00' LS Trans Leak

flcorrections19 · 04-20-2008, 02:29 PM

Hello ALL, new to the forum.

I suspect a leak coming from around a large pan on the very bottom of the engine( 2.2). I suspect that this is the pan that holds the trans fluid but not sure. The pan is about 12'x14' and directly underneath the engine. I see where the tranny hooks the engine parallel with it but no leaks, and I don't know if its the oil pan or auto trans fluid. Please help, Also does this pan have a replaceable gasket or is this a common problem among saturns? Thank-you for your expertise!

2000 LS 2.2 Auto.

Artificialist · 04-24-2008, 01:49 PM

Most pan gaskets, engine or transmission, last about 7 years. Pull the transmission dipstick out, and smell, because ATF smells much different than engine oil. Next, get under the car, tough the leaking fluid, and compare smells.

Also, IIRC, the engine has a cast aluminum pan, and the transmission has a stamped steel pan, making them easier to identify.

If the ATF smells burnt up and is black, it is time to buy a new pan and filter anyway, and replace some ATF. Open your owners manual to the Capacities or Specifications section, and see how much ATF, and what type of ATF you need. If the manual states to use Dexron III, buy Dexron VI, as it is the only approved replacement available right now.