Bad habits die hard! Those actions we repeat without even thinking about them become automatic over time, whether at work, in the kitchen or behind the wheel. Some of them are beneficial, like checking your mirrors before overtaking or putting on your blinker when you need to turn. But others, more insidious, can gradually damage your vehicleThis is particularly true of your gearbox.
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Behind the scenes of the transmission
Whether you're into sporty driving or comfort, here's what's going on under your feet.
Manual gearbox: to master the road
You're the conductor! You select the gears via the lever and clutch. Synchronizers harmonize the speed of the gears that transmit engine power to the wheels, while the shift fork engages the gears. Generally less expensive to buy and maintain, this gearbox has the disadvantage of not being able to withstand the high torque of the engine.disadvantage is that it does not tolerate human error.
Automatic transmission: technology takes the wheel
An electronic brain selects the right gear for youA computer that analyzes driving parameters in real time. The torque converter replaces the clutch, and the epicyclic gearbox manages gear changes. This system reduces the risk of error, but does not eliminate it.
Whatever your preferred option, remember: your gearbox is an engineering marvel that deserves your attention. Treat it with respect, and it will repay you a hundredfold on the road!
Bad habits that harm all boxes
Let's take a look at some of the mechanical errors you may be making without realizing it:
Neglecting the oil change
Whether manual or automatic, your gearbox needs lubricant. Without regular regular oil changesinternal friction increases and heat rises sharply. Gears and other components can wear until the transmission fails.
Using the wrong oil
Using unsuitable or out-of-date oil can have disastrous consequences. Choose the product recommended by the manufacturerYou'll find the reference number in your vehicle's owner's manual.
Overloading your vehicle
Turning your small city car into a moving truck means putting your box on an unwanted "sumo" diet. Respect the load limitsRespect the load limits, whatever your car model. They are indicated on your registration document or in the engine compartment.
The quirks that make your manual gearbox suffer
It's not easy to change your behavior! Yet many breakdowns can be avoided by changing a few simple gestures.
Shifting gears abruptly
This type of driving creates shocks which damage pinion teeth and shaft bearings. Likewise, the seals that ensure watertightness hate this kind of behavior. Take it easy, and you'll avoid leaks and the breakdowns breakdowns.
Keep your hand on the gearshift lever at all times
This habit may seem harmless, but by driving in this way, you are putting a strain on the gear selection ranges. a constraint on gear selection ranges. If these little parts wear out prematurely, gears become difficult to shift and more serious failures threaten.
Keep your foot on the clutch pedal
This is certainly the most widespread of bad practices. You should know that prolonged pressure causes slippage, which wears out the clutch plates. The springs and release bearing are not designed to be permanently stressed. If you want to protect your gearbox, take your foot off the pedal as soon as a gear is engaged.
Forcing a gear change
If a gear doesn't shift easily, it's not ready. It's best to avoid :
- Shift into reverse before the vehicle is stationary;
- Engage a higher gear while the engine is idling;
- Engage a lower gear while the car is moving at high speed.
The mistakes that cost your automatic transmission dearly
With the arrival of dual-clutch gearboxes and CVTs, the line is becoming increasingly blurred. These new technologies combine the efficiency of a manual with the comfort of an automatic. However, some bad habits their integrity.
From D to R without stopping
The gears are not designed to change direction so abruptly. Nor does the torque converter. In short, these violent shocks between the various parts cause irreversible irreversible damage to the gearbox.
Excessive use of N
At a red light, in a traffic jam or going downhill, leaving the vehicle in N position causes overheating which internal components. This mode is designed for short stops or to protect the transmission when towing.
Neglecting the P mode
Do not use it as a handbrake! This function is used to lock the transmission, not to support the car on a slope. By doing so, you are putting pressure on the gearbox's internal components, which can which can, in time, lead to unfortunate consequences.
If, despite your best efforts, your transmission fails you, EDEN BOITES is there for you. Specializing in used and exchange transmissions, we offer you reliable and cost-effective reliable and cost-effective solutions. Our quality parts are tested and come with a one-year warranty, so you can continue to drive with confidence.
Contact us to find out more!