Gearbox maintenance and repair – everything you need to know

What is a gearbox and why is it important to service it?

A gearbox (gearbox) is one of the most important components of a car, responsible for transmitting torque from the engine to the wheels. Its proper operation directly affects the comfort and safety of driving. Regular transmission maintenance allows you to extend the service life of parts and prevent serious malfunctions. A gearbox can be mechanical, automatic, robotic or CVT, and each of them requires its own approach to maintenance.

Main signs of gearbox malfunction

Timely diagnostics of the gearbox helps to avoid expensive repairs. The driver should pay attention to the following symptoms:

Extraneous noises when shifting gears, especially grinding or humming.
Jerks and slippage while driving, unstable transmission operation.
Delays when shifting gears or inability to engage speed.
A burning smell from under the hood, indicating oil overheating.
Oil leakage from the gearbox, leading to oil starvation.

If at least one of these signs appears, you should contact a specialist to diagnose the gearbox. Delaying repairs can lead to serious damage.

Transmission diagnostics

Checking the condition of the transmission includes several stages:

Visual inspection – detection of oil leaks and mechanical damage to the housing.
Computer diagnostics – reading errors from the electronic control unit, especially relevant for automatic transmissions.
Checking the oil level – monitoring the condition and level of the transmission fluid, since a lack of lubrication can lead to overheating.
Test drive – evaluation of the gearbox operation in different driving modes, detection of delays or jerks.

Types of gearbox repair

Depending on the degree of damage, gearbox repair can be:

1. Partial repair

When the malfunction is associated with one or more parts, they are replaced without completely disassembling the assembly. These can be:

Gaskets and seals that eliminate oil leakage.
Synchronizers that ensure smooth gear shifting.
Bearings that prevent noise and vibration in the gearbox.

2. Overhaul

In case of serious damage, the following parts are disassembled, replaced or restored:

Gearbox housings, prone to wear and cracks.
Gears and shafts that wear out due to improper operation.
The clutch affects the smoothness of the ride.

3. Box replacement

If repairs are unprofitable, the unit is completely replaced with a new or contract one. This is relevant for cars with serious mechanical damage to the transmission.

How to extend the service life of the gearbox?

For long-term operation of the transmission, you must follow simple rules:

Use high-quality oil, change it according to the manufacturer’s regulations.
Avoid sharp gear shifts and excessive loads, especially in the cold season.
Monitor the condition of the clutch and service it in a timely manner, as a faulty clutch can lead to gearbox wear.
Perform regular diagnostics of the gearbox in specialized services to detect problems at an early stage.
Adhere to the correct driving style, avoiding sudden starts and braking.

When to contact the service?

Scheduled gearbox maintenance is recommended every 30,000 – 60,000 km of mileage, depending on the type of transmission and operating conditions. If signs of a malfunction appear, do not postpone a visit to a specialist. This is especially true for automatic transmissions and CVTs, which require careful care and timely oil changes.

What to choose: repair or replacement of the gearbox?

The choice between repair and complete replacement of the gearbox depends on the cost of the work and the degree of damage to the unit. In some cases, it is more profitable to purchase a contract gearbox than to restore worn elements. However, if the damage is minor, it is better to perform high-quality repairs, which will save the budget.

Conclusion: Regular maintenance and timely repair of the gearbox help to avoid serious breakdowns and extend the service life of the car. Entrust your transmission to professionals and enjoy a comfortable ride without unexpected breakdowns.