What is the reason for difficulty in shifting gears after changing the transmission oil?
2 Answers
The reason for difficulty in shifting gears after changing the transmission oil is: excessive transmission oil, which submerges the gears; foam generated by gear agitation, causing the transmission to slip and lose power; poor quality transmission oil. Transmission oil is a lubricant used to keep the shifting system clean, and its functions are: ensuring the normal operation of the transmission and extending the life of the transmission device; providing effective lubrication at low temperatures; reducing oil loss under harsh operating conditions. The following are the steps for changing transmission oil: 1. Remove the drain plug at the bottom of the transmission to drain the old oil. 2. Remove the inner and outer shells of the transmission. 3. Remove the transmission oil filter. 4. Take off the oil pan gasket and clean the surrounding stains. 5. Wipe the cleaned transmission oil filter with cotton yarn. 6. Add new oil.
After changing the transmission fluid, I noticed the gears were particularly difficult to shift, feeling almost stuck. This is commonly caused by issues with the fluid itself, such as using the wrong type. For manual transmissions, GL-4 is typically recommended, but the shop might have provided mineral oil or excessively thick fluid, resulting in poor lubrication and increased resistance. Another possibility is that air wasn't properly bled from the system during the fluid change, creating airlocks that hinder hydraulic pressure, making gear shifts difficult. Proper fluid level is also crucial—too much fluid can cause excessive pressure, making shifts feel stiff, while too little leads to inadequate lubrication, overheating, and internal wear. A clogged or improperly installed filter can also obstruct fluid flow. I recommend first checking the dipstick to confirm the fluid level—if it's too high, drain some out; if too low, top it up with the correct fluid. Don't wait too long—if there's no improvement within a few days, return to the repair shop to have them bleed the air and recheck the procedure. Otherwise, the transmission could sustain damage and a shortened lifespan. Choosing a reputable shop for regular maintenance can save a lot of hassle—prevention is always cheaper than repairs.
