What Causes Difficulty Shifting Gears After Driving Through Water?

[VanNorah]

After a vehicle drives through water, moisture may seep between the clutch plates, causing them to stick together. This can result in difficulty shifting gears or an inability to engage gears, accompanied by gear collision noises in the transmission. The most likely cause is water entering the clutch system, leading to shifting issues. Below are some key points about gear shifting: 1. Mastering the Coordination of Clutch and Throttle: When shifting gears, the clutch and throttle must be well-coordinated. Fully depress the clutch pedal, then release the accelerator pedal, and quickly shift to the desired gear. Release the gear lever (commonly known as the shifter) immediately after shifting—keeping your hand on it for too long can cause damage. 2. Adopting the Correct Shifting Hand Position: Many drivers neglect proper hand positioning when shifting, sometimes using just two or three fingers to move the shifter, which is neither safe nor standard. The correct hand position involves placing your palm downward over the top of the shifter, gripping it firmly with all five fingers, and then executing the shift.