Chevrolet Camaro gearbox repair: a practical guide

The gearbox that accompanies the Chevrolet Camaro has also undergone numerous evolutions over the generations. If you're looking for instructions on how to repair it in the event of a breakdown, you've come to the right place! We explain it all in this article.

Engine options vary from generation to generation

The drivetrain, typical of sports cars, is rear-wheel drive. This has been a constant throughout all generations of the Camaro: engine power is transmitted to the rear wheels. Other technical features change considerably from generation to generation.

The first version of the Chevrolet Camaro, produced from 1967 to 1969, already offered the option of a two- or three-speed automatic gearbox in addition to the four-speed manual version. The engine was available with a choice of six or eight V-twin cylinders. between 140 and 430 horsepower. !

The second generation topped the two-million mark, featuring an imposing 7.4-liter 454 ci V8 engine. With eleven consecutive years of production, this model, nicknamed the Super Hugger by its manufacturer would remain best-seller of all.

Announced in 2015 and launched the following year, the sixth-generation Chevrolet Camaro is now in its second phase since 2018. Three engines are offered: the 4-cylinder 2L Turbo, the 3.6L V6 and the 6.2L V8. The latter is rated at up to 659 hp and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds. As for gearboxes, the choice is left to the driver a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic.

Gearbox repair

Identify the warning signs of a breakdown

A problem with the Chevrolet Camaro gearbox is usually accompanied by one or more symptomsthat you need to be aware of. Among the most common are :

• Cracking noises or excessive resistance when operating the gearshift indicate advanced wear of the synchronizer rings. Incorrect adjustment of control cables can also be a possible cause;
• A low humming noise and vibrations in the cabin in the passenger compartment are usually the sign of worn bearings at the end of the axles or defective sprockets;
• Vibrations while in neutral is often linked to a problem with the flywheel or clutch system. The same applies to a feeling of the vehicle spinning when you start off;
• Unusual noises when accelerating to a certain speed or using the engine brake may indicate differential wear;
• A whistling noise or a burning smell are characteristic of transmission oil failure.

Your Chevrolet Camaro may also experience a general drop in performance, particularly when fitted with an automatic gearbox: gears take longer to engage or acceleration is more hesitant.

In all cases, it's imperative not to wait for the problems to worsen and consult a mechanic as soon as possible. By describing your observations to him, you'll help him make his diagnosis.

Drain the gearbox

The gearbox in your Chevrolet Camaro is a complex component, which requires transmission oil (also known as gearbox oil) to function properly. It provides heat dissipation to prevent overheating, and lubricates the entire transmission system.

Over time, this oil becomes loaded with impurities, loses its properties or leaks: its role is no longer assured. This is why oil changes are essential. In the case of a manual gearbox, you should expect to have it serviced every 250,000 kilometers (or, failing that, every five years). Automatic gearboxes require more regular servicing: you'll need to change the oil only every 60,000 kilometers, or every two years.

Here's steps to follow to change the gearbox oil the gearbox oil:

• Drive for ten to fifteen minutes to warm up the oil and make it less viscous;
• Stop your vehicle and elevate it;
• Remove the protective plate and place a drip tray under the oil sump ;
• Unscrew the drain plug and let the oil drain out;
• Replace the O-ringand close the drain hole with it;
• Using a funnel (or suitable syringe), pour the new oil through the bleeder, paying attention to the level, which should be between the two marks on the dipstick;
• Refit all the parts, then drive a few kilometers to allow the oil to spread. Note how smoothly the gears shift ;

Stop and and check for oil leaks under your Chevrolet Camaro.

Replacing a worn gearbox without stress

Despite all your precautions, or the intervention of a mechanic, it may happen that a gearbox is no longer in working order and requires a complete replacement. This operation, already costly, is complicated by the lack of new gearboxes for the Chevrolet Camaro.

That's why we offer a wide selection of reconditioned boxes in our online catalog. All of them have been disassembled, cleaned, inspected and tested by our automotive experts, in order to quality at used-car prices.

Thanks to our solution, stock problems are a thing of the past: if you can't find the box you need, we'll collect your current box and send it back to you brand-new! Contact us : it's quick and easy !