Whenever your vehicle's transmission begins acting erratically it can be tempting to go into panic mode. With the average cost of a transmission replacement running between $4,000 and $8,000, it can be heartbreaking to think that your transmission has gone out. Fortunately, there might be a simpler explanation as to why your transmission is acting up.

Here are three reasons why you might want to check the transmission pan for problems when your transmission misbehaves in the future.

1. Large objects can damage the transmission pan.

The transmission pan plays an important role in helping to maintain proper pressure within your vehicle's transmission system. Since the transmission pan in located underneath your car's chassis, large objects can damage the pan during daily driving.

If a large object strikes your transmission pan hard enough to perforate the surface of the pan, you could develop a transmission fluid leak. Leaking transmission pans can't maintain proper pressure, you will notice your transmission acting sluggish when shifting gears. Rather than assuming you need a new transmission, check for perforations in the transmission pan first.

2. Faulty transmission pan gaskets can cause fluid leaks.

When your car's transmission system doesn't have access to enough transmission fluid, you may notice that your car begins to surge or exhibit higher operating temperatures. Since the transmission pan serves as a reservoir for holding excess transmission fluid, anything that compromises the integrity of the pan could result in serious problems.

One common cause of transmission fluid leaks is a faulty pan gasket. Replacing the gasket with a new one could prevent leakage, and restore your car's transmission to a functioning state once again.

3. A dented transmission pan could cause your transmission to overheat.

The transmission pan is responsible for holding about half of the transmission fluid running through your car's transmission system at any given time. As fluid circulates through the transmission system it becomes hot. Heated fluid is cooled in the transmission pan, preventing overheating.

If your pan becomes dented, it will have a reduced capacity to hold transmission fluid for cooling. Replacing a dented pan could be a simple way to reverse any overheating you notice in your car's transmission system in the future.

Understanding the role a transmission pan plays in the proper function of your car's transmission system is important. Identifying some problems that stem from a faulty transmission pan will help you avoid making unnecessary repairs in the future. Go to websites like http://www.atomictransmission.com for more information.

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