If you still love the thrill of the drive in your manual transmission vehicle, you are part of a shrinking population of American drivers. Over the last few decades more drivers have migrated to automatic transmission vehicles out of convenience and ease. But those die-hard drivers who still prefer a manual know how important it is to keep their transmission maintained.
In this month’s blog, we examine the manual transmission, and five typical issues you may have with this complex system. We also review ways to keep your manual transmission performing effectively through ongoing maintenance.
Manual Transmission Issues
Your vehicle’s transmission is a hard-working system in your vehicle that is designed to function in a variety of tough conditions. Heat, friction, motion, and dirt are just a few of the hazards that your manual transmission deals with every time you drive. Certain driving habits can also take a toll on the health of your manual transmission.
Below are some of the more common manual transmission issues and possible causes:
Low or Leaky Transmission Fluid
Many times, you will spot a pool of transmission fluid beneath your vehicle, or there may be burn-off that alerts you to a possible leak.
Transmission fluid leaks often are the result of a leaky seal or gasket. If you spot a leak, this should be checked by a service professional promptly to avoid damage and further repair expenses to your transmission.
Trouble Shifting Gears
If you are having trouble shifting gears, this may be a sign that you have a problem with your gear synchronizers. The gear synchronizers (or synchro), work to adjust the speed of the drive shaft while shifting and they can become worn or damaged.
Gear Grinding or Gear Clashing
When you experience a grinding sound and sensation while shifting, this may indicate a problem with your clutch, the gear set which is having a linkage problem, or your transmission may be low on fluid.
Transmission slips or jumps out of gear
If you have a vehicle with higher mileage, this problem may surface in your manual transmission. Some possible causes for the “slipping” may include a loose gear shifter, or an issue with the gear linkage. Another possible cause could be worn bushings, which are the friction insulators in your transmission used to protect parts.
Inability to change gears or the vehicle stalls
This issue usually springs from clutch issues, most likely a worn clutch. The clutch may wear down through improper use and then it will not operate effectively with the gear shaft.
Maintaining your Manual Transmission
There are specific service items that you can follow to keep your manual transmission in good working order. As well, you may want to examine how your driving habits may be contributing to wear and tear of your manual transmission.
Service Items:
- Check your transmission fluid at least monthly, more if you are doing a lot of heavy driving.
- Have your transmission fluid changed every 30-60K miles driven.
Driving Habits:
Many stick drivers may not realize how their driving habits can contribute to manual transmission problems.
Here are a few tips to adjust your driving habits and maintain the health of your transmission:
- Avoid the temptation to keep your hand on the gear shifter when not in use.
- Always keep the vehicle in PARK when it is off, never in NEUTRAL.
- Never ride the clutch with your foot.
- Stay away from having a “jack rabbit” start (a rapid sudden movement from stop to start).
- Always put the vehicle in neutral when stopped at a light vs. first gear.
If you notice issues with your manual transmission or would just like to get it inspected as part of a regular maintenance routine, contact the service professionals at Geller’s Automotive today to schedule an appointment.
Enjoy the ride!
