5 Essential Facts About Gearboxes

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If you own a car, you need to understand how its various systems work. That includes the gearbox. As a car owner, here are some essential facts you need to understand about your gearbox.

1. Manufacturer's Recommendations Vary

When it comes to getting your gearbox serviced, the recommendations vary based on the type of gearbox you have and the type of vehicle you drive. Check your manual or talk with a car service professional at the dealership. They can let you know what the target recommendations for your particular car are.

2. Power Flushing Can Be Useful in Some Situations

Typically, the recommendations tell you how often you need to have the fluid in your gearbox changed. Changing the fluid is essential as the fluid gets old and doesn't work as well. However, in some cases, you may want to talk with a gearbox specialist about a power flush.

A power flush drives the fluid through your gearbox in an aggressive manner. That helps to knock out any sludge that has built up in your gearbox. If your gearbox makes noises while changing gears, or if you have noticed metallic bits in your fluid, those are signs that you need a power flush.

3. It's Important to Know the Signs of Repairs

Ideally, you should know which symptoms indicate that your gearbox needs a repair. If your vehicle feels like it's lurching forward when the gears change, and if that's accompanied by a grinding noise, your gearbox is not functioning correctly.

4. You Can Top Up Leaking Fluid

Additionally, if you see a puddle under your car that is not windscreen washer fluid or oil, that could be transmission fluid. To test it, put your finger in the puddle. Then, visually examine and smell the fluid. A sweet odour and a red colour usually means you have a leak in your transmission.

In these situations, you should top up the fluid. Then, get your vehicle in for a gearbox repair as soon as possible. If you try to run the gearbox dry, the whole thing can break, and instead of repairing a leak, you may end up needing to get a whole new gearbox.

5. You Need to Check for Recalls

Finally, to be on the safe side, you should always check for recalls. Normally, if part of your gearbox has been recalled, the manufacturer will mail you a notice based on the address to which your vehicle is registered. However, if your information is not updated, you may not receive the notice. Keep your records updated to avoid that issue.


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