Gear oil is an essential and essential component in every car. Thanks to him, the correct operation of the gearbox is ensured. The process of checking or changing the oil is not difficult, but it requires special attention.
The content of the article:
The car can be equipped with 2 types of gearboxes: automatic and manual. This article will focus on the second type of checkpoint. It is this type of gearbox that is most often found on basic trim levels or standard for cars.
The concept and principle of manual transmission
The manual transmission is a special mechanism by which the driver changes the degree of rotational motion of the engine flywheel. Thus, the driver changes gears, each of which adapts the movement to certain conditions.
The manual transmission consists of several important details. First of all, this is the crankcase (gearbox housing), into which oil is poured. Synchronizers follow, the main task of which is to ensure a stable speed. The next important device is the lever with which the gear changes and its mechanism. Depending on the shafts, there are three-shaft and two-shaft manual transmissions. The first is installed in trucks, the second type in cars.
Manual transmission malfunctions
First of all, the main technical problems of the manual transmission are associated with oil leakage. This is most often due to insufficient fastening of gaskets, oil seals or housing. In this case, it is necessary to seal the above-mentioned parts. It is best to check the oil level after every 10,000 km, even if there is no leak. An insufficient amount of oil can damage the entire gearbox mechanism.
There are times when gears are turned off without any control or noise is heard when the gearbox is operating. Here the breakage concerns gears or synchronizers. In order to fix the problem, the worn parts must be replaced. Another malfunction is associated with the fact that it is difficult to engage the gearbox. Here we are talking about a malfunction of the gearshift mechanism itself.
Oil check procedure
Before starting the oil check, place the vehicle on a level surface so that you can easily inspect the transmission. Care should be taken when measuring oil, it should not get on hot parts, otherwise it could be a fire hazard.
There are two ways to check the oil. The first involves using a probe. It is usually located on the side or back of the engine. In this case, remove the dipstick, wipe it and then lower it again for about 10 minutes. Then pull it out again and carefully inspect the end of the dipstick where the mark is located. If the oil height is at a minimum or lower, add oil.
After that, you should lower it back again, wait a couple of minutes and check the oil level again. It is advisable to fill it so that it slightly exceeds the maximum point, but it is important not to fill it completely, otherwise it will be much more difficult to eliminate the consequences. After the performed procedure, you should lower the dipstick and complete the verification process.
In the second case, the car is installed on a special engineering structure, an overpass or driven into a special pit. In order to check the oil, you need to take a small stick and find the hole where the oil is poured. If the hole allows, you can do the entire procedure with your finger. It will be much more convenient this way.
The hole should be cleaned before work. Then carefully unscrew the plugs. Next, you need to put your finger there and thus check the oil level. If it is below the minimum mark, fill in gear oil, as in the case of measuring the oil with a dipstick. For convenience, you can use a syringe, after which you need to wipe off the remaining oil and tighten the plugs.
Manual transmission operation
First of all, 3 factors are taken into account. The most important thing is to check the oil and prevent it from leaking. It is necessary to carefully monitor the gearbox housing, as it is usually fragile and can easily be damaged.
For this, special protective equipment is installed. And finally, when driving, the warrior must switch gears carefully, slowly and without sudden movements. Only in this case the manual transmission will last a long time and will work smoothly.
Repair cost
The price of a manual transmission hovers around $ 400. There are different types of gear oil and, accordingly, the price for them is different. For example, 1 liter of mineral transmission oil will cost up to $ 30. In turn, the price of a semi-synthetic or synthetic gear oil will range from $ 20 or $ 50.
Video about measuring oil in manual transmission:
The gearbox is an intermediate unit between the power plant and the wheels. With its help, the rotation speed of the main pair is regulated, and the torque is set. Like any mechanical unit, the gearbox needs lubrication. How to check the oil in any box and understand what needs to be refilled or replaced, we will tell you in detail.
In addition, in an automatic transmission, the fluid has more than just a lubricating role. In a traditional "automatic", gears are engaged using a complex valve system.
Additional hydraulic fluid is not filled, the transmission is the only consumable in the automatic transmission. The same compound is used in the torque converter, which acts as a clutch.
In mechanics, oil can also be used off-label (not just for lubrication). The so-called "wet" clutch requires a working fluid.
Gearbox oil level
In addition to monitoring the quality of the oil and its timely replacement, it is necessary to monitor the level. Despite the tightness of the gearbox, fluid can gradually leave the mechanisms. This is due to natural wear of the oil seals, leaky gaskets, and even cracks in the gearbox housing.
By regularly checking the oil in the box, you maintain its performance and prolong the life of the mechanisms. An excess of fluid is no less dangerous than a lack of fluid.
Mechanical and automatic transmissions, in fact, are powerful gearboxes with variable gear ratios. There is no universal indicator of the amount of lubricant or its level.
Depending on the type of gears, the lubrication method is also different:
Excessive oil in the gearbox crankcase leads to a violation of this lubrication system. In addition, excess fluid increases the resistance to rotation.
With regard to the automatic transmission: a lack or excess of fluid may cause loss of performance. The control takes place using valves.
For the correct gear change, it is necessary to provide a calibrated amount of hydraulic fluid, therefore regular checking of the oil in the automatic transmission is vital.
How to check the oil in the box?
Most gearboxes (both mechanics and automatic) are equipped with a special dipstick - a level indicator. As a rule, it is a strong cable with an indicator at the end. 
The gearbox is located in the depth of the engine compartment, and in cars with rear-wheel drive, it is completely under the passenger compartment. It is for this reason that the probe is made in such an unusual way.
The measurement process itself is simple: you need to remove the indicator, wipe it with a clean cloth, then reinsert and remove the dipstick. Assess the level according to the vehicle routine maintenance instructions (the fluid mark is located between the MIN and MAX marks), and visually determine the condition of the oil. 
Before measuring, prepare the gearbox - perform a series of simple procedures.
Automatic transmission oil check
Some indicators have “cold” and “hot” level check marks. However, in most cases, it is required not only to warm up the gearbox, but also to fill all channels and valves with transmission fluid.
To do this, start the engine and warm it up for 5-10 minutes. Then, keeping the brake pedal pressed, move the automatic transmission lever alternately to all positions for 15-30 seconds. Return the selector to the “parking” position, turn off the engine and let the oil settle for 10 minutes.
If the gearbox is not equipped with a dipstick (this happens if the manufacturer considers the automatic transmission to be maintenance-free), the level of the transmission fluid can be estimated from the filler hole. To do this, simply unscrew the plug and check for oil with your finger, or a cotton swab. The liquid should be at the bottom of the hole.
Instructions for checking oil in a 4-speed automatic transmission - video
How to check the oil in the manual transmission
The transmission must be warmed up before measuring the level. You need to drive 3-5 km, or let the engine run for 10-15 minutes at idle. After that, with the clutch pedal depressed, it is necessary to shift several gears and return the lever to "neutral".
Checking the oil level in the manual transmission box - video
After muffling the engine, let the oil drain to the bottom of the crankcase for 10 minutes. You can check the level in any of the following ways: with a dipstick (if available) or using a filler plug.
Helpful information
If, when checking the oil in the box, you find a "shortage", in addition to restoring the volume, you must find the reason. In most cases, it is sufficient to make an external inspection of the gearbox. Leakage is localized by replacing oil seals, gaskets, restoring the integrity of the body.
To assess the condition of the grease by color, it is necessary to compare the sample on the dipstick with a drop of fresh gear oil. The liquid should not contain soot, solid particles, water emulsion.
It is necessary to check the oil level in the gearbox every 15,000 km, as well as if oil leaks are found on the gearbox crater.
We carry out the work on an overpass or observation ditch.
We check the oil level through the control (filler) hole, which is located in front of the gearbox housing.
Clean the gearbox housing around the inspection hole with a rag.
Using a spanner wrench or a "17" head, we loosen the tightening of the filler plug.
We finally unscrew the plug by hand.
A metal sealing washer is installed under the plug.
Replace the defective washer with a new one.
The gearbox oil level should be at the bottom edge of the filler hole, which can be checked with a finger.
If necessary ...
… Fill the gearbox with a syringe for filling the transmission oil up to the lower edge of the hole (oil will start to flow out of the hole).
When the excess oil flows out, remove the oil drips with a rag.
We wrap the plug with a torque of 30-42 N ∙ m.
It is necessary to change the oil in the gearbox every 90 thousand kilometers.
Before changing the oil, warm it up by driving the car for at least 10 km. It is best to plan an oil change after a long trip.
We clean the gearbox housing around the drain and filler holes.
We put a container with a volume of at least 2.5 liters under the drain hole.
With a spanner wrench or a "24" head, we loosen the tightening of the drain plug ...
… And finally unscrew the plug by hand.
We drain the oil into the substituted container.
The connection between the plug and the gearbox housing is sealed with a metal washer.
If necessary, replace the drain plug sealing washer with a new one. We clean the plug magnet and wrap the plug with a torque of 35-45 N ∙ m. Using the 17 key, unscrew the filler plug. Fill the gearbox with a syringe to the required level and tighten the plug (see above).
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You are asking the question "How to check the oil in the box?" The answer to this question is very simple and we will consider it below.
The gearbox is the second most important unit, after the engine, which drives the car. Therefore, you need to monitor the condition of the gearbox, know when, after how many kilometers your box will need to replace this fluid.
You also need to understand that only transmission must be poured into the gearbox, which differs from oils intended for engines and other units. ensures its long and trouble-free operation:
- facilitates the work of mechanical parts;
- removes heat;
- removes the remnants of corrosion and microparticles from the places of wear.
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What volume should be in the checkpoint?
Cars of different brands and models differ in their design, respectively, there are differences in the structure of the boxes. Different models of different cars are filled with different amounts of oil. Find an unambiguous answer to the question "how much oil should be in the box?" you can only read the manual or the instruction manual for the car, or find out at the service station. When replacing, it is worth remembering that there are differences in their compositions and types. You should always buy with a small margin (0.5 - 1 liter) so that there is a possibility of refilling in the event of a leak during replacement.
Types of oils
There are three types for the gearbox:
- synthetic;
- semi-synthetic;
- mineral.
Synthetic
It is considered the most modern, it is well cleaned and enriched with additives that maximally protect the mechanisms from corrosion. It is mainly poured into automatic transmissions or manual transmissions in high-end vehicles. In an automatic transmission, it should be changed every 50 thousand km. mileage. In mechanical ones - every 60-70 thousand km. mileage. In terms of cost, this type is the most expensive, but also the best. But this does not mean that it can be poured into boxes of old cars: they may simply not be designed for this!
Oil pouring from the bottle Semi-synthetic
Semi-synthetic is used in most budget foreign cars, in the entire series of the 10th family of AVTOVAZ (Lada Kalina, Priora). It contains a number of chemical additives that protect gears, synchronizers and other mechanical parts from wear. It costs to replace such oil every 40-50 thousand km. mileage. The biggest plus is the value for money.
Mineral
Mineral is used in bridges and gearboxes of rear-wheel drive vehicles. For example, in the entire line of classics of AVTOVAZ or similar cars, as well as in some trucks. Mineral minerals are cleaned less than all the others, respectively, degrades faster and requires replacement quite often - every 35-40 thousand km. mileage.
How to check the level in the gearbox?
Checking the oil level in the box of modern cars is quite simple. For this, there is a dipstick in the box, on which there are two marks "max" and "min".
Maximum level mark and minimum level mark on the dipstick The “max” mark indicates the maximum level, and “min” - the minimum level. The quantity should be such that the level on the dipstick is close to the "max" indicator. Also notice the color and smell it. Wipe the dipstick with a white rag and assess the viscous fluid. If the color is very dark, close to black, then you should think about replacing. If the dipstick smells like burning, it means that the oil has lost its properties and burns out during operation.
How to top up?
If, when checking the level, you find that the volume is close to the "min" mark or below it, and it is not time to change the oil, then you need to top up it and find out the reason for its consumption or leakage. In many cars, the refilling process is quite simple. If the box is equipped with a filling plug, which, as a rule, is located on top and is easy to reach, then you just need to unscrew it and add the required amount of liquid.
Filler plug in the checkpoint If the gearbox does not have a plug, then you can top up through the dipstick hole. To do this, arm yourself with an ordinary large medical syringe, with which you draw oil and inject it into the hole. In vehicles that do not have a dipstick or a filler plug, it is necessary to add oil through the sensor holes. As a rule, this is a speed sensor or a reverse sensor. When refilling, the main thing is not to overdo it, since an excess of lubricant can lead to a quick failure of the gearbox.
Video "Changing the oil in the box and axle"
Using the VAZ 2106 as an example, you will see how you can change the fluid in the gearbox using a syringe.
Do you know how to check and add fluid in the gearbox? Share your experience with our readers in the reviews!
Each driver, when buying (new and old cars), and in other cases, checks the car for the serviceability of all parts, mechanisms, as well as the gearbox.
For those new to the road, we will explain what a gearbox is and what function it does.
What is a manual transmission and its main task in the operation of a car
Manual transmission - manual gearbox. There is also an automatic transmission - an automatic transmission and other varieties such as: variator, robotic. Our article will interest drivers with manual transmission.
To begin with, the gearbox is the kind of device every driver needs. It is found in every car with an internal combustion engine. Since the engine of each car has a rather narrow range of revolutions, at the moment of rotation, which maximum power is reached, the need for this device is fully confirmed. Every driver is familiar with the "red zone" in engine operation. For newbies, we will clarify this point. The red zone is a certain limit of the speed, exceeding which will lead to engine breakdown.
Every driver should know about the device of the manual transmission and about the principles of its operation - to carry out checks that will determine the operability of the machine, as well as to avoid breakdowns.
What is the manual transmission for?
Manual transmission - transmits, converts and changes the direction of the torque from the engine flywheel. Gear shifting is carried out mechanically: with a lever - the function of which gear shifting. At the beginning of the torque occurs: 1) transmission to the output shaft, 2) transmission to the wheel drive.
What does the manual transmission consist of?
List of manual transmission parts:
From the crankcase;
Synchronizer;
Shift lever;
Shafts with gears;
An additional shaft that has gears for reverse travel;
Gear shift mechanism, which is equipped with a locking device, as well as locks;
The manual transmission body is made from light metal, inside which the entire gearbox mechanism is fastened. Oil is poured there - transmission oil, and such a lubricant as nigrol is intended for use in models of old-style cars
The function of these parts is as follows:
Synchronizers - provide a smooth engagement of gears, as well as without noise, at the stage of rotation of the gears - their speed is equalized.
Gearshift mechanism - designed for the driver to control gear changes using a lever.
The locking device - helps to avoid switching on two gears at the same time, and the locking device - keeps the necessary gear from switching off.
The lever is responsible for shifting gears at a distance.
There are such types of manual transmissions according to the number of shafts: 1) three-shaft - designed for heavy trucks, as well as for cars that have front and rear drives; 2) two-shaft boxes - designed for passenger vehicles with front-wheel drive.
Basic breakdowns of manual transmission
1) Oil leakage.
This occurs in the case of a damaged condition of the oil seals and gaskets, which serve to seal; weak attachment of the crankcase.
2) Noise at the checkpoint.
Noise indicates a broken synchronizer; worn condition of gears.
3) Difficult inclusion of the checkpoint.
The reason for this is a breakdown of the parts of the switching mechanism.
4) Disable transmission by itself.
The reason for this is a malfunction of the locking device; worn condition of gears, synchronizers.
In the event of the above breakdowns, the worn out parts need to be replaced for the full and proper operation of the manual transmission.
After considering the mechanisms of operation of the manual transmission and its details, we turn to the question of interest to you, which concerns checking the oil in the manual transmission.
Checking the oil level in the manual transmission
To begin with, the driver is obliged to carry out this check after every 10,000 km of run. This check is also necessary when oil leaks are found in the area of \u200b\u200bthe crankcase.
The procedure for checking:
First, the box and the area around the box are checked for leaks.
The second thing you need to do is to drive in a hole or this work can be carried out on an overpass. A flyover is a special engineering device that consists of supports and spans of the same type. Its purpose is to lift engineering structures.
Then proceed to inspect the gearbox housing, in front you will see a hole - a control filler. Here in this hole, the oil level is checked. Begin testing using your finger or a short wooden stick.
Take a rag and start cleaning the hole in the gearbox housing. Cleaning should be done around. Take a 17 wrench, then loosen the filler plugs. Then you need to unscrew the plug to the end. Under the plug there will be a sealed washer made of metal. In the event that defects are found on the washer, it should be replaced.
The oil level in the gearbox must match the lower edge of the filler hole. If there is no correspondence, and the oil is below the required level, take a filling syringe, with which it will be possible to add transmission oil. Using a syringe, add oil to the correct level. Then oil will start to flow out. Wait for the excess to drain, and then use a rag to remove the drips.
Note! In the process of pouring oil, do not allow it to get on hot parts - this threatens to catch fire! It is also better to take measurements on a cold box to avoid burns to hands and other parts.
After the done procedure, proceed to putting on and twisting the cork.
What can an insufficient oil level in the manual transmission lead to?
If there is an insufficient oil level in the manual transmission in the car, this will lead to the failure of the transmission. To avoid this problem, check the oil level in a timely manner, as well as at the first symptoms of oil leakage - check the crankcase fastening, oil seals and gaskets. If problems are found, replace these parts.
