My car shifts ok, a bit notchy if I take time between the shifts, but if I try to shift quickly it will grind. Problem shifts are 1 to 2, 3 to 4, 4 to 3, 3 to 2... I heal and toe my downshifts so it helps with the downshifts but if the revs aren't matched *perfectly* when I slide the gear shift it'll grind. If I hit a bump going from 3 to 4 it makes it worse. Again, this only happens when I shift quickly (clutch fully depressed, of course). Any suggestions or thoughts on what to do? My first guess is it's the beginning stages of a synchro problem but it seems very odd that the problem occurs in so many gears. Could it be something out of adjustment in the shifting linkage or fluid related? What's the best way to approach this with the dealer? I still have warranty on my car. Has anyone else experienced something similar?

 

You could try simply bleeding the clutch first. I have heard several people say that this can remedy some shifting problems though I haven't had the need to do it myself.

 

First you should change the trans fluid before jumping to conclusions.
I can almost promise you an instant change in shifter feel.

Use Honda MTF first.
If it goes back to grinding, switch to either GM syncromesh or a redline product.
People ask why and why about the GM fluid, and there is enough facts about why it is compatable with the trans in the under the hood area. Also the trans in the s2000 is not made by Honda which may be why the trans responds better to other fluids.

If you switch to GM or Redline trans fluid and it keeps grinding you have issues.

Most people only see upshift grinds from 1st to 2nd.
If you have ground it a ton already the damage may be terminal to the syncros. Trans fluid would only smooth out the feel.

 

Thanks for the suggestions. I'll keep a close eye on my tranny, and mention it next time I'm going to the dealer.

 

I have the same problem in 3rd. I also have a friend that has the same problem in 5th and 6th. What year is your S?

 

Mine's an '02 and I'm using factory fluid.