Manual gearbox and automatic transmission problems can wind up being very expensive to repair. It’s a good idea to know what to look out for so you can identify the problem early. Here, DRIVE Driving School identifies 10 signs that your gearbox is failing.
Check for gearbox fluid leakage
If you drive an automatic and your car appears to be struggling to change gear, when you park, check underneath for leaking red automatic transmission fluid. If oil levels are very low it may have started to burn so it may be brown or black.
You can also have problems selecting gear if your manual gearbox oil is low. You should top up the oil and get to a garage quickly.
Check dashboard warning lights
The ‘check engine’ light on the dashboard can warn you about a variety of problems, including a faulty gearbox. It’s not a warning light that should be ignored. Check coolant, oil and transmission fluid levels, or take your vehicle to the garage.
Gears become unresponsive
If you’re having trouble changing gear, your gearbox probably has a fault.
If you drive an automatic, you might notice the car will stay in a low gear for too long, and if you drive a manual, you may notice a delay between new gear selection and an increase in revs. The vehicle may also accelerate at a slower rate than the increased revs suggest.
Listen for any unusual sounds
Your gearbox may be malfunctioning if you hear unusual noises coming from it. Listen out for whining, banging and clunking.
However, these noises may be caused by other problems, perhaps a faulty engine, drive shaft or exhaust. Nonetheless, it will be time for a trip to the garage.
Beware a shake, jerk or grind
You may find the car shakes, jerks or grinds if you have developed gearbox bearing problems.
Automatic gearbox telltale signs include hesitation, slipping, or “trembling” during gear changes. Manuals are more likely to grind.
Jerking and clunking noises are more likely to be caused by failing engine and transmission mounts.
There might be a rumbling in neutral
A rumbling gearbox while neutral is engaged usually means your transmission fluid has broken down and it will need replacing. In some cases this can signify bigger, more serious problems, so it makes sense to get professional help.
The smell of burning rubber could be an omen
If you notice a rubber-like burning smell or smoke you could have a transmission problem, especially if it is accompanied with fluid leakage.
If transmission fluid burns, the gearbox will not be getting the lubrication it needs and friction will generate heat within the gearing cogs.
The car struggles to change gear
This may be caused by incorrect or low transmission fluid, blocked filters, faulty sensors or a failing solenoid.
Watch out for gear slippage
Gear slippage is an easy sign to recognise and provides a warning that your automatic transmission or manual gearbox is failing and in need of expert attention.
A dragging clutch is a common problem
Clutch drag occurs in manual cars when the clutch disc and flywheel don’t disengage fully when the clutch pedal is pressed. You might find that this results in noisy gear changes or difficulty putting your car in first or reverse gears.
