Ford Ka: Gearbox troubleshooting strategies

To find out how to deal with a Ford Ka gearbox failure, EDEN BOITES provides you with a complete guide to its maintenance and repair.

How to repair the Ford Ka gearbox?

Getting to know the Ford Ka engine and transmission

When the Ford Ka was launched, the sole engine was the1.3L 8V petrol, with a five-speed manual gearbox. With the launch of the second generation in 2008, the 1.3L 75 hp TDCI diesel engine was introduced alongside the 1.2L 69 hp petrol engine. For more intense driving, the 1.6 SPORTKA offers 95 hp at 5500 rpm.

Whichever model you choose, the transmission is front-wheel drive, as with most city cars: only the front wheels are driven. The five-speed manual gearbox remains the only option for all three generations.

Identify signs of failure

There are a number of signs that your Ford Ka gearbox may be failing. The most frequent symptoms are as follows:

• Clutch pedal or gearshift resistance;
• Gears that skip or downshift on their own after a gear change;
• Persistent whistling while driving, creaking when shifting gears;
• A burning smell in the cabin;
• A generalized loss of speed or power.

You can check transmission components such as synchronizers, pinions, casings, bearings, linkages and selector forks for wear or damage yourself. However, disassembly is tedious and requires a sound knowledge of mechanics and the right tools. In addition, it will be necessary to raise the car to gain access to all parts.

Check oil level

Transmission oil lubricates the various parts making up the gearbox: it keeps the gears running smoothly, preventing friction and overheating the transmission system.

Insufficient oil level is often the cause of gearbox malfunction: as the components are insufficiently lubricated, they deteriorate more quickly.

Two markings on the transmission oil dipstick show where the oil level should be: depending on the result, you can top up the quantity according to Ford's recommendations. If you notice any impurities in the transmission oil, it may be advisable to change the gearbox oil to ensure optimum lubrication. In any case, this operation is recommended once your vehicle has reached 250,000 kilometers on the odometer.

Where to buy a new Ford Ka gearbox?

Ask a mechanic for advice

Don't delay in contacting your garage if you haven't been able to identify the problem. The first stage of a gearbox repair is to make a precise diagnosis , which only an expert can establish reliably. The breakdown does not necessarily require the complete replacement of your gearbox: a simple repair can be envisaged depending on the level of wear of the components or the extent of the breakage. Otherwise, your mechanic will suggest replacing it.

What is the box code and how to identify it?

The gearbox code is a series of numbers and/or letters which formally identify your Ford Ka gearbox. In fact, on a similar model produced by the same carmaker, the gearbox may have slightly different characteristics.

This code is usually engraved or written on a label on the gearbox housing. If this search requires the complete removal of the transmission system, EDEN BOITES will help you to identify this reference by means of the vehicle's registration number or vehicle registration document.

The solution EDEN BOITES

EDEN BOITES offers quality reconditioned boxes for sale at the best prices. Each item is meticulously dismantled, cleaned and defective parts replaced by our specialists.

Our standard exchange delivery system means you don't have to worry about your old box: we promise to collect it as soon as we receive your order.

If you're looking for the Ford ka 1.2 petrol gearbox, but it's out of stock, EDEN BOITES can recondition your own. As with all our products, your gearbox comes with a one-year warranty, so you can drive with peace of mind!

Contact us to find out more about our services: request a quote online and our experts will get back to you as soon as possible!