I have a 05 with 70k miles. I recently noticed that its hard to get into gear. Not as smooth as before, especially reverse. Almost have to jam it in. I only have 70k miles and was wondering if a simple change of transmission oil might be known to help. Manual suggests tranny oil change at 120k miles.

 

Definitely change the trans fluid. I change mine once a year. I like amsoil trans fluid.

 

Depends on your driving conditions. I change mine with Honda MTF every 30k.

 

It does depend on your driving but 120K seems a bit long. I use 30K, FWIW.

This thread suggests 60K:
https://www.s2ki.com/s2000/topic/153...-of-maintance/

 

Another reason you might find it hard to get into gears is if your clutch is not disengaging all the way.

Check your clutch master cylinder for fluid level and leaks. If both are good then try bleeding. If the problem still persists you might have to adjust the play in your clutch pedal. There is an adjustment nut on the pushrod that goes through the fire wall that attaches to your clutch pedal. There should be a good 1-2 inches of play before it starts to disengage your clutch.

 

My shop suggested I do a tranny flush first. If that doesnt work, perhaps a clutch flush.

However, I am not sure of the clutch flush. The clutch doesnt seem like it sticks.

 

Have you ever flushed the clutch fluid? It's just brake fluid and should be flushed every 2 years along with your brakes.

 

I bought the car at 50k miles. It has 70k miles now. Been about 2 years or so. Don't drive it that much.
I have not flushed the tranny or the clutch since I bought the car. I have not flushed the brake fluid either.

I just double checked the manual. Replace manual transmission fluid at 120k miles or 6 years, whichever is first. I guess its been 7 years. But no where does it indicate when to change the clutch fluid.

 

The clutch and brakes use the same DOT3/4 fluid. They are hydroscopic and should be changed every 2-3 years independent of mileage.

Also, check the free play on the clutch rod.
https://www.s2ki.com/s2000/topic/289...st__p__5553794

 

I spoke to my body shop. He seems to think that a sticky tranny won't be solved by changing the MTF. MTF is changed every 100k miles according to him. He thinks its the hydraulics within the transmission itself. Sounds like a bigger job than it is.