Why is it difficult to shift gears after changing the transmission oil?
3 Answers
The reasons for difficulty in shifting gears after changing the transmission oil are: 1. Too much transmission oil, causing the oil to submerge the gears; 2. The agitation of the gears can produce bubbles, leading to transmission slippage and loss of power; 3. The transmission oil is unsuitable. Transmission oil is a lubricant used to keep the gear system clean, and its functions are: 1. Ensuring the normal operation of the transmission and extending the lifespan of the transmission device; 2. Providing effective lubrication at low temperatures; 3. Reducing oil loss under harsh operating conditions. The steps for changing transmission oil are: 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 thread; 6. Add the new oil and complete the installation.
I just had my transmission fluid changed recently, and now shifting gears is particularly difficult, which is quite common. Most of the time, it's because the new fluid isn't suitable—maybe the viscosity doesn't match, or the quality is subpar. If the fluid level is insufficient during the change or there are air bubbles trapped in the system, shifting can also feel stiff. Additionally, the filter might be clogged with debris from the old fluid, restricting proper flow. Changing transmission fluid is like giving someone a blood transfusion—it has to be done with the right stuff. I recommend checking the dipstick first to see if the fluid level is correct. If that doesn’t help, take it to a professional mechanic for a diagnostic scan to avoid further damage to the transmission. Don’t keep test-driving it, as that increases wear and tear—safety first.
I've encountered gear shifting issues after transmission fluid changes quite a few times. Usually it's due to incorrect fluid selection or improper replacement procedures. For instance, if the fluid viscosity is too low, insufficient gear friction makes shifting difficult. The filter might be old and uncleaned, with accumulated debris affecting fluid pressure. Sometimes overfilling or underfilling causes unstable internal pressure. I recommend immediately checking fluid level and color - if it's black or thin like water, there's a serious problem. Best to stop driving and return to the repair shop for technicians to drain and refill with standard fluid. Continued driving damages internal transmission components, leading to higher costs - early resolution saves trouble.
