Can a little transmission fluid hurt the engine?

1999 CADILLAC DEVILLE
122,000 MILES • V8 • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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MARKVELLUTATO
  • MEMBER
  • 43 POSTS
I just did the most stupid thing to my 1999 Cadillac Deville. I went to add a quart of oil and didn't realize it, but it was a quart of transmission fluid. When I went to pour it into the oil fill, I saw the red fluid and immediately stopped. I would say less than an ounce went into the engine. Can this cause any damage to my engine and do I need to get the oil changed ASAP? I'm due for an oil change in 500 miles.
Mar 9, 2012 at 10:01 AM
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CARADIODOC
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 34,367 POSTS
AHHH! Bail out! Actually, many people add the entire quart of transmission fluid to the engine oil a day or two before having the oil changed. Because of different types of additives in the transmission fluid, it does a REAL nice job of dissolving sludge and carrying it to the filter. You haven't hurt anything by adding just a taste.
Mar 9, 2012 at 10:20 AM
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CADIEMAN
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 3,544 POSTS
this will only clean the motor.i agree
Mar 9, 2012 at 4:57 PM
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