Hello everyone. MY03 with 39k on the clock has developed a problem with its gearbox. Yesterday, 5th gear became really difficult to engage, and it would stick when pulling it back to 6th. In fact it really doesnt feel as smooth in all the gears, but 5th is the really noticable problem. It feels like there's friction as you push it into place, and definite resistance when pulling it out too? Anyone else had any problems? It's booked in to the dealers on Tuesday which is the earliest they can see her...should be a warranty job, but any ideas as to what it could be? Is it likely to be a huge problem? Any comments welcome, thanks Chris

 

Yes, there's been plenty of gearbox problems (pre 04 anyway) chances are that they'll replace the box under warranty - maybe worth paying for a new clutch while they're in there, as it's quite a big job to fit a new one IIRC

 

Sounds very similar to a problem I had on my 02, which was subsequently diagnosed as collapsed synchros in fifth. The gearbox was replaced under warranty and no further problems ensued. A number of us have had this problem over the past couple of years.

 

thanks people... lurking lawyer...how many miles were on your clock when the problems happened?

 

12K or so.

 

Same here. 5th gr syncro. g/b fixed as my local Honda place had an 'expert' mechanic. Many have glorified 'fitters' who just take out and replace parts so it'll depend on your local. Some will judge it to be cheaper and quicker just to replace than fit.

Incidentally, did you make many 2nd gear 9000rpm changes into 6th? Does it really crunch when you do this?

 

Thanks for your post. No, I'm actually good with the shifts, going through each gear, but I did notice that it wasn't feeling like itself a week ago and was awkward going into 5th. If they have to do such a big repair, does it make the car less reliable?

 

Once fixed, never had any trouble with it. Can't vouch for it now as I sold it last year but afaik it's been fine for the new owner as he hasn't posted about any g/box probs on here.

Could be argued that it's in better condition as it's been visually looked at and 'made sure' that all is in order. A new g/b may end up with the same problem if it's a design 'fault/feature'.