Transmission Oil Cooler Line Replacement cost in Ankeny in 2023
The average cost for a transmission oil cooler line replacement is $144 and the range is generally between $70 and $590.
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Average cost of Transmission Oil Cooler Line Replacement for popular vehicle models in Ankeny:
Hyundai Elantra
Avg. cost $72
Dodge Grand Caravan
Avg. cost $297
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Avg. cost $483
THE IMPORTANCE OF Transmission Oil Cooler Line Replacement
What is a transmission oil cooler line and how does it work?
A transmission oil cooler line is a tube that carries automatic transmission fluid (ATF) from the transmission housing to an oil cooler located at the front of the vehicle. Acting as a type of radiator, the transmission cooler helps to regulate the temperature of the ATF and extend the life of your transmission. This is especially helpful when a transmission needs to work extra to tow a trailer or haul a heavy load. Some transmission coolers come as a standalone unit, usually mounted ahead of the A/C condenser. Others are included as a secondary component of the radiator. Either way, the transmission cooler lines move ATF to and from the transmission cooler.
COMMON SYMPTOMS
How do I know if a transmission oil cooler line needs to be replaced?
Transmission oil cooler lines are typically made of aluminum, frequently with sections made of rubber. A transmission oil cooler line may need to be replaced if any of the following happens:
Automatic transmission fluid level drops
Cooler line is leaking
Cracks or severe corrosion form in a line
A line is collapsed or kinked
FREQUENCY OF INSPECTION
How does a technician perform Transmission Oil Cooler Line Replacement ?
In order to replace a transmission cooler line on many makes and models, a mechanic will need to safely lift and support the vehicle off of the ground. Metal skid plates and plastic panels may need to be removed for access. The line is usually routed around a number of other components. Sometimes, it is necessary to set back other parts to get them out of the way. Once the cooler line is accessible, the mechanic will take the following general steps:
Disconnect the line from both the transmission and the oil cooler
Detach any mounts attached to the line
Work the old line out from the path where it is routed
Carefully route the new line so as to prevent kinking or other damage
Connect the ends of the line to the transmission and the cooler
Reattach any mounts and replace any parts that were removed or set back
Top off the transmission fluid and cycle through the transmission
Note - Some transmission oil cooler lines require special tools for removal of the connectors at the ends.
OTHER QUESTIONS CUSTOMERS ASK
Can you drive with a leaking transmission cooler line?
A vehicle with a leaking transmission oil cooler line should be scheduled for service as soon as possible. Whether or not it can be driven at all depends greatly on the severity of the leak. Understand that, if your transmission loses fluid, it can suffer serious damage that can be extremely expensive to repair. If you need to drive at all with an ATF leak, make sure to check the fluid level frequently (something that is not possible with many late model vehicles) and understand that the problem will worsen with time.
What happens when a transmission cooler goes out?
Vehicles that feature a transmission cooler operate best when the component is in working order. Without the cooler, your transmission can overheat. Serious damage can occur when this happens. An overheated transmission can also cause the engine to overheat. If the problem is related to an ATF leak, the fluid level can drop and cause serious transmission damage as well.
What causes a transmission oil cooler line to leak?
Generally, transmission oil cooler lines fail and leak as a result of the line degrading from external factors such as corrosion, collision damage, foreign object damage (such as a piece of road debris striking the line while driving), and abrasion. Some lines have rubber seals at each end that can degrade with age.
RELATED SERVICES
What are some other common services related to Transmission Oil Cooler Line Replacement?
