[Djnrg]

Hi guys. I have been noticing a tranny smell from my 3.5 lately. It's not really bad, but it's there, and I wanted to know what you guys thought before I took it in. It happens even when I don't push the car hard at all.....does it more on hot days. I think I have a little too much tranny fluid in her (i added a tranny conditioner bottle), so could that be it? Or is it time to change the tranny oil and filter again??? (did it last august)
Thanks.

 

[Mopar4U]

What year is your car? Do you smell it when your car has been running a while and when your at a stop? I think I may have finally found someone with the same problem as me. Try this, look under the car, specifically at the back of your tranny. Is it wet? If it is, dab some of that on your finger. Does it smell like what you smell when your driving? I don't think tranny fluid smells really bad. I think what you are smelling differential fluid which is very strong. If this is what you are smelling i'll give you more info, possibly cheap fixes.

 

[Djnrg]

My trep is a 97. I think it is the tranny, but you could be right by saying it is the differential. I think I am gonna drain the tranny oil, and replace the filter as well, and then see if it still happens. Only problem is finding the time.....
How "bad" would it be if it turned out to be the differential fluid?
And what would need to be done?

 

[Mopar4U]

You will know if it is the differential leaking by the obnoxius smell. THIS STUFF REAKS. If it is the differential leaking chances are the inner seals are shot. You can try buying a tranny vent from the dealership for about $30 which replaces the differential plug. The vent releases some of the pressure from the inside of the differential. This sometimes solves the problem, if not the inner seals are shot. Then your only options are a tranny rebuild or just keep adding differential fluid and put up with the smell. Unfortunately the differential is not a seperate piece, it is part of the tranny.

 

[Djnrg]

Thanks for your help man! I don't think it is the differential, because the smell is not that bad. It just smells like something is being worked hard, even when it isn't. Like I said, I will try changing the tranny fluid and see what happens. I think I have too much in there now anyways, but I find when I put in a bit too much, the tranny grips better (but shifts harder).....either that or I am nuts......
Anyone know if the 97 Intrepid Sport's w/ the autostick comes with a tranny cooler? And would it be worth upgrading to a better one?
Thanks.