Posted on 5/30/2025

A red or brown stain under your car usually means one thing—transmission fluid is leaking. While a few drops may not seem like a big deal, ignoring a transmission leak can lead to much more serious problems. Transmission fluid doesn’t just lubricate—it cools the transmission and maintains the pressure needed to shift gears smoothly. Without enough of it, performance suffers, and internal damage can happen fast. If you’ve noticed signs of a transmission fluid leak, here’s a look at the most common causes and what can be done to fix them. 1. Worn Transmission Pan Gasket One of the most frequent sources of a transmission fluid leak is the gasket that seals the transmission pan. Over time, this rubber gasket can dry out, crack, or become damaged from heat and pressure. Leaks from the pan area are often easy to spot—a drip or small puddle right under the center or front of the car. Replacing the gasket usually solves the issue, but it ... read more