Expert advice: Transmission maintenance and repair, here's how!

Thomas Wachsmuth 26 November 2023 Car repair & tuning guide

Reading time 6 Min.

Recently updated on December 8, 2023 at 10:44 am

A good Transmission maintenance and -repair are crucial aspects to ensure the longevity and performance of your vehicle. No matter if you have a car manual transmission or Automatic drive, proper care is essential to avoid expensive repairs and ensure optimal functionality. In this article, we delve into the world of transmission maintenance and provide some insight and tips to keep your vehicle in top condition. Let's start with this manual transmission, as Manual transmission known. This type of transmission requires active participation when shifting gears and has a more direct connection to the vehicle.

Transmission maintenance & repair!

Maintaining a manual transmission primarily includes changing the gearbox regularly gear oil. This lubricates the gears, ensuring smooth operation and less wear. Another aspect is checking and, if necessary, replacing them Clutch.

A worn clutch can cause shifting problems and put strain on the transmission. Watch out for signs like a slipping gearbox or difficulty shifting gears, as these can indicate a clutch problem. At automatic transmissions However, maintenance is different. The type of transmission is more complex. But here too, a key component is Transmission fluid. It not only serves as a lubricant, but also helps the gearbox cool. It is crucial to check the fluid level regularly and change it according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Dirty or too little gear oil can quickly deteriorate overheating, Switching problems and in the worst case, lead to gearbox damage.

Watch out for strange noises!

Regardless of the gearbox type, it is important to unusual noises or behavior to pay attention. Noises such as grinding, knocking, or whining can indicate internal problems in the transmission. Delays in shifting, jerky movements or unusual vibrations can also be signs of problems. However, early diagnosis can often help resolve minor problems before they lead to larger and more expensive repairs. Another important aspect of transmission maintenance is the Using the right lubricant. Not all transmission fluids are created equal, and using the wrong type can cause problems. So browse through the manual, internet forums, or seek advice from a professional to make sure you're using the right oil for your transmission.

Do-it-yourself repair? Difficult!

When it comes to transmission maintenance/repair be it manual or automatic, it is advisable to contact specialists. Gearboxes are complex mechanisms and repair requires special skills Background and Tools. An experienced mechanic can diagnose the problem and ensure the repair is done correctly, extending its lifespan. However, there are some maintenance tasks, some of which you can do yourself, like this Checking the transmission oil level or partly swapping. The small maintenance tasks can have a big impact and help keep the transmission in good condition. In summary, transmission maintenance and repair is an essential part of vehicle care. Whether manual or automatic, each transmission requires specific care to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Regular checks, using the right lubricant and listening carefully to noises can help prevent major problems.

Instructions: Refill gear oil yourself!

Before you begin topping up your transmission fluid, it is important to follow a few preparatory steps:

Check the needs: Read this Vehicle manualto check whether the transmission oil needs to be refilled. The best way to determine the correct level is when the vehicle warmed up at a hunt.
Choosing the right oil: You can find the right gear oil in the user manual or via one Oil search. Be sure to use the exact type recommended for your vehicle.
precautions: To avoid environmental pollution, use one document (e.g. cardboard) to catch oil stains.

Instructions: Refilling the gearbox oil

Layers Select location: Park your car on a flat surface and secure it from rolling away.
Place the base: Place the pad under the transmission oil filling point.
Get tools and oil ready: Make sure you have all the necessary tools and gear oil on hand.

Refilling the transmission oil

Opening the filling opening: This is often located near the engine and is secured with a screw. Be careful to avoid damage.
Create access: On some vehicles, body panels may need to be removed to access the filler opening.
Filling in the oil: Use one thin hose and funnelto fill the oil without spilling. The correct amount of oil can be found in the manual. The lower edge of the filler opening is often an indicator of the optimal oil level.

completion of work

Cleaning: Clean the hose and funnel as well as the filling opening carefully to avoid oil stains.
Check fill level: Recheck the level to ensure it is within specification.
Reinstall parts: Restore your vehicle to its original condition.
Disposal: Dispose of the pad and rag in accordance with environmental regulations.

If in doubt, contact a specialist

If you are unsure or do not want to refill it yourself, contact a specialist workshop. There you can not only have the transmission oil refilled, but also a complete one Transmission oil change, a transmission flush or Engine cleaning have it carried out professionally.

Summary

Topping up your transmission fluid yourself can be an easy and cost-effective way to keep your vehicle in good condition. It is important to follow the right steps and seek professional help if you are unsure.

How much does transmission maintenance cost?

The cost of transmission maintenance varies depending on the type of transmission and the degree of contamination. Here is a detailed cost breakdown for one Transmission oil change:

Transmission oil change without cleaning: Material costs between €100 – €500 and labor costs between €100 – €200.
Transmission oil change with cleaning on a manual transmission, slightly dirty: Material costs from 50 – 250 € and labor costs between 150 – 300 €.
Transmission oil change with cleaning, manual transmission, heavily dirty: Material costs range from €100 – €250 and labor costs can range from €100 to €300.

When does the gearbox need to be changed?

A pair of Transmission oil change is required less frequently than changing the engine oil. If the manufacturer does not specify a specific interval, it is recommended that the first change be carried out after around 80.000 to 100.000 kilometers or six to eight years.

How much does it cost to change transmission oil?

The cost of a transmission oil change varies depending on the type of transmission and the degree of contamination. You can choose between 100 and 800 Euro are, although changing an automatic transmission is usually more expensive than a manual transmission.

How do you know if the gearbox is broken?

Signs of transmission failure include:

Sounds such as rattling or loud grinding when changing gears.
Jumping out gears.
Difficulty switching gears.
Similar symptoms can also occur Clutch damage . indicate

How do you know that there is not enough gear oil?

A transmission oil level that is too low is manifested by:

Jerking when starting or switching gears.
Oil stains under the vehicle.
If you recognize it too late more serious damage arise.

How long does it take to replace a transmission?

The duration of the gearbox replacement depends on the gearbox type and the extent of the damage:

A pair of manual gearbox can often be removed and installed within a day. However, if the damage is more severe, it may take longer.
The automatic transmissions At least two days should be planned for the repair.

Summary – Transmission Maintenance - Repair:

Regular maintenance and timely transmission repairs are crucial to the performance and longevity of a vehicle. By keeping the above points in mind, you can ensure that your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

The following note is essential: For safety reasons, tuningblog recommends all repair, inspection and maintenance work exclusively to be carried out in a specialist workshop! Although our information is summarized to the best of our knowledge and belief, we cannot assume any liability for the content. All information is therefore "without guarantee".

That wasn't it yet!

In our Auto Repair Category you will find advice and instructions on common vehicle defects, repairs and the installation of accessories/tuning parts.