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Transmission seals are the gaskets that seal the transmission pan with the rest of the transmission body. If the gasket fails, transmission fluid can be released, causing the fluid level within the transmission to fall, possibly causing costly damage.

Transmission seals can blow, or fail, for a variety of reasons. If a gasket has aged, and has not been serviced consistently, it can crack or break completely in certain areas, allowing fluid to escape. To worsen the situation of a worn gasket, the torque converters pressure on the transmission fluid can blow out the seals as well, especially if the torque converter is malfunctioning.

The best way to keep the transmission, and its seals, in good working order is to have consistent transmission flushes, based on the manufacturers recommendations. In addition, the seals should be inspected periodically to catch any deformities in the seal body.

Valve stem seals control the amount of oil lubrication that is provided to the valve train and ultimately the combustion chamber. This process is crucial for maintaining engine health and productivity.

A valve stem seal has a lip that helps control the amount of oil on it as it maneuvers by continually wiping away the excess. At the same time, the seal allows oil to move past it and lubricate the valve guides. Multiple factors in the engines environment contribute to the amount of oil that is needed at any given time.

If a valve stem seal begins to fail, either too much or too little oil is allowed past the seal and multiple problems may arise. With limited oil flow, engines may experience problems with overheating or spark plug issues. When too much oil passes through the valve there may be an increase in hydrocarbon emissions, as well as damage to the catalytic converter. In addition, debris from old seals may clog oil passages.