What’s The Noise? Diagnosing Manual Transmission Issues

Sometimes it can be hard to tell if a transmission is working the way it should or not. Is it supposed to make that noise? Is that problem a symptom of the transmission or something else? Fortunately, A1 Automotive Center in Eustis, FL has the answers.

Clutch Issues - Does the transmission shudder when you take off or slip when you push on the gas? Chances are, your clutch is going bad. Remember, it’s a metal disc covered in friction material - similar to your brake pads, a clutch disc will wear out eventually and need to be replaced.

If you’re having issues with engaging or disengaging the clutch, your issue is probably with the hydraulic or cable-driven shifting mechanism itself. If the transmission grinds through all gears or is difficult to get into gear without pumping the clutch pedal, your problem is with the components that operate the clutch. If your SUV creeps forward even with the pedal to the floor, let our technicians at A1 Automotive Center take a look at the components rather than the clutch itself.

Shifting Problems - If you notice difficulty or grinding when shifting into one or two gears, you most likely have a worn or sticking synchronizer. When the synchronizers fail to do their job, it becomes difficult to shift between gears. If a gear grinds long enough due to a bad synchronizer, it’ll damage the gear as well. Once the teeth of the gear are damaged, it becomes harder to engage and will need to be replaced. This can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars, so let A1 Automotive Center take care of your car before it gets to be a real problem.

Bearing noise - The shafts inside the transmission ride on bearings. If those bearings become worn or damaged, your truck’s transmission will start making noise. On certain transmissions, some noise is normal and doesn’t indicate an issue - on others, or if the noise is an excessive whining or even grinding sound it may be a sign that the bearings are on their way out. If they go, they can take many other parts of your SUV with it. It’s also very dangerous to drive with a busted bearing.

If you believe you may be having any of these issues call or come by A1 Automotive Center in Eustis, FL today. We have certified technicians who will repair your transmission and get you back on the road in no time.