Tag Archive for: gearbox

Diagnosing Your Car’s Gearbox Problem

A gearbox can be extremely costly to replace. Therefore, if there is a problem you need to make sure that it is dealt with immediately. You can save yourself hundreds of pounds via seeking a quick repair and ensuring that the problem does not get worse.

 

Nonetheless, in order to be able to do this, you need to be aware of the signs that indicate you have an issue with your gearbox. Nowadays, you can find out anything online. There are tutorials on how to regas your car air con, amongst other car matters. If you can diagnose a gearbox problem, then you will easily be able to send it off and get it fixed without major damage being caused to your bank account. Read on to discover some of the main symptoms of a gearbox issue…

 

Postponed engagement

Delayed engagement is a telling sign that there is something wrong with your gearbox. If you are noticing a delayed reaction when you shift gears then this should be a cause for concern. Nevertheless, when you are driving it can be hard to notice whether the shift in gears is truly postponed. The best way to get a good idea is to test the gears whilst you are sitting in park. Keep your foot on the brake and turn the engine on. Make sure your foot is still kept on the brake and move your gear into drive position. How does the car feel? If there is a delayed response this should ring alarm bells. But, if your car imminently feels like it wants to move forward then you will be fine.

 

Depleted fluid levels

Another sign that you may have gearbox troubles on the horizon is if you have low fluid levels. There is an easy way to check this. All you need to do is take a look at the transmission dipstick. If the levels are low then this is often an indication that you have a leak in your gearbox. It is not only about checking the level of your fluid either. You also need to make sure the oil is clear and that it does not smell. If you see black flakes or experience a burnt smell, then this is another signal that something isn’t quite right. If you are unsure regarding where to find your transmission dipstick, don’t worry as this can easily be located behind the oil dipstick. The difference between the two is that the transmission stick does not come up as much.

 

Jerky gears

And last but not least, the final telling sign that you have an issue with your gearbox is when the gears are noisy or result in your car jerking. First and foremost, if you can hear a noise when you shift gears then this is a telling sign there is a problem. Not only this, but another troubling indication is a jerky car. If you experience a jerky movement when you are switching gears it is highly recommended you get this seen to as soon as possible. After all, not only does it indicate your gearbox is damaged but it can also be dangerous too.