Common Problem Causes: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

NEUTRAL GEAR RATTLE: Neutral gear rattle is not an indication of an internal transaxle fault. Neutral gear rattle is caused by the clutch disc springs loading and unloading under the weight of the geartrain in the transaxle. Usually, after releasing the clutch with the engine at idle, the geartrain will rotate quietly. When the engine operating system makes an idle alteration the transaxle geartrain will bounce causing the clutch springs to compress. Afterward, the spring release flinging the geartrain faster then the engine idle. When the engine idle catches up with the geartrain and the spring compress and the process repeats over and over causing the geartrain to rattle. Neutral gear rattle is most audible in enclosed areas, such as a garage or between other parked vehicles.

PRE-DIAGNOSTIC INSPECTION:

Verify that the transaxle fluid level is at the proper cold fill level.
Inspect the exterior of the transaxle for evidence of fluid leaks.
Inspect the exterior of the transaxle for mechanical issues, such as improper shift cable routing or loose mounting bolts.

NOTE:

If a fluid with anti-friction additive is used in a C-365 transaxle the synchronizers will fail, requiring synchronizer replacement.

SYMPTOM	POSSIBLE CAUSE	REPAIR
Neutral gear rattle.	Weak clutch disc springs.	No trans repair required. If rattle is excessive when vehicle is in an open area replace the clutch disc.
Tip in tip out clunk. No gear whine.	Excessively strong clutch disc springs. Loose front hub nuts	If the condition is excessive replace the clutch disc. Replace hub nut and tighten to proper torque specifications. Refer to FRONT, SPECIFICATIONS .
Bearing whine.	Low fluid level. Improper fluid. Bearings in transaxle assembled to tight.	Repair cause of fluid loss and fill transaxle to cold fill level. If doubt exists, replace the transaxle fluid. Refer to CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED FLUIDS, DESCRIPTION . Verify the turning torque of transaxle bearings with NEW bearings installed.
Growl in neutral.	Low fluid level. Improper fluid. Bearings in transaxle assembled to loose.	Repair cause of fluid loss and fill transaxle to cold fill level. If doubt exists, replace the transaxle fluid. Refer to CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED FLUIDS, DESCRIPTION . Verify the turning torque of transaxle bearings with NEW bearings installed.
Gear noise when driving in any gear range	Low fluid level. Improper fluid. Bearings in transaxle assembled to loose.	Repair cause of fluid loss and fill transaxle to cold fill level. If doubt exists, replace the transaxle fluid. Refer to CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED FLUIDS, DESCRIPTION . Verify the turning torque of transaxle bearings with NEW bearings installed.
Gear clash going into 1st or reverse from neutral with clutch depressed for 3+ seconds.	Improper fluid or additives in fluid. Faulty synchronizers.	If doubt exists, replace the transaxle fluid. Refer to CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED FLUIDS, DESCRIPTION . Disassemble transaxle to inspect. Replace synchronizers.
Fluid expelled from vent.	Transaxle is overfilled.	Adjust transaxle cold fill level.