What can cause overheating in an automatic transmission?

Overheating in an automatic transmission is often caused by low fluid levels and degraded fluid. Transmission fluid plays a critical role in both lubrication and cooling of the transmission components. When fluid levels are low, there is insufficient lubrication, leading to increased friction and heat generation. Additionally, degraded or old fluid can lose its ability to properly lubricate and cool, which also contributes to overheating. The fluid becomes less effective at absorbing heat and may break down, leading to further mechanical issues.

While high levels of transmission fluid can cause issues such as foaming and inadequate lubrication, they are generally not direct causes of overheating in the same way low fluid levels and degraded fluid are. Excessive engine idling can contribute to engine overheating but is not specifically related to transmission overheating. Increased tire pressure affects vehicle handling and tire wear but does not influence the transmission temperature directly. Thus, low fluid levels and degraded fluid remain the primary concerns when addressing overheating issues in automatic transmissions.