Expert Technicians

All technicians have classes and training through ATRA – Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association and ATSG – Automatic Transmission Service Group.

100% Guaranteed

At Cottman we back up our work with a 100% guarantee. We treat your car like it was our own.

Fair, Honest Pricing

We take pride in correctly diagnosing the issue with your vehicle and doing so at reasonable prices.

Manual Transmission Repair In Columbia, SC

Manual transmission… standard transmission… stick shift… all different names for the same type of drivetrain. The more correct term is manual transmission, because you shift it manually instead of it shifting on its own like an automatic transmission. The term standard transmission comes from a time when an automatic transmission was an option that you had to pay extra for when you bought the car. The manual came “standard.” And stick shift? Isn’t that one obvious?

Whatever you’d like to call them, the manual transmission enjoyed a resurgence a few years ago, when gas prices took their historic rise. That’s because most people believe that a manual transmission is generally more efficient than an automatic.

Unfortunately for those folks who went out and bought new cars with manual transmissions, that’s really no longer the case. Only the most experienced, skilled drivers will be able to nurse better gas mileage out of a manual transmission than they can get from most of today’s automatics.

Of course, there are still those people who just enjoy the feel driving a stick. Shifting gears manually makes them feel like they’re an integral part of the driving experience.

When you need manual transmission repair, there’s only one name you need to remember: Cottman. Because the technicians at your Columbia, SC Cottman center are experts with manual transmissions. They understand how they work, and they know how to fix them when they don’t.

So if your car’s manual transmission is having problems — anything from grinding gears to not moving at all, and anything in between — give your nearby Cottman center a call. They’ll be happy to check it out and let you know exactly what it’ll take to get you back on the road and shifting gears again.

Manual Transmission Repair Issues Beyond the Clutch

When it comes to driving, some purists swear by manual transmission, cherishing the control and engagement it offers. However, this experience isn’t devoid of challenges. While many immediately think of clutch issues when manual transmission problems arise, there are other complications that can affect your vehicle’s performance. Below, we delve into some of the most common problems that necessitate manual transmission repair, excluding clutch issues.

Hard Shifting or Gear Slippage

If shifting gears becomes a herculean task or the gears slip out of place while driving, you may have a transmission problem on your hands. Hard shifting could result from damaged synchronizers or misaligned gears. Gear slippage, on the other hand, could be caused by worn-out gear teeth or a stretched linkage. Both issues can make driving hazardous and require immediate attention.

Unusual Noises While in Neutral

If you hear rattling, grinding, or whining noises when your car is in neutral, don’t dismiss it as inconsequential. These sounds could signify damaged bearings, worn-out gear teeth, or insufficient lubrication within the transmission. Unusual noises are usually the first signs of a deeper problem and may need manual transmission repair.

Popping Out of Gear

A vehicle that pops out of gear unannounced is not just annoying—it’s dangerous. This behavior often indicates that the gears within the transmission are worn or damaged. In some cases, it may also be the result of a worn-out linkage or shifting fork, both of which can compromise the gear engagement.

Difficulty Engaging the First Gear from a Stop

If you find it hard to engage the first gear when you’re at a complete stop, it’s a clear sign that something’s amiss. The issue could stem from damaged hub sleeves or a misaligned transmission, among other possible culprits. Struggling to get your car moving from a stop can be incredibly frustrating and is a clear signal to consult a professional for diagnosis and repair.

Fluid Leaks

Although less talked about, transmission fluid plays a crucial role in keeping a manual transmission system running smoothly. If you notice a puddle of red or brown fluid under your vehicle, you might be dealing with a transmission fluid leak. Such leaks could originate from a loose drain plug, damaged gaskets, or even small cracks in the transmission case itself.

Poor Vehicle Response

A sluggish response when you shift gears is not to be ignored. If your vehicle hesitates before reacting or shows a delay in gear engagement, the issue might lie in the internal components of the transmission, such as worn-out synchronizers or hub gears.

Why Prompt Diagnosis and Repair is Crucial

Problems can start as minor inconveniences but often progress into major, costly issues if left unattended. Immediate diagnosis and timely manual transmission repair are crucial to ensure your vehicle’s longevity and your safety on the road. Don’t wait for these problems to escalate; consult a qualified mechanic as soon as you notice any of the above symptoms.

By recognizing these common challenges, you can address them proactively, ensuring that your love affair with manual transmission remains undiminished by avoidable issues.