The transmission of a car centres on the gearbox. No car will go properly with a damaged gearbox so they need to be kept in good working order. Car gearbox problems can be expensive to repair but they can totally transform your driving experience. By understanding the basics of how your gearbox works, you can transform your driving style and reduce the need for gearbox repairs.

The car is propelled forward when gears are changed as the engine’s speed is transformed into torque. The precise workings of the gearbox depends on if you drive an automatic or a manual car.

In a manual car, the driver engages the clutch when they want to change gear, at which time the sliding gear disengages from its existing position and is able to move up and down the gearbox, so the driver can get into a higher or lower gear. The transmission system in an automatic car however, chooses the right gear for the car to move into, the driver is not required to do anything. A hydraulics system detects the pressure of fluids in the engine and chooses the right gear based on this pressure. Instead of a clutch, a torque converter engages the sliding gear.

Now you know the basics, there are a few pointers to take on board about how your driving style can affect the gearbox and cause long-term gearbox problems If you buy a car with a good clutch on, it can last for thousands of miles, and a good driver will get a lot of use out of their clutch before it needs any maintenance. Unfortunately, some car models do come with weaker clutches, and they cannot withstand aggressive driving or inexperienced drivers without needing some attention. If you are gentle when changing gears and take more time over it then you should get more miles out of your gearbox.

Professional gearbox and clutch mechanics should be used for your vehicle’s maintenance, even for minor jobs because mistakes can be costly to fix. When you need the services of a gearbox mechanic, look for one who offers a pick up service and a courtesy car as this will help you whilst you’re waiting for your car to be fixed.

Finding a gearbox and clutch specialist is the best way to ensure that your car is dealt with by the best.