
- Total Gear Breakdown
Let us take a closer look at these symptoms of a bad transmission pump:
1. Illuminating Check Engine Light:
One of the first signs that something is wrong with your transmission pump is if the check engine light comes on. A variety of issues can cause this, so it’s important to have the car checked out by a professional as soon as possible.
If you notice the check engine light come on, it’s best to take the car to a mechanic to have it checked out. There could be several problems causing the light to come on, but one of the most common is a bad transmission pump.
If you continue to drive your car with the check engine light on, it could cause more damage to the transmission and lead to even more expensive repairs. It’s always best to address any problems as soon as you notice them.
2. Transmission Noise
If you start hearing strange noises coming from your car, it could be a sign that something is wrong with the transmission pump. One of the most common noises is a whining sound, which can be caused by many issues, including a bad transmission pump.
If you hear any strange noises coming from your car, it’s best to take it to a mechanic so they can diagnose the problem. The noise may be caused by something else, but it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible if it is the transmission pump.
3. Gears Slipping
If the transmission pump is going bad, it can’t properly pressurize the transmission fluid. This leads to gears slipping and a lack of power when accelerating.
If your car’s transmission is slipping, it’s likely because there’s not enough pressure in the system. A failing transmission pump can cause this. Without enough pressure, the gears can’t move smoothly, and you’ll lose power when you try to accelerate.
If you’re experiencing this issue, it’s important to take your car in for repair as soon as possible. A bad transmission pump can lead to serious damage in the transmission.
4. Transmission Fluid Leaks
If you are facing transmission fluid leaks, it’s another sign that there could be a problem with the transmission pump. If the transmission pump is not functioning properly, it can cause the fluid to leak. In addition, a bad transmission pump can also lead to poor performance of the transmission and eventually cause it to fail.
There are a few things that you can do to try and fix a transmission fluid leak in automatic and manual transmission. First, you can check the fluid level and add more if it is low. You can also try tightening the transmission pan to see if that stops the leak. If neither of these solutions works, you may need to replace the transmission pump.
5. Total Gear Breakdown
A bad transmission pump can lead to total gear breakdown. If the gears in your transmission are not properly lubricated, they can grind against each other and break. This can cause your car to lose power and eventually stall. If you notice any strange noises coming from your transmission, have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
If you are experiencing any problems with your transmission, have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. A bad transmission pump can lead to total gear breakdown, so it is important to get it checked out before it causes any further damage.
How To Prevent Transmission Pump Failure in Car?
One of the most common problems with transmissions is the failure of the transmission pump. There are a few things that you can do to prevent this from happening, though.
One of the most important things that you can do to prevent transmission pump failure is to keep the fluid in the transmission system clean and topped off. If you have contaminated transmission fluid, it can cause problems with the pump. You should check the fluid level regularly and top it off if necessary. You should also have the fluid flushed and replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Another thing that you can do to prevent transmission pump failure is to avoid putting too much stress on the system. This means not towing heavier loads than what the car is rated for and not using the transmission to its full potential all the time. If you do put stress on the system, it is vital to have the transmission regularly serviced so that any problems can be caught early and repaired before they cause serious damage.
If you take care of your transmission, add a transmission cooler and keep the transmission filter clear at all times, you can help to prevent transmission pump failure. If you experience problems with the pump, it is crucial to take care of them as soon as possible so that the damage does not spread and cause further issues with the car.
Transmission Pump Replacement Cost
The average cost of replacing a transmission pump is $400 and $1,200. This includes the cost of the part itself and labor costs associated with installing it.
Transmission pumps are typically replaced when they fail, which can be caused by various factors, including wear and tear or debris getting into the system. In some cases, the pump may need to be replaced if it is not compatible with a new transmission.
Conclusion
A transmission pump is a vital component of an automatic transmission, and it can fail due to various factors. If you suspect that your transmission pump is failing, it’s essential to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible.
Replacing a transmission pump can be costly, but it’s typically less expensive than replacing the entire transmission. Taking proper care of your transmission and checking the fluid levels regularly can help to prevent pump failure.
Do you have any questions about bad transmission pump symptoms? Let us know. If you found this article helpful, please share it with your friends or family, who might also find it useful! Thanks for reading!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you drive with a bad transmission pump?
No, you cannot drive with a bad transmission pump. The transmission pump is responsible for circulating transmission fluid throughout the transmission.
If the pump is not working properly, the fluid will not circulate, and the transmission will not work correctly. You will need to have the pump replaced to drive your vehicle.
How long should a transmission pump last?
A transmission pump should last for the entire lifespan of your car, or about 100,000 miles. However, if you experience any issues with your transmission, it is best to take it to a mechanic as soon as possible to have it checked out.
A transmission pump can often be fixed without having to replace the entire pump. Premature failure of a transmission pump may be caused by driving habits, vehicle age, or even the type of fluid used in the transmission. Always consult your mechanic if you are experiencing any problems with your transmission.
Can automatic transmission work without a transmission pump?
The answer is no. The automatic transmission front pump is responsible for supplying hydraulic fluid to the transmission, which is necessary for the automatic transmission operation, unlike manual transmission. Without the pump, the transmission will not function properly and will eventually fail.
