I am sure this has been discussed before, but I could not come up with a good search phrase to filter the results well enough.

Anyways, I have a 04 MC with the 5spd and since new (10,031 miles ago) the transmission has always had issues getting into reverse. It simply will not go in unless I put it in 2nd and then in reverse. Once I put it into second and swing over to reverse , I get a very loud crack/grinding noise.


Any solutions answers without a run to the dealer?

 

I would run to the dealer!

 

See if double clutching from 1st to R lessen the grinding. I have the same
issue (characteristic) with my WRX. It will almost always not go into R at
a stand still and would grind if I do a 3 point turn....but the double
clutching helps quite a bit.

 

Simply solved by putting it back in to neutral and pushing in the clutch again. I believe this happens because reverse is a non-synchronous gear...as well as first. :smile:

I hope that helps.



-Cyn

 

I have tried double clutching to no avail. BTW, the only gear that will work to get reverse to engage is second, which is what bothers me.

 

I'd say a trip to your dealer is in order. That doesn't sound normal.

Best of luck! :smile:

-Cyn

 

My 5-speed always goes into reverse OK by doing as you described. I think that's just the way it is.

R.E.

 

Cynamini is all over this. Reverse is not a synchronized gear and the gears must be perfectly aligned for them to mesh. When you pull it out of second you are actually leaving the gear spinning a little bit. This is not really healthy. Put it back in neutral, let the clutch out, then put the clutch back in and WAIT for the gear to come to a stop. If it doesn't go in reverse, repeat. If it just won't go in reverse at all using this method, see your dealer.

Since it sounds like you've been doing this for awhile, it would be a good idea to drain the transmission lube and make sure that there is a magnetic drain plug. If not, get one, it will extend the life of your transmission by capturing the metallic particles that are being put in the transmission. Also examine the drained lube for a brass color. If so this indicates that you are grinding the synchroizers.

Good luck,

 

Go see your dealer. I had the same problem with mine. They replaced the tranny. No more problems. Good luck

 

I know that reverse is not synchronized, but double clutching does not let me get into gear at all. I'm going to the dealer next week for the first service, I'll have them look at that as well.