If you drove it to the shop and the only symptom is the trans fluid leaking out then I think that you have a leak in your transmission cooler or a cooler line. The transmission should be fine. You may have experienced the trans acting up because of the low fluid level. It should be fine once...
wheel alignment? I know it would be a good idea but money is tight. Also, I can do minor mechanical repairs like brake jobs and maintenance. Do you think I could put the car on a jack stand and replace the outer tie rod myself??? Any knowledgeable advice would be greatly appreciated.