2013 Kia Optima SX leaking transmission fluid and losing power... any advice?

Kia Models Forum Optima
1

Hey everyone, my 2013 Kia Optima SX suddenly started smoking and leaking transmission fluid while I was driving. It also started losing power, and when I checked under the hood, there was transmission fluid everywhere. Not sure where the leak is coming from. Any ideas on what to do next?

2

First thing, you need to locate where that leak is coming from. Could be a cracked hose, seal, or even the transmission pan.

3

Yoon said:
First thing, you need to locate where that leak is coming from. Could be a cracked hose, seal, or even the transmission pan.

Yeah, I wasn’t sure what to look for. Should I be worried about driving it to the shop?

4

@Jason
I wouldn’t drive it if you can avoid it. Low transmission fluid can cause more damage. Maybe have it towed or get a mobile mechanic to take a look.

5

If there’s fluid everywhere, you might have blown a seal or a line. Definitely not safe to keep driving it.

6

MythicalMerlin said:
If there’s fluid everywhere, you might have blown a seal or a line. Definitely not safe to keep driving it.

Got it. I’ll get it checked out. Any idea how much this kind of thing usually costs?

7

@Jason
Depends on where the leak is. If it’s just a hose or seal, not too bad. But if there’s internal damage, it could be pricier.

8

Check your transmission cooler lines. Had a similar issue once, and it turned out a line had burst. Simple fix but a mess to clean up.

9

Dany said:
Check your transmission cooler lines. Had a similar issue once, and it turned out a line had burst. Simple fix but a mess to clean up.

Thanks for the tip. I’ll mention it to the mechanic when they check it out.

10

Not sure where you’re located, but some auto shops can scan for transmission codes and might help pinpoint the issue faster.

11

Cindy said:
Not sure where you’re located, but some auto shops can scan for transmission codes and might help pinpoint the issue faster.

That’s a good idea. I’ll see if I can get it scanned locally before making any decisions.

12

Definitely not a good sign if it’s smoking and leaking. You might be looking at a major repair. Better to get it checked ASAP.

13

Princeton said:
Definitely not a good sign if it’s smoking and leaking. You might be looking at a major repair. Better to get it checked ASAP.

Yeah, I’m going to see what I can do. Thanks for the advice, everyone.