What Happens With Too Much Transmission Oil? [Tips]

What happens when you have too much transmission fluid and add too much oil? Let's explore the problems that can arise from this common automotive issue.

In a vehicle's transmission system, the transmission fluid or oil serves a crucial role in lubricating and cooling various components. However, an excessive amount of transmission oil can lead to several problems.

One issue that can occur is cavitation. Cavitation happens when there is an excessive amount of oil in the transmission, causing the fluid to froth or foam. This frothy oil fails to provide proper lubrication, leading to increased wear and tear on the transmission components.

As the frothy oil passes through the system, it creates tiny air pockets that collapse with force, generating shock waves. These shock waves further damage the internal components of the transmission, such as gears, bearings, and seals.

When the transmission is overfilled, the excess oil can cause abnormally high pressure within the system. High oil pressure puts strain on the seals, gaskets, and other vulnerable parts, potentially leading to leaks or even catastrophic failure

Incorrect gear changes are also a common symptom of excessive transmission oil.

Too much oil can interfere with the operation of the transmission's hydraulic system, which controls gear shifting. As a result, you may experience rough or delayed gear changes, causing jerking motions and potentially damaging the gears themselves.

Another problem associated with too much transmission oil is abnormal oil pressure.

One more problem that arises from too much transmission oil is a loss of power.

The excessive oil can create resistance within the system, making it harder for power to transfer efficiently from the engine to the wheels. This results in reduced acceleration, sluggish performance, and a decrease in overall power output.

Are you experiencing issues with your vehicle's transmission? In this informative video, we delve into the problems that arise from having too much transmission oil. Learn about the detrimental effects of excessive oil on your transmission system, including cavitation, abnormal oil pressures, faulty gear changes, and a noticeable loss of power.

To avoid these issues, it's important to maintain the proper transmission oil level according to the manufacturer's recommendations. If you suspect overfilling, it's best to consult a qualified technician who can perform the necessary checks and adjustments.

Our video will help you understand the potential risks and consequences of overfilling your transmission. Don't let these problems go unnoticed—watch now and discover how to maintain the proper transmission oil level for optimal performance and longevity.

Transmission oil problems
Excessive transmission oil
Too much transmission fluid does what damage?
Effects of overfilled transmission oil
Cavitation in transmission
Abnormal oil pressures
Faulty gear changes
Loss of power in transmission
Maintaining proper transmission oil level
Transmission maintenance tips

Legal Notice: Unless we have inspected your car we can only provide generic theory. All information is provided without warranty, please check any recommendations made with a mechanic locally to verify it would be legal in your area or region and that it would be suitable for your car and your needs.

[chrispolk]

We purchased a 2013 mini cooper base a few years ago from a "reputable" mini dealer in colorado. The car had serious lag accelerating from a stop. We had them look at it multiple times and they kept indicating that it was normal for that car. Very normal. I recently checked the "lifetime" transmission fluid because the car is about to hit 150, 000 miles. It was overfilled by close to two quarts. Lag out of first is now significantly reduced. Looking back, I think the transmission was drowning in oil and couldn't really gain power until the rpms were high enough to push through it. Crossing my fingers that there is no long term damage.

[louisdefilippi]

Thanks for the straightforward description of potential issues!

[mamiehutt-temoana]

Best mechanical explanation I've ever heard -Thanks 😀

[NickHopper-qu]

Had my gearbox serviced mercedes w204 and the guy who did it ex merc mechanic years ago had overfilled it by quite alot... When the car got upto running temp the oil came out the breather tube and caused a mess underneath the car, Ive drained it now to the correct level and it seems OK just wondered if you think any damage could of been caused? 🤔

[vermontvermont]

I recently did a x3 drain and fill on my 2019 civic coupe ex-t cvt. I switched to valvoline cvt. I measured what came out, and put back in what came out. Car drives fine. Only thing, and this confuses the F out of me, I'm getting a very fresh cvt fluid smell in the cabin. But ONLY when going from P to R then D. I won't smell it if I'm just sitting there, or driving around. It's only when like I mentioned. Is it possible the expansion of the fluid is different from the other fluid? I checked the transmission vent breather. Not clogged. I cleaned up any spillage with brake clean. Made sure of it. So it's very confusing. I know lots of people are using valvoline cvt fluid with no issues so I don't get it.

[avery]

Sir .
They charged alot to change transmission fluid . And now it's malfunctioning. I checked the fluid level after same mechanic tried to sell a new transmission. The fluid level was above full marks .
Are all mechanics crooks?😊

[NotJbus]

Just got a 00 venture. The thing shifts hard at around 45 to 55. Like a notable thud. Check trannt fluid an I think it's way over filed. Hoping this fixes it. Also had it thud 2 times in a row. Lose alittle power. Did it again 2 more times an stopped for a few hours. Hoping injector cleaner fixes that. If u think anything else lmk

[claytonjackson]

Legend thanks for the Brilliant info, I got a Subaru liberty and it over revs, hopefully I didn't chuck to much trans oil in

[freeasabird]

Would the engineer or wrench light come on because of this?

[ankushsharma]

Sir, how much quantity of oil is called extra from manufacturer recommendation

Thanks

[Budhsingh-juou]

Hi sir i need ur advice plz, i change my civic 2018 hcf2 and overfill 250 ml then i drove 50 km I realize burn small then i drain 250 ml through side level bolt after that no any small or noise, my question is my transmission still good or damage plz assist me thx

[LucaBrasi]

I overfilled my transmission fluid by one quart exactly, is that called for immediate concern. I'm sure it's only one quart

[danielsee]

Often!!! The T in often is silent!! Why do people need to imitate gays? I don't mean to say that you are imitating.