3 Gearbox Issues To Expect With An Aging Transmission
When it comes to vehicle maintenance, the gearbox is often one of the most neglected components. After all, it's not necessarily visible like other parts. Many people assume that if it's working as expected, then there's really nothing to worry about.
But over time and with a lot of use, gearboxes can experience various issues that affect their efficiency and function. This article highlights the top three gearbox issues to expect with an aging transmission and ways to remedy these problems to ensure your vehicle's longevity and performance.
Gear Slippage
Gear slippage happens when the vehicle's engine revs up, but the car does not move. It's a serious safety issue because it can happen at any speed, making it dangerous to operate the vehicle. You could experience it when shifting from one gear to another or accelerating quickly.
The cause of gear slippage is generally a lack of pressure within the transmission, which is caused by worn-out seals or synchronizers or a low transmission fluid level. Slippage can also occur due to a faulty clutch. The clutch engages and disengages the gears, so if it isn't working properly, the gears might not be able to shift correctly.
To fix gear slippage, check the transmission fluid levels and make sure they are topped up. You should also check to see if the fluid is still in good condition, with little or no contamination. You can also replace worn-out seals, synchronizers, and clutches to ensure the gears engage properly.
Shifting Trouble
Another gearbox issue that aging transmissions experience is difficulty shifting gears. This problem can be due to several factors, such as broken or worn-out shift forks, excessive gear wear, or poor-quality transmission fluid.
Difficulty shifting gears can result in less fuel efficiency and hamper the vehicle's overall performance. When you have to put a lot of effort into shifting gears, it can cause the engine to rev higher and use more fuel than necessary.
The best way to remedy this problem is to bring your vehicle to a mechanic for a thorough inspection and repair. Usually, the repairs are centered around replacing the shifter fork or repairing any worn-out gears. You may also need to replace the transmission fluid to make sure it is of good quality.
Strange Noises
When shifting gears or driving, hearing rattling, whining, or grinding noises can mean various issues, including worn-out gears, low-quality transmission fluid, or a defective solenoid. The solenoid controls fluid flow through the transmission and can fail over time due to excessive wear and tear.
Usually, strange noises might mean that the transmission already needs major repairs. The friction and heat created by the worn-out gears can damage other transmission components and cause more serious issues. Visit an auto repair shop if you experience any strange transmission noise when driving.
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