A gearbox, also called transmission, is a
mechanical device which transfers power from one part to another. It also regulates speed and torque between car components like a load and a motor.
Simply put, a gearbox is a collection of gears connected to the wheels and shifted to manage speed and torque while driving.
The gears are arranged in different patterns to provide various speed levels while maintaining the engine performance.
Due to its constant use, wear and tear can cause various types of gearbox problems. Considering its
role in directing power from the engine to the wheels, it is necessary you never overlook them. Understanding what these issues are is essential for timely identification and resolution to maintain the optimal performance of the gearbox.
List Of Common Car Gearbox Problems
- Insufficient Acceleration or Throttle Response
This problem leads to a delay in the car's acceleration. This can happen due to a faulty clutch, exhausted plates, worn-out clutch springs or air in the fluid passage.
- Transmission Fluid Spillage Under Your Car
Transmission fluid is a bright orange liquid required to lubricate the gearbox. It can spill and accumulate under your car because of excessively high oil levels in the enclosure, damaged oil sealings, loose nuts or bolts or a crack in gear sealing.
- Grinding Noise and Buzzing During the Gear Shifts
One of the most common gearbox problems is the shaking and grinding of your car during a gear shift. It can happen due to a dry rear wheel bearing on the main shaft, damaged speedometer drive gears, insufficient lubrication because of worn bearings and shaft, or excessive recoil in a gear train.
- Difficulty in Gear Shifting
The car gear can stop working correctly and sometimes, can even get completely stuck. This problem requires immediate attention. The main reasons for this are defective clutch linkage or excessive tough shifter lock spring. This can also occur due to distorted main shaft splines, synchronization errors in automatic transmission, or distorted gear teeth.
- Gears Slipping
If your vehicle turns back to its previous gear after a gear shift, it is called a gear slip. The kit usually slips into neutral or lower gear, which can be dangerous. It usually happens due to faulty or exhausted gear and thrashed gear teeth.
- Burning Smell
A burning smell can indicate faults in your gearbox. It usually happens due to a shortage or overheating of transmission fluid.
- Congested Filter
To maintain clean transmission fluid, it is necessary to have a good filter. A congested filter is clogged up with impurities and can ruin transmission fluid. It happens due to negligence in the service of the filter.
Conclusion
Most of the gearbox problems mentioned above require the replacement or servicing of certain parts of the car, which can be heavy on the pocket. Car insurance comes in handy in situations like this. Getting your car's gearbox regularly serviced is like giving it a check-up, keeping it running smoothly and reducing the chances of big problems. Taking care of your gearbox not only keeps your car performing well but also makes it last longer. So, a combination of regular maintenance and insurance is a smart way to keep your car in good shape without breaking the bank.