Transmission Tub: Purpose, Symptoms of Breakage & Price in KSh

The transmission tub, also known as the transmission pan or oil pan, plays a crucial yet often overlooked role in your vehicle's transmission system. This essential component serves multiple functions that directly impact your vehicle's performance and longevity. This article explores what a transmission tub does, how to identify when it's failing, and what you can expect to pay for replacement in Kenya.

What is a Transmission Tub and Its Purpose?

The transmission tub is a metal or aluminum container attached to the bottom of your transmission. It serves three critical functions:

Oil Storage: The tub holds the transmission fluid when the vehicle is not running. This fluid is essential for lubricating moving parts, cooling the transmission, and facilitating smooth gear shifts.
Contaminant Collection: Over time, normal wear within the transmission produces metal particles and debris. The transmission tub collects these contaminants, preventing them from circulating through the system and causing damage.
Heat Dissipation: The transmission tub helps dissipate heat from the transmission fluid, preventing overheating that could damage internal components.

Many transmission tubs also contain a magnet designed to attract and hold metal particles, further protecting your transmission system from potential damage.

Common Symptoms of Transmission Tub Breakage

A damaged transmission tub can lead to serious issues if not addressed promptly. Here are key indicators that your transmission tub may be compromised:

1. Transmission Fluid Leaks

The most common sign of transmission tub damage is fluid leaking beneath your vehicle. This reddish fluid typically appears after your car has been parked for some time. Even small leaks should not be ignored as they can quickly worsen.

2. Overheating Transmission

A cracked or damaged tub often results in low transmission fluid levels, causing the transmission to run hot. This may trigger warning lights on your dashboard or cause rough shifting.

3. Contaminated Transmission Fluid

If your transmission tub is damaged, external contaminants like dirt and moisture can enter the system. During regular maintenance, your mechanic might notice that the fluid is unusually dark, cloudy, or contains debris.

4. Unusual Noises

Low fluid levels resulting from a leaking transmission tub can cause grinding or whining noises during operation, particularly when changing gears.

5. Shifting Problems

You might experience delayed engagement when shifting from park to drive, or rough, delayed shifting between gears due to insufficient fluid levels.

Transmission Tub Replacement Cost in Kenya (KSh)

The cost of replacing a transmission tub in Kenya varies depending on several factors, including vehicle make and model, type of transmission, and whether you choose a dealership or independent garage.

Average Price Range (as of May 2025):

Economy Cars: KSh 8,000 - KSh 15,000
Mid-size Vehicles: KSh 12,000 - KSh 22,000
Luxury Vehicles: KSh 20,000 - KSh 45,000

These prices typically include:

The cost of the new transmission tub
Gasket and necessary seals
Transmission fluid replacement
Labor costs

Factors That Influence Price:

Original vs. aftermarket parts
Your vehicle's accessibility (some vehicles require more labor to access the transmission)
Additional repairs identified during inspection

Preventive Maintenance

To maximize the lifespan of your transmission tub:

Follow the manufacturer's recommended schedule for transmission fluid changes
Address small leaks before they become major problems
Avoid driving with low transmission fluid levels
Consider installing a transmission cooler for vehicles frequently used in hot conditions or for towing

For professional assistance with transmission tub issues or to schedule an inspection, contact a qualified mechanic at 0770029959.

Regular maintenance and prompt attention to transmission issues can save you significant repair costs and extend the life of your vehicle's transmission system, ensuring smooth and reliable performance for years to come.