What is a Car Gearbox? Its Functions, Causes of Damage & Solutions

The car gearbox is one of the important components that support the performance of the car. However, not many people understand this component. To get to know it better, you need to pay attention to the following review.

What is a Car Gearbox?

The gearbox is a component of the car that is part of the car transmission system. The gearbox itself consists of several gears that are interconnected. These gears function to transmit engine power when the car is moving. This power will then be adjusted according to the transmission usage instructions.

Functions of the Car Gearbox

After you understand what a gearbox means in a car, you need to know its functions. Here are the complete functions.

1. Torque Converter

The main function of the gearbox is to convert torque (rotational power) or torque. This power will then be transmitted to the car's spindle.

2. Provider of Transmission Gear Ratios

The second function is to provide gear ratios when the transmission lever is changed. The gear ratio will be adjusted according to the load of the car's engine.

3. Stabilizing Engine RPM

Next, the gearbox will stabilize the engine RPM so that a reverse rotation movement is created, preventing slipping.

4. Regulator or Controller of Torque Speed and Vehicle Speed

Lastly, the gearbox will adjust the torque speed and vehicle speed according to the transmission lever changes. This way, the car can move backward and forward smoothly.

Read Also: How the Valve Body Gearbox Works in Automatic Cars

Causes of Gearbox Damage and How to Overcome It

Considering the very important function of the gearbox in making the car move, you need to know the signs of damage to the gearbox. Here are the complete signs.

• Transmission fluid leaks, and a burning smell arises.
• Strange noises or sounds occur when the car is started.
• On the dashboard, the engine indicator light will turn on. 
• When shifting the transmission lever, the gear position will be difficult to change.
• The car becomes easily jolted when maneuvering.

Here are some factors that cause gearbox damage in cars that you need to know.

1. Worn Transmission Components

Damage to the transmission components can cause the gearbox condition to be damaged or worn. This damage causes the gears in the gearbox to overlap or shift. This condition can lead to greater friction between the transmission components and the gearbox. As a result, the car's transmission system will experience functional defects. 

To overcome this, you need to pay attention to the condition of each transmission component of the car. If the condition is no longer suitable or has been used for a long time, immediately replace it. Replace these components at a professional workshop to get original and quality service and spare parts.

2. Use of Low-Quality and Different Transmission Components

Using transmission components that do not meet standards or are different can cause damage to the gearbox. This happens due to a lack of compatibility between components, as they are not precise. This causes the gearbox to be unable to transmit engine power evenly. Therefore, you must buy original transmission components. You can visit the nearest Daihatsu dealer to get original transmission components.

3. Excessive Use of the Gearbox

Excessive use of the gearbox can also shorten its lifespan. To address this, you need to be wise in shifting the transmission lever. Additionally, you should also pay attention to the mileage of your car, which has reached the maximum limit for gearbox use. Usually, the gearbox should be replaced when the mileage reaches 100,000 to 250,000. Or at least replace it every 5 years. 

4. Insufficient Transmission Fluid (Oil)

The last cause is due to the car lacking transmission oil. This can happen due to leaks or because the oil has never been changed. To overcome this, you need to check the condition of the transmission oil regularly. Use quality oil to keep the gearbox temperature stable and prevent excessive friction between components. 

Thus, here are some ways you can take to prevent damage to the car's gearbox.