Manual transmissions are durable, reliable pieces of equipment. Still, sometimes problems arise. Reeves Auto Repair in San Luis Obispo has the answer to a question that plagues many manual transmissions; why does my transmission pop out of gear?

Synchronizers - Typically, this is an issue that affects higher mileage and older vehicles. If a synchronizer is bad, you’ll most likely notice the transmission is difficult to get into one or two specific gears, and only pops out of those gears. For example, since the shift from first to second is the most common throughout the life of an automobile, it’s not unusual for a transmission to only pop out of second gear. A transmission with a bad synchro will generally have more trouble on the downshift as well; it may shift ok from first to second, but third, to second causes grinding sounds and is nearly impossible. Synchronizers should be replaced, which is a very invasive process. Depending on the car, it may be worth it; while the transmission will usually last a long time with a failing synchro, it does wear out the gears over time, making the issue worse. In some cases, detergents and new fluid can be used to free up a sticking synchro.

Pilot Bearing - A bad pilot bearing allows play in the main shaft that drives your transmission. As a result, it can cause your transmission to kick out of gear at random times, or make shifting in and out of gear very difficult, particularly from a stop. This issue is typically accompanied by a whirring sound while the clutch is engaged, and should be corrected as soon as possible. Once the bearing is replaced, the transmission will likely return to normal, but if neglected there is a serious risk of destroying the transmission altogether.

Worn Gears - Worn out gear teeth will also cause a transmission to have shifting difficulties, as the gears have trouble meshing correctly. The only remedy here is to have the transmission disassembled, and the gear replaced. Typical symptoms of a worn gear will be similar to those of a bad synchro, but the gear will grind nearly every time it is selected.

If your transmission is popping out of gear, have our technicians inspect it as soon as possible. To a trained expert, subtle differences in symptoms will clue them in as to why your transmission is misbehaving, and allow them to determine how to proceed from there. For all of your transmission repair and maintenance needs, our professional technicians have you covered. For the best transmission service shop in San Luis Obispo, call or stop by Reeves Auto Repair today.

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