5 Warning Signs Your Manual Gearbox is Failing

When you think about it, manual gearboxes are incredibly complex pieces of machinery. With dozens of moving parts and a range of tasks to complete in the space of a single gear change, the design and operation of manual transmissions are nothing short of remarkable.

However, like all moving mechanical parts, manual gearboxes can develop problems. The stress they’re placed under is significant, particularly on older cars. Even the most reliable manual gearbox can fail if treated poorly or put through extreme conditions regularly. This blog post looks at some red flags that indicate when your gearbox may be on its last legs.



Burning Smell

If you notice a burning smell coming from your car while driving, it’s worth investigating where it’s coming from. This can often signal a problem with your gearbox. If you park your vehicle and notice a burning smell, there’s a chance it’s coming from the gearbox.

Immediately make a note of the smell and report it to your mechanic. When the gearbox overheats, the transmission fluid inside the gearbox can break down and turn into sludge. This sludge often catches on fire and can cause a burning smell inside your car.

Noises In Neutral

If your car makes abnormal noises (clanking, grinding, etc.) when you put it into neutral, it could be a sign that something’s wrong with your transmission. If you hear abnormal noises when in neutral, the first thing to check is that your parking brake is engaged. If it’s not, you may have caused minor damage to the transmission because it wasn’t adequately locked into place.

If the noise persists even when the car is in neutral with the parking brake applied, your transmission may be the culprit. If you have an older car, it may be time to consider replacing your gearbox. However, if you have a reasonably new car, it’s best to take it to a mechanic for a proper diagnosis.

Slipping Gears

If your gearbox is slipping gears (particularly on upshifts), it could signify that it’s on its way out. If you’re changing gears normally, but the car pulls more than it did, your gearbox may be slipping gears. If the problem is particularly pronounced, you may also hear grinding noises when you shift gears. It’s best to take your car to a mechanic for a diagnosis to rule out any more severe problems.

Dragging Clutch

If your clutch is dragging, it could signify that your transmission is on the verge of failure. If you notice that your clutch takes much longer than it used to engage or that you must push it down much harder than before, your clutch may be dragging. This can be caused by several things, including wear and tear, overheating, or a faulty clutch release bearing.

For safety reasons, you should have your car checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. If your clutch is dragging, it may only be a matter of time before your gearbox is completely worn out.

Leaking Fluid

The transmission fluid is critical for the health of your gearbox. If you notice that your transmission fluid is leaking, your gearbox may be failing. You may see a puddle of liquid on the ground under the front of your car, or the liquid may stain your driveway or garage floor, for example. If you notice any of these signs, you should get your vehicle looked at by a professional as soon as possible.

At Gearbox Specialists, we are experts in all aspects of gearboxes. If you’re in need of assistance, our knowledgeable staff are on hand to discuss your issue and provide the right gearbox or clutch repair service for your requirements. Get in touch today to find out more.