Auto Transmission Leak

[zappaboy]

Put my Series 1 V6 Calais V Wagon in for repairs at the "holden" stealership after a rat attack where the wiper washer reservoir system was replaced. In doing this I noticed that they reported that they had to remove the front bumper to do this. I also reported that there was a burning smell in the car standing still and I asked them to investigate. They reported the following and I quote "Transmission fluid is leaking from bell housing area, require transmission removal for inspection. This may be causing burning smell"
My questions are:
1. Is there a possibility that the rat attack could have caused the leak ie is there any pipes that would be vulnerable.
2. My understanding is that there is not a dipstick for the autos. Is this correct. I am concerned about driving the car just in case the fluid level is low and damages the transmission. Is there a way for me to check the level.
3. If there are any major issues with the transmission, I would take the car to a auto transmission specialist. Is it correct, to check these leaks would require the removal of the transmission. I was told that it was take a week and obviously it was a big job.
The transmission was last serviced by the same stealership at the 150k service and the car has now done 204k and the car and transmission are driving well with no apparent issues. Kickdown of the transmission is smooth and I drive the car manually down steep hills using the gears and use the transmission to slow the car down at most times. Note 95% of this cars driving is highway ie 110 - 120km/h. An advice greatly appreciated.

 

[mpower]

sounds like a rear main, it happens.

yes it's a big job.

 

[Skylarking]

sounds like a rear main, it happens.

yes it's a big job.

Rear main? presumably that would leak engine oil yet dealer found "Transmission fluid is leaking from bell housing area, require transmission removal for inspection. This may be causing burning smell"

But I’m flabbergasted that the dealer didn’t check the trans fluid level (or engine oil level for that matter) to confirm any lost fluid, top up or warn owner as appropriate? Such beggars belief

 

[bb_zetec]

Maybe best to get a second opinion at a reputable transmission shop.

 

[BlackVXGTS]

Would be worthwhile running your car up on ramps and having a look yourself to see if you can see the leak. For there to be a burning smell I would have thought that oil would be leaking or spraying onto the exhaust. Use a torch and a mirror (with flexible handle if you have one). Also check the rocker cover gaskets in case they were incorrect in identifying that the leak was trans oil.

 

[zappaboy]

I should have added that this car has a history of using oil and it does not leak onto the floor. I now have to put about 1-2 litres every 10-15k. I have just assumed that it was burning it via the exhaust.

 

[mpower]

Rear main? presumably that would leak engine oil yet dealer found "Transmission fluid is leaking from bell housing area, require transmission removal for inspection. This may be causing burning smell"

But I’m flabbergasted that the dealer didn’t check the trans fluid level (or engine oil level for that matter) to confirm any lost fluid, top up or warn owner as appropriate? Such beggars belief

yeah, i didn't read the OP properly - ignore my earlier post OP - but as some others have said, it's second opinion time.

 

[zappaboy]

I have received a second opinion on the auto leak and have been advised that the leak is from the front torque converter seal. I have been advised that the rear main seal should be replaced while the transmission has been removed. I have a few questions please.

1. Is it wise to replace both front and rear seals while the transmission is out. It seems logical to me but would like clarification from forum experts.
2. Assuming both seals are to be replaced with the transmission removed, what would a reasonable cost for the job be. Note the car is a 3.6 V6.
3. The car has done 204000 kms with most of the kms highway driving so the car has had an easy life. Is this unusual for this seal to fail.
thanks for any responces.

 

[Skylarking]

Guess it comes down to when/if rear seals are prone to leak. If they are not known to leak for the life of the transmission, then don’t bother… but if they are then it would be prudent to replace…

So it also depends on how much extra it costs to change the real seal with the transmission out of the vehicle (seal + 1/2 hour labour) as compared to how much it cost to drop and reinstall the auto transmission when you later develope a rear seal leak? It’s a risk reward sort of thing

Are they also taking the opportunity (quoting) to also flush the TQ with clean oil, change the trans filter, clean the pan and flush the trans cooler before everything is put back together?

 

[zappaboy]

Put the car for the auto transmission repair and the torque converter had a hair line crack which I saw with my own eyes. I was told that they have seen this before with VF. As I also have a VE Series 2 ute so I asked if they have seen this with VE models and was told no.