What Causes the Transmission to Pop Out of Gear at High Speeds in the Citroen C-Quatre?
2 Answers
The reasons for the transmission popping out of gear at high speeds in the Citroen C-Quatre include bent or deformed transmission components, excessive wear, loose fixing screws, deformed gear lever, severe wear of shafts and bearings, excessive axial clearance, or misalignment between the primary, secondary, and intermediate shafts. Transmission pop-out refers to the automatic disengagement of the gear lever back to the neutral position while driving. This phenomenon often occurs during medium to high-speed driving, sudden load changes, or when the vehicle experiences severe vibrations, with most cases happening in high-speed gears. The Citroen C-Quatre is a compact car under the Dongfeng Citroen brand. In terms of appearance, this car features a streamlined and rounded body, with rear taillights and the rear end outlining smooth tail lines. These elements cleverly combine with the side rear windows to form the highly distinctive Citroen double chevron logo design.
When I used to drive a Citroen C-Quatre, I also experienced the issue of gear skipping at high speeds, which was quite scary as the gear would suddenly shift. Later, when I took it to the repair shop, the technician told me it was caused by aging transmission fluid—either the fluid was too dirty or insufficient, leading to overheating and loss of control at high speeds. Another possibility was a faulty sensor, such as the speed sensor sending incorrect signals, causing the computer to shift gears erratically. I suggest you first check the transmission fluid to see if its color is normal. If it's black or has a burnt smell, it needs to be replaced. Additionally, avoid sudden acceleration at high speeds, as this can cause the fluid temperature to spike. In my case, changing the fluid helped a bit, but afterward, I made sure to inspect it every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers. Safety comes first—don’t push your luck. Get it fixed as soon as possible, as gear skipping at high speeds can easily lead to loss of control.
