Common Gearbox Problems

by Ronel Forbes

September 13, 2022

The gearbox of an automobile transmits engine power to the wheels. It is one of the most important parts of your car as a result. However, you could tend to ignore it until everything stops working! Regular maintenance should keep everything running well.

However, if you do experience a problem, being aware of some of the most typical gearbox issues will help you prepare for the service center and handle the situation appropriately.

List of typical auto Gearbox issues and their Fixes

You don’t want your gearbox to have troubles as it is a critical component of your car. We’ve compiled a list of common gearbox issues and highlighted how to spot and solve them to make things easier for you.

Power outage

The car’s acceleration is one of the most prevalent gearbox issues. Your car’s transmission may be inefficient if you notice a noticeable delay in acceleration. You should be concerned if, upon shifting into a gear, the RPM (Rotation Per Minute) climbs yet the vehicle’s speed barely changes.

Cause

Defective or worn-out clutch plates
The master cylinder’s fault
An oil leak

Solution

To transport your vehicle to the service station, dial roadside help.
Consult a concerned mechanic about the loss of power. If there is a problem, address it before you start driving your car.

Unable to shift gears

Changing gears could be challenging. The act may even cause the gearshift to grind to a halt. It might result from the following reasons.

Cause

Low gearbox oil levels
A clutch linkage or shift cable issue
sensor problem
There is a service interval

Solution

Check the oil and add more if necessary
Adapt the clutch linkage or shift cable
Get the sensor corrected
Get the vehicle serviced right away

Clunking sounds when shifting gears

Clunking or buzzing sounds made when shifting gears could be a sign that the car’s gear box is having problems.

Cause

Faulty gears
Gearbox oil is low
Worn out bearings

Solution

Replacing faulty gears
Fill up on lubricants
change the bearings

Leaking fluid

The most obvious problem is the vehicle’s undercarriage fluid leak. Most frequently, it can be the gearbox oil.

Cause

Gasket or seal failure
The transmission casing has a crack.
Defective or damaged drain seal
Unsecured nuts or bolts

Solution

Observe protocol and tow the car to the service center for a complete inspection rather than driving it there
Replace the damaged seal or, if there’s a major issue, have it fixed before you start the car

Burning odor

A burning odor may come from the bonnet or the inside of your automobile whenever you attempt to engage the transmission. It might be a problem with the car’s gears.

Cause

Wire insulation on the exhaust manifold is on fire.
The transmission is overheated.
into the exhaust manifold due to oil leaking
Low level of oil
Incorrect kind of transmission oil

Solution

Examine the leak and fix it.
If the oil is too thin or thick, replace it.
Authentic transmission oil will improve performance.

Unsteady automatic transmission

A gearbox issue may exist if you have an automatic car and observe that the transmission trembles and won’t shift gears. Sometimes the car may make a rattling sound and be unable to shift out of first gear.

Cause

Torque converter failure

Solution

Torque converter replacement or repair

Jumping gears

Without your intervention, the transmission in your car shifts into the highest or lowest gear. Jumping gears or slipping and popping into and out of gear are terms used to describe this.

Cause

Insufficient transmission fluid
worn-out or broken linkage rod

Solution

Add more fluid or drain the old one and replace it
Fix or replace the linkage rod

Transmission filter blockage

There will unavoidably be wear and tear because of the movement of gearbox components. This causes dirt and filth to build up on the transmission fluid. A transmission filter eliminates the impurities for cleaner oil to stop this problem.

But with time, it can become clogged and unclean, which would stop the fluid from lubricating the gearbox.

Cause

Antiquated transmission fluid
Fluid is not authentic or original

Please read: STOP BELIEVING THESE CAR MYTHS

How to prevent typical gearbox issues

It’s essential to prevent typical automobile gearbox issues if you want to keep your car running smoothly. It’s critical to avoid gearbox problems in your car because they might result in costly repairs. Here are some pointers for maintaining the transmission of your car.
Find a qualified mechanic: It is essential that you choose a mechanic, automotive expert, or service facility that specializes in the make and model of the vehicle you drive. It guarantees that you will obtain high-quality assistance and preventative measures.
Regularly inspect the car: Your technician or an expert should regularly check the vehicle for any issues before they become serious ones. For the best results, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Respect planned maintenance: Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s advised maintenance intervals. By doing this, you can be sure that your car is always in good shape.
Follow up on suspicious symptoms: By acting quickly in response to suspicious symptoms, such as those stated in the above list of symptoms of typical gearbox issues, the level of damage and repair costs may be minimized.
Drive carefully: Some essentials of driving safely include just using the clutch when necessary, not using the clutch as a footrest, etc. Driving carefully will prolong the gearbox’s life.

Does replacing a gearbox make sense?

Are you considering changing your gearbox? This frequently depends on how old and valuable your car is, as well as on whether you think the expense is justifiable.

It might not be necessary to replace your gearbox entirely, depending on how serious the problem is.

You might be able to fix the gearbox in your car. However, keep in mind that only the problematic component is fixed during a gearbox repair, thus there may be further problematic components in the transmission.

Get motor car insurance to cover your needs in an emergency situation and to help you with any financial difficulties that may arise from unplanned events involving your vehicle.