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What does it mean if my car is leaking transmission fluid from the radiator?

I’ve noticed my radiator is leaking fluid, and it appears to be almost pink—like there’s transmission fluid mixed in. Is this bad? What happens if transmission fluid is leaking from my radiator?

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Kathryn Mae Kurlychek · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Transmission fluid leaking from your radiator is an indicator of something wrong with your transmission cooler, cooling lines, or the radiator itself.
Specifically, a leak in your transmission cooler or faulty seals between cooling lines and engine block or radiator can most commonly cause transmission fluid to wind up in your radiator tank.
Sometimes, however, it’s a problem with the radiator itself—cracks in your radiator tank could allow fluid to seep in, potentially causing damage to your car’s engine. You’ll want to have it checked out by a professional promptly!
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