How to Fix a Broken Gear Shifter

A broken gear shifter can be a major headache for any car owner. The gear shifter is responsible for shifting the car’s transmission into the various gears, so if it’s not working right, then your car won’t be able to shift properly. This can lead to serious problems and may even require expensive repairs. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to try and fix a broken gear shifter. Read on to learn more.

Steps to Fix a Broken Gear Shifter

If you’ve noticed that your car’s gear shifter is not working properly, then you should take the following steps to try and fix it.

Step 1: Check the Gear Shifter Cable

The first thing you should do is check the gear shifter cable. This is the cable that runs from the gear shifter to the transmission. If the cable is loose or frayed, then it may be the cause of the problem. To check the cable, you’ll need to remove the shift knob from the shifter and then move the shifter back and forth. If the cable is loose or frayed, then you’ll need to replace it.

Step 2: Inspect the Gear Shifter Linkage

The next step is to inspect the gear shifter linkage. This is the linkage that connects the gear shifter to the transmission. If the linkage is loose or worn, then it may be causing the shifter to not work properly. To check the linkage, you’ll need to look under the car and locate the linkage. Inspect it for any signs of wear or damage. If the linkage is damaged, then you’ll need to replace it.

Step 3: Check the Shift Lever

The next step is to check the shift lever. This is the lever that moves the shift rod from one gear to the next. If the lever is loose or worn, then it may be causing the shifter to not work properly. To check the lever, you’ll need to locate it under the car and inspect it for any signs of wear or damage. If the lever is damaged, then you’ll need to replace it.

Step 4: Lubricate the Gear Shifter

The last step is to lubricate the gear shifter. This will help to reduce friction and make it easier for the shifter to move. To lubricate the shifter, you’ll need to remove it from the car and then apply a lubricant to all of the moving parts. Be sure to wipe off any excess lubricant before re-installing the shifter.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my gear shifter is broken?

If your gear shifter is not working properly, then it may be broken. Common symptoms of a broken gear shifter include difficulty shifting gears, grinding or clunking noises when shifting, and a shifter that is stuck in one gear. If you notice any of these symptoms, then you should take your car to a mechanic to have it inspected.

What causes a gear shifter to break?

The most common cause of a broken gear shifter is wear and tear. Over time, the components of the shifter can become worn and weakened, leading to a broken shifter. In some cases, a broken shifter can also be caused by a faulty cable, linkage, or shift lever.

Can I fix a broken gear shifter myself?

In some cases, it is possible to fix a broken gear shifter yourself. However, it’s important to note that this is a complex repair and should only be attempted by experienced mechanics. If you’re not sure how to repair your gear shifter, then it’s best to take your car to a professional mechanic.

What are the symptoms of a broken gear shifter?

Common symptoms of a broken gear shifter include difficulty shifting gears, grinding or clunking noises when shifting, and a shifter that is stuck in one gear. If you notice any of these symptoms, then you should take your car to a mechanic to have it inspected.

How often should I lubricate my gear shifter?

It’s a good idea to lubricate your gear shifter once every 6 months or so. This will help to reduce friction and make it easier for the shifter to move. To lubricate the shifter, you’ll need to remove it from the car and then apply a lubricant to all of the moving parts. Be sure to wipe off any excess lubricant before re-installing the shifter.

What happens if I don’t fix my broken gear shifter?

If you don’t fix your broken gear shifter, then it can cause serious damage to your car’s transmission. This can lead to expensive repairs and may even require you to replace the transmission. It’s best to have your broken gear shifter fixed as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

Can a broken gear shifter cause my car to not start?

In some cases, a broken gear shifter can cause your car to not start. This is because the shifter is responsible for shifting the transmission into the correct gear, so if it’s not working properly, then the car won’t be able to start. If your car won’t start and you suspect a broken gear shifter, then you should take your car to a mechanic to have it inspected.