Citroën SM gearbox repair: our practical guide

Renowned for its reliability and craftsmanship, the SM is not immune to breakdowns, and its gearbox is no exception. Follow our guide to a trouble-free repair !

The main steps in gearbox repair

Identify the source of the fault

The Citroën SM gearbox SM gearbox a complex elementcomposed of numerous parts. Synchronizers, linkages, pinions, drive shafts, clutches and flywheels can all be at the root of the problem.

The first step to an effective repair is to determine which part of your gearbox is defective. To do this attentive to the various symptoms as you drive, as these will tell you the nature of the malfunction. These symptoms include :

• Hard gearbox feel. Clutch pedal or gearshift lever resist handling;
• Burning smells in the cabin. Often linked to a clutch problem, these odors are most noticeable when starting the engine;
• A slippery sensation when starting off or shifting into reverse;
• Noisessuch as squeaking, rattling or squeaking ;
• A general drop in performance (especially if you have an automatic gearbox).

Change the gearbox oil

Also known as transmission oiltransmission oil plays three major roles: it lubricates parts to reduce friction, it dissipates heat and it supplies the hydraulic pressure needed for gear changes.

Over time, transmission oil becomes loaded with metallic residues and other impurities, compromising its efficiency. Similarly, leaks can alter the amount of oil in the gearbox of your Citroën SM.

That's why it's essential to change the transmission oil regularly. and replacement of the transmission oil.. Regularly check the quantity and quality of your oil: if it's black, it needs changing.

Consult a professional mechanic

Changing your gearbox oil is a relatively simple operation, which can be carried out at home with a minimum of equipment, and is sometimes enough to give your vehicle a second wind.

In the case of more advanced damage or breakdowns, it is advisable to consult an experienced mechanic. He or she will be able to make a precise diagnosis and carry out the appropriate repairs. When you take your Citroën SM to the garage, describe in detail any symptoms you notice while driving, so that you can guide the mechanic in the right direction. in order to guide the mechanic in the right direction..

Replacing defective parts: your options

Repairing common faults

Most gearbox faults can be easily rectified by your garage. A transmission oil change or the replacement of wear parts such as sprockets can sometimes suffice.

Once repairs have been completed, be sure to follow the maintenance recommendations provided by the professional mechanic to extend the life of your gearbox: handling the clutch and gearshift, regular maintenance, things to avoid, etc.

The special case of advanced deterioration

It can happen that the gearbox on your Citroën SM is declared irreparable by the mechanic. A transmission system being particularly complex, garages have neither the time the time and equipment to carry out such repairs..

The solution is then to have a new gearbox installed, which is virtually impossible in the case of a SM, due to the age of the model. Conversely, the second-hand market is a a false good idea With no opportunity to test-drive in real-life conditions, you have no idea of the quality of the product you're buying.

Our solution is made for you ! Once your garage has dismantled your gearbox, we take it back to our workshops and disassemble it, part by part, for a thorough cleaning. Worn parts are replaced, then the system is thoroughly tested once reassembled, before being delivered to you. You then benefit from a brand-new box, but at pre-owned at pre-owned prices, with a one-year warranty !

Contact an advisor and let us guide you: it's fast and without obligation !