What is what to do when trans temp light comes on?

Here's what to do when your transmission temperature warning light comes on:

Immediate Actions:

Stop Driving (Safely): The absolute first thing to do is to pull over to a safe location as soon as possible. Continuing to drive with an overheating transmission can cause significant and permanent damage. Find a safe spot to stop, away from traffic.
Turn Off the Engine: Once you've stopped, turn off the engine. This will stop the transmission from generating more heat.
Let It Cool Down: Allow the transmission to cool down. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, or even longer depending on the ambient temperature. Do not attempt to check the transmission fluid level immediately after the light comes on, as you could be burned by hot fluid.

Investigating the Problem:

Check Transmission Fluid Level (After Cooling): Once the transmission has cooled sufficiently, check the transmission fluid level. Refer to your owner's manual for the correct procedure and location of the dipstick. A low fluid level is a common cause of overheating.
Add Fluid (If Low): If the fluid is low, add the correct type of transmission fluid as specified in your owner's manual. Do not overfill.
Check for Leaks: Look for any signs of transmission fluid leaks around the transmission, cooler lines, and under the vehicle. Leaks can lead to low fluid levels and overheating.
Inspect the Transmission Cooler: The <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Transmission%20Cooler">Transmission Cooler</a> helps regulate the temperature of the transmission fluid. Check for any obstructions (like debris) or damage to the cooler. Make sure the fan (if equipped) is functioning correctly.
Consider Recent Driving Conditions: Heavy towing, driving in stop-and-go traffic, or driving in very hot weather can all contribute to transmission overheating.

When to Seek Professional Help:

Light Comes Back On: If the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Transmission%20Temp%20Light">Transmission Temp Light</a> illuminates again after adding fluid or clearing obstructions, there is likely a more serious problem.
Fluid Looks or Smells Burnt: If the transmission fluid looks dark, smells burnt, or contains metal shavings, it indicates significant internal damage.
Persistent Leaks: If you find a significant transmission fluid leak, have it repaired by a qualified mechanic.
Unusual Noises or Shifting Problems: Any unusual noises (whining, clunking) or shifting problems (slipping, hard shifts) along with the overheating indicate a potential transmission issue.

Important Considerations:

Correct Fluid Type: Using the wrong type of transmission fluid can damage your transmission. Always use the fluid specified in your owner's manual.
Towing: Reduce your towing weight or trailer size if you were towing when the light came on.
Preventive Maintenance: Regular transmission fluid changes, as recommended in your owner's manual, can help prevent overheating and extend the life of your transmission. The service interval can be found in your <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Owner's%20Manual">Owner's Manual</a>.
Scan for Codes: A mechanic can use a scan tool to check for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that can provide valuable information about the cause of the overheating. <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Diagnostic%20Trouble%20Codes">Diagnostic Trouble Codes</a> can point directly to the source of the problem.