Why Automatic Transmissions Fail

Here's a look inside a failed automatic transmission and what caused it to fail.

This Infiniti G35 AWD transmission was slipping in 4th and 5th gear. In this video, the engine and transmission is removed and the transmission completely disassembled to examine the clutches, band and drum, one way clutch, valve body, solenoid and computer, filter, pan and torque converter.

For a full explanation on how this automatic transmission works, please see this video:

Skip to section in the video:
0:00 Teardown
3:35 Analysis
4:24 Clutches
8:38 Band and Drum
8:54 One way Clutch
9:22 Valve Body, Computer and Solenoids
11:45 Filter and Pan
12:43 Torque Converter

Make sure you change your transmission fluid and filter to extend its life. You can purchase supplies for that here:

Transmission Fluid:
Transmission Filter Kit:
Fluid transfer pump:

Fluid Funnel:

Socket set:

Reference videos:
How a FWD Transmission Works:

How a Torque Converter Works:

How to Change Transmission Fluid and Filter (with dipstick):

How to Change Transmission Fluid (without dipstick):

How a Differential Works:

How a CV Axle Works:

This is the Camera I use:

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[johnraley]

I can see why it cost so much to fix automatic transmissions. And it requires your brothers complete wardrobe to clean up the mess! 😄

[_Latchkey_kid]

I'm 3 minutes into the video and already feeling anxious cause of all the parts! It was funny when you said "now I'm gonna remove all 12, 500 and something bolts". You're very knowledgeable! Congrats!

[shiznoes]

First time I've ever seen a transmission diagram. I love the quality of these videos.

[manny]

This is why I prefer manual transmissions. I’ve fully rebuilt two of my own but I would never dare to open up an automatic. You definitely have a lot of knowledge. Mad props sir.

[granprixgtp]

I like your advanced pointing device 😂

[stockq]

Just wanted to come by and say thank you for the incredibly detailed, short, to-the-point, informative videos. After watching your upper control arm video I immediately subbed, but something like this is next level in terms of complexity. Awesome, amazing work you're putting into these generalized videos, thank you!

[narlycharley]

I love how you started it without the exhaust. Lol

[vinces]

Wow! It’s a small wonder modern automatic transmissions work at all so incredibly complex, great video great information

[douglashealy]

So basically everything in an automatic transmission is a failure point?

[Noctmain]

Mad respect, I'm from Costa Rica, had to fix myself and learn from zero in order to fix my 2016 Mustangs 6r80. It was fun but took a long time.

I lost reverse, 4th and 5th for abusing the Transbrake feature at the drag strip.

I'm happy I studied the manuals and was able to change the clutches and now it drives again like a charm.

Loved seeing this since it reminds me all that experience

[shaswatdas]

He forgot to say, "My brother's toothbrush"😂

[Tony]

I can see why rebuilt transmissions never work very long, they are pretty much unfixable.

[TheSchmed]

After seeing this I’m surprised they work at all.

[morrisl]

Excellent overview, succinct, no rambling like most videos.

Easily one of the most complex pieces of machinery ever created

[fastfiddler]

My shift solenoid is attached to my shoulder.

[paulparoma]

Removing that transmission was a snap! Wonderful Nissan design.

[jayezy]

Transmission's are no joke, I don't think I could ever work on one. Hat's off to the guys that design and repair transmissions.

[roughroadrunner]

So many things to learn about cars, would gladly work as an assistant for free.

[notpurple]

another cool breakdown. love your editing style. not a bunch of waiting and wasted time. rapid fire. excellent job.

[jooky]

Dude your the best automotive channel on YouTube; knowledgeable and you actually show us stuff!