Suzuki Splash Trans Failure: Grinding & Emergency Mode

Having experienced nearly identical symptoms on my 2005 Suzuki Swift diesel, I can confirm this points to a transmission cooling issue. The radiator coolant plays a crucial role in maintaining transmission fluid temperature, and when the cooling system fails, it causes exactly these symptoms. In my case, the cooling fan was malfunctioning and the transmission cooler lines had developed a hairline coolant leak where they connect to the radiator. This caused the transmission to overheat and go into limp mode. The check engine light came on because the transmission control module detected the overheating condition. A proper leak detection test revealed the exact location of the coolant leak. The repair required: Replacing the transmission cooler lines, Installing a new cooling fan assembly, Flushing the transmission fluid, Replacing the radiator coolant This was indeed a serious issue that needed immediate attention to prevent permanent transmission damage. The mechanic showed me how the old cooler lines had corroded from the inside, a common problem at this mileage. The symptoms you describe closely match this scenario, particularly the emergency mode engagement and grinding sounds. Getting a second opinion from a transmission specialist would be wise, specifically asking them to pressure test the cooling system and inspect the transmission cooler lines.

Thanks for the detailed response about your Swift transmission problems. That definitely sounds similar to what I am experiencing with my Splash. The coolant leak explanation makes sense given the symptoms. Did you remember roughly how much the complete repair cost in your case? Also, has the transmission given you any more trouble since fixing those cooling system components? The cooling fan in my car does sound a bit noisy so that could also be part of the issue. Going to get it checked out this week and will specifically ask about pressure testing the transmission cooling lines.

The cooling system repair on my Swift solved the transmission issues completely. Since fixing the faulty radiator oil pressure sensor and its cable connections for 95€, the transmission has worked flawlessly. The grinding noises and gear slipping problems disappeared right after the repair. Looking back, the mechanic explained that the defective sensor was causing incorrect readings, making the transmission control module think it was overheating. This triggered the emergency mode unnecessarily. It turned out to be a much simpler fix than initially expected, no actual coolant leaks or transmission cooler problems. Your noisy cooling fan definitely warrants inspection though. A malfunctioning fan can lead to car overheating issues even if the rest of the cooling system is fine. Getting the pressure test done is a smart move to rule out any actual coolant leaks in the transmission cooler lines. The transmission has performed perfectly for the past 6 months since the repair. No more warning lights or emergency mode episodes. If your symptoms are indeed similar, hopefully you will also find it to be a relatively straightforward fix.

Following up on my previous transmission concerns, I took the car to a different mechanic this week as suggested. They ran a full diagnostic including a pressure test of the cooling system. Turns out the transmission cooler lines had developed small cracks near the radiator connection points, allowing coolant to leak when under pressure. The total repair came to 580€ which included: New transmission cooler lines, Coolant system flush, Fresh transmission fluid, Replacement of the noisy cooling fan After driving for a few days, the transmission is shifting smoothly again with no more grinding sounds or emergency mode problems. The check engine light has stayed off and the cooling system is maintaining proper pressure. Really glad I got a second opinion instead of replacing the entire transmission like the first shop suggested. The mechanic showed me the old corroded cooler lines and explained how this is a common failure point on these models at higher mileage. They recommended checking the cooling system pressure annually going forward to catch any potential leaks early. The car runs like new now, definitely worth the investment to fix it properly.