How to Respond When You’re Subaru AT Oil Temp Light Comes On?
Has the AT OIL TEMP light on your Subaru taken you by surprise?
The light usually comes on when an anomaly in the vehicle's automatic transmission is detected; which has something to do with its fluid temperature. Upon the detection of such an important warning indicator, you must pull over your car; so that serious transmission-related issues can be prevented.
This guide explains the reasons why Subaru’s AT OIL TEMP light can come on and some of its solutions. Let’s start by discussing a few interesting facts about automatic transmission fluid
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF): Facts That You Probably Didn’t Know
Automatic transmission fluid or ATF is more than just a lubricant… It helps the transmission system with many different things, such as;
Cooling off the gearbox by getting rid of frictional heat.
Conveying torque from the engine to the transmission by filling the torque converter.
Preventing oxidation and rust formation within the transmission system.
Also, it acts as a hydraulic medium and transmits signals for the smooth functioning of the gearbox. Since the ATF does all the hard work in manipulating engine power and distributing it among the drive wheels, it is prone to overheating. Driving a vehicle with overheated transmission fluid can have dire consequences.
To prevent something like that from happening, vehicle manufacturers install sensors and warning indicators to warn the driver of any abnormal transmission fluid temperature changes. The AT OIL TEMP light in Subaru is one such warning indicator that usually comes on when the temperature of the automatic transmission exceeds the permissible limit.
Subaru’s AT OIL TEMP Light Illumination: Plausible Reasons
#1- Transmission fluid level is low
As we have already discussed, ATF is the lifeblood of the automatic transmission system of any vehicle. From lubrication to oxidation prevention; ATF does it all. If its level falls below the manufacturer's recommendation, the frictional heat generated will not be able to escape the system. This will prompt the onboard diagnostic system to activate the AT OIL TEMP light.
Solution:
ATF is the lifeblood of your Subaru’s automatic transmission system. So, always check on its level. If you feel that its level has dropped below the recommended level, top it up immediately.
#2- Rough driving
Yup, your driving habits may result in the AT OIL TEMP light on the dash of your Subaru being lit. The transmission is the centerpiece of your vehicle’s drive train system. Your driving habits do have some influence on its overall performance. If you use your vehicle to haul a heavy load or go up a steep slope, the transmission system will work harder and may overheat. Upon the detection of this jump in the transmission fluid temperature the AT OIL TEMP light will come on.
Solution:
Work on your driving skills and develop defensive driving habits… Do not use your vehicle to pull heavy loads. Please be extremely careful if you have to drive on a steep slope.
#3- Error in the sensor
One possible explanation as to why your Subaru’s AT OIL TEMP light may be on is a faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor. Located in the valve body, this sensor monitors whether there is a change in transmission fluid temperature. If the sensor goes bad and feeds inaccurate data to the onboard computer, the AT OIL TEMP light may come on. Also, wiring issues may also result in the illumination of the said warning indicator.
Solution:
A defective transmission sensor, if not replaced in time, can contribute to numerous performance-related problems in your Subaru. That's why you must check your vehicle's sensors from time to time and replace any that are bad.
#4- Faulty part
If you open up your Subaru's transmission, you'll find several components. These components work in close coordination with each other to manipulate and transfer engine power. If any of these components go bad, the transmission will not function as it should. And, you may encounter a wide range of problems including an illuminated AT OIL TEMP light.
Solution:
The transmission is a very complex piece of equipment made up of many parts of various shapes and sizes. Make sure all these components are in good shape.
To Sum Things up…
AT OIL TEMP light illumination on the dash of a Subaru is not to be taken lightly. The light signifies that the transmission oil temperature has somehow reached an extreme limit. Leaving such a problem unaddressed can contribute to all sorts of problems. So, if you’re Subaru's AT OIL TEMP warning light is flashing, get it tested by a certified professional.