Taking your car off road can be both enjoyable and stressful. The added strain on the components of your car can always weigh on your mind and detract from the breathtaking scenery you encounter along the way. One of the components of your vehicle that will invariable be subjected to the most strain is your transmission and this raises a contentious question: are automatic transmissions better for your 4×4 than a manual transmission? Whilst the answer to this question is primarily a matter of preference, this guide serves to outline several advantages of an automatic transmission in a 4×4 vehicle.

Practicality

The primary cause for the invention of automatic transmissions is convenience. Changing gears constantly is somewhat of an arduous task for many drivers and this is only exacerbated off road. Steep hill climbs are a common obstacle in off road tracks across Australia and gear selection is paramount. Selecting the wrong gear in a manual can result in the engine losing power and even stalling. This can become a safety hazard as a stalled vehicle could very easily roll backwards to devastating effect. Furthermore, accelerating from a standstill on steep hills can place a great deal of strain on a manual transmission, a clutch and a handbrake amongst other things. The effects of this are outlined below.

• Clutch

A clutch is an important part of a manual car that engages the gearbox and the engine. They are, however, prone to overheating and slipping – particularly when under considerable pressure. Pressure of this nature is commonplace off road and inexperienced drivers particularly, have the tendency to ‘ride the clutch’ when taking off. Riding the clutch refers to the acceleration of the car when the clutch is not fully engaged. Doing so generates a great deal of heat and this is only worsened when the car is in 4wd. Clutches are expensive to replace and can be a distinct weakness in a manual 4×4.

• Handbrake

As well as being reliant on the clutch, starting a manual car on a steep, off road hill will place enormous pressure on the handbrake. Handbrake starts are necessary in both automatic and manual cars, however many modern automatic transmissions have various safeguards that assist in hill starts. Manual cars lack these features and as such, the handbrake might have to be engaged to the fullest possible extent under some circumstances and doing so with any frequency can degrade the handbrake cable a great deal. This is generally somewhat of an easy fix, however it can be quite inconvenient.

All of these components are placed under considerably more strain much of the time in a manual, as opposed to an automatic in which the advanced transmission effectively disperses the power in a manner such that minimal pressure is placed one the vehicle. This adds convenience and safety to your off road expeditions.

Technological advancements

Manual gearboxes were a common feature of the early four-wheel drives and the introduction of automatic 4x4s was met with some scrutiny. It is arguable that there was good cause for this, as technology at this time was relatively undeveloped; particularly in comparison with today’s technological features. Old automatic transmissions were often prone to overheating or reducing the engine’s power, as well as increasing fuel consumption and this made many 4×4 enthusiasts wary of them. Fortunately, modern automatic transmissions are quite the opposite. They are durable, and provide the most effective gearshifts so as to optimise the power generated by the engine and provide a smooth and comfortable ride. Additionally, a good modern automatic 4×4 will have a better fuel efficiency than its manual counterpart.

Whether or not you choose an automatic transmission is a matter of preference and driver experience. It is undeniable however, that there are a multitude of advantages to choosing an automatic transmission for your 4×4.

There are so many decisions you need to factor in when you go car shopping. Cost, model, size, colour, safety and optional extras all need to be considered. With such a massive variety in cars on the market today, you can really find yourself going around in circles trying to find the right car to fit your budget!

The best way to avoid that (at least a little bit!) is to compare the options for auto vs manual cars before you hit the car yards. This way, you will have a better understanding of what you want. There’s nothing worse than finding yourself surrounded by a whole heap of cars, a pushy salesperson and no idea where to start.

Knowing what transmission type you are after will immediately cancel certain cars out and help you find the right car, quicker.

Here are the questions you need to ask yourself before you decide whether an automatic or manual transmission type is for you:

1. Where will I be driving the car?

If you are a city driver or navigate steep hills on a daily basis, then a manual might have you feeling frustrated at the constant need to change gears and the jilting of the car every time you do so. If you’re mostly driving highway and around suburbs, than a manual is a perfectly viable option.

2. How much do I want to spend?

Manuals are cheaper. It’s as simple as that. On average, a manual transmission can cost up to $1000 less than its automatic counterpart. It can be cheaper in the long run too. Manuals are usually more fuel-economical than automatics. Manuals also are less complex and have less mechanical issues than an automatic. However, the automatic car is easier to drive and can be more manageable in traffic.

3. Who is going to be driving the car?

If you’re a lover of being in control when you drive, then a manual is for you. Don’t forget to consider who else might be driving it, though. If they aren’t skilled at driving a manual, they may end up (embarrassingly) stalling while driving or causing an accident. Consider who will be driving your car and how often before you make the choice.

4. Is my car at risk of being stolen?

If you need to park your car where crime rates are high, you should consider a manual. Surprising to some, a manual transmission can be a deterrent to thieves as there is an increasing number of people who aren’t learning to drive on manual cars or obtaining a manual licence.

It’s a big decision, and there are advantages to both an automatic and manual car. In the end, it depends on your individual situation and how comfortable you are driving a manual as opposed to an automatic.

Auto vs manual—the choice is yours! Whether your next car is an automatic or manual, Gearbox and Diff Shop is Brisbane’s leading transmission specialist . We are here to service and maintain your transmissions to keep them top notch! Call us or come see us today.

When was the last time you had your power steering system checked out? Chances are it hasn’t been looked at for a while. It’s vital that you have this important aspect of your car inspected by the professionals on a regular basis.

What is the power steering system

The power steering system of your car is one of the most important parts of your car. The power steering system is a hydraulic system that includes a variety of components including power steering fluid, belts, pumps and steering gears. Its purpose is to assist the car’s wheels in turning seamlessly whilst reducing the steering effort on the car. Despite being such a complex system, it is consistently one of the most overlooked items when it comes to maintenance.

Why do they fail?

Why does the power steering system fail? There are a variety of reasons, but the main reasons is due to low fluid levels in the car. Low fluids can lead to fluid becoming contaminated. This in turn can lead to wear, and even component failure, in your car. Another reason the power steering system can fail is due to the hydraulic components being in poor condition, for example the drive belt slipping or worn hoses leaking fluid.

How do I know if something is wrong with the power steering system?

There are several ways to tell if your power steering system has problems. These include:
• finding oily marks underneath the vehicle—this is a sign of leaking hydraulic fluid
• steering wheel too easy/harder to turn
• hearing strange noises coming from your car—this is caused by a lack of fluid in the car.
Of course, by being proactive about your power steering maintenance, you’ll ensure that any problems are corrected before they cause you driving hassles. A regular power steering service may save you a lot of money and heartache!

When should I have it checked and by whom?

It is vital that you have your vehicle checked every 20 000 kilometres, or 12 months, by a trained mechanic. Here at Gearbox and Diff, we are more than happy to conduct your power steering maintenance: inspecting for specific troubles or just for a check-up. This includes checking the fluid level and installing new components if any are broken or damaged.
For more information about power steering maintenance and how it will benefit your car, contact us here

Thinking about replacing some of the damaged parts in your car? Chances are you have looked into potentially buying second hand car parts to replace them. However, there are some important things you must consider before making use of the second hand market. It can be a great money saver, but it does come with a few risks.

Second hand parts are not always a bargain

The second hand market is competitive, so it pays to shop around when you’re looking for particular parts. If the parts you need are rare, they may well be as expensive as replacing with something new. What’s more, although second hand parts may be cheaper to buy, they can still be expensive to fit. And if the part happens to be faulty in any way, you risk damaging your car – with no warranties to fall back on.

Parts you should always buy new

No matter what, there are some parts of a car that you should never buy second hand. Essentially, any part, which is critical to the operation of the car, is best bought new for safety reasons.

These parts include:

• Electrical components – Many electrical parts are simply not made to be transferred from car to car. These are crucial to the running of the modern vehicle, so don’t take a risk of dodgy inferior options.

• Cooling system components – This includes air conditioning components. If these parts get critically damaged, you potentially will have to get the whole system replaced.

• Steering and suspension components – If you buy these parts second hand, you’re taking a serious risk. If any of these parts fail, you could have a deadly accident.

Second hand parts are risky

Like any second hand purchases, buying car parts is a risk to both you and your wallet. Quite simply – they don’t come with any guarantees, or warranty. This means that if your part breaks after a week, you won’t get your money back for it. Is this a risk you’re willing to take with your money and your car?

The verdict

Although second hand car parts are cheap, there are serious ramifications for you if you buy dodgy parts. From loss of money to potential damage to your car or even your life, second hand parts often aren’t worth the risk. If you’re someone who doesn’t want to waste money (or your car), check out the brand new car parts available at Gearbox and Diff . From transmissions to differentials to clutches , we have all the latest parts needed to fix your car at competitive prices, without the risk.
Need more information about second hand car parts? Contact the team at Gearbox and Diff today to get the best deals!

If you’ve noticed your clutch has been slipping, making noises or sticking, chances are you are about to experience a serious clutch issue. Clutch problems can lead to expensive issues if not fixed – it’s best to get it sorted as soon as possible.

Clutch Slipping

Clutch slipping occurs when there is a loss of friction between the two surfaces of the clutch. This in turn prevents optimum transfer of power from the motor to the drive train.

The loss of friction associated with clutch slipping usually occurs when the clutch plate in the car becomes worn. This is natural in older cars. However, if your car is still relatively new, loss of friction may be due to a number of factors such as the driver “riding the clutch” or issues with oil contamination.

Not sure if your clutch is slipping? Top symptoms of clutch slipping include a burning smell, over revving and loss of pressure and power in your car. If your car starts displaying any of these symptoms, it is vital you get your clutch adjusted immediately.

Along with clutch slipping, there are other problems that your car’s clutch can encounter in its lifetime. These include:

Clutch Dragging

On the opposite spectrum of clutch slipping is clutch dragging. If your clutch is not fully disengaging when you change gear or there is resistance when you shift gears, you may find that your clutch is dragging. This can be caused by a variety of problems, including low lubricant levels and a clutch linkage, which isn’t properly adjusted.

Clutch Shuttering

If you get a jerky feeling when you change gears or you hear a banging noise from your clutch, chances are your clutch is shuttering. This occurs when the two surfaces of the clutch fail to clamp properly. This is also caused by a worn out clutch plate.

Sticking Clutch

A sticking clutch occurs when the two surfaces of the clutch fail to separate at all, meaning there is no release. You’ll know if your car has a sticking clutch when the clutch petal becomes harder to press.

If you notice any of these problems in your car’s clutch, it’s of the utmost importance you take your car to a clutch specialist. At Gearbox and Diff Shop Automatics, we take pride in our 30 years of experience with all sorts of clutch problems. Visit us the moment you notice an issue with your clutch .

Discover more information or make an inquiry here .

What is a diff and is mine playing up? Your diff is an important part of your car’s control system and is often found within your gearbox. It is widely known as a diff, but it is also known as a differential unit and it can be hard for you to determine if yours is playing up – especially if you’re not a “car person”.

What is a differential unit?

A differential unit can be found in the middle of both of your car’s axles. In front wheel drives, it is often found in the same casing with the gearbox. The diff plays three important roles in the working of your car:

1. The diff connects power from your car’s engine to the driving wheels, allowing the car to move.

2. It is the last gear reduction, which occurs in your vehicle.

3. The diff splits power between your wheels, allowing one wheel to rotate faster than the other. This allows the car to make turns more effectively.

Without the differential unit, your car would be much harder to control. That’s why it is of the utmost importance that it is kept in good condition.

What are the signs my diff needs works?

If you’re concerned that your diff may need some work, here are some warning signs that you should look out for:

1. Loud whining sounds during acceleration

2. Whirring noises happening during deceleration

3. Clunking noises every couple of metres

4. Clunking noises when shifting from drive to reverse

These signs indicate you may have worn, broken or misaligned pinion gears or bearings. These are important parts of the diff and need to be checked immediately.

Where should I go?

If your car shows any of these signs, don’t just take it to any car repair shop. You need to take it to a trusted diff specialist with the expertise and experience to inspect and repair your diff. At Gearbox and Diff Shop Automatics, we can offer you the best service you need for your car’s diff.

Whether it is a 2WD or a 4WD, we have the skill and knowledge needed to diagnose and fix any sort of diff unit. When it comes to differential units, we are experts in our field and guarantee to get it done right.

To book an appointment with us today, give us a call now.

Car safety does not just mean keeping your car serviced and free of mechanical faults. Any person who drives a car can get into an accident, or come across another car that has been in an accident. Having the right safety gear in your car at all times can help you respond quickly and be prepared if an unfortunate event occurs.

Pen and paper

This is such a simple idea, but it is highly important. If you have an accident with another car, you will need to exchange personal details. You may also need to draw a map so your insurance provider or the police have the exact details of the accident. Avoid relying on your memory, and carry a substantial amount of pen and paper in your car.

Mobile phone

While most people carry a mobile phone with them at all times, a quick trip to the shops might mean the phone is left at home. Take a phone with you, even on a short journey. You can use it to make emergency phone calls, take photographs of the accident scene and use maps to find local services that you may need after an accident.

Fire extinguisher

Put that fire out yourself, before your entire car is set alight. An engine can easily catch on fire and you will need to think fast and be prepared. Some fire extinguishers are made specifically for cars, and they are the right size to carry around with you. If possible, educate yourself on how to use one properly, so you are prepared in advance for an emergency that requires you to use it.

First aid kit

While you are learning about fire safety, gain some first aid skills too. These can be required when you spend time in the outdoors, not just when you have an accident in your car. First aid kits can be made especially for travelling, and should be stocked up with new items when they are used up or exceed the use-by date.

Fresh water

Long trips, especially in remote areas will require you to carry fresh water. You never know how long you will be stranded beside the road in the dust and the heat. A plentiful supply of fresh water will be perfect for drinking, but also for washing injuries and placing in your car if it needs it.

For advice, parts and service contact Gearbox and Diff today.

Proper car maintenance is one of the most important responsibilities for car owners. Maintaining the upkeep of your vehicle’s parts ensures the safety of yourself and your passengers; failure to do so can lead to expensive repairs or damage so extensive that it can’t be repaired.

But even the most dedicated car owner can miss important maintenance areas. When caring for your car, don’t forget the following areas.

Tyres

Keeping up with your tyre maintenance can prevent costly repairs and damage to your car down the track – neglecting to do so can be dangerous, resulting in worn out tread and even blow outs.

All car owners should check their tyre pressure on a regular basis. Too much or too little can be equally hazardous so, just like Goldilocks, you want it to be just right. Do it yourself at your local petrol station – check your owner’s manual or the inside of the driver’s door for the right inflation pressure for your model – or have your mechanic do it at your next service. An extra bonus of having correctly inflated tyres is the reduction on fuel consumption.

Another commonly neglected maintenance job is having your tyres rotated. This prevents your tread from wearing down which can cause a flat tyre or even an accident.

And don’t forget your spare tyre! Your spare is your emergency backup so it should be in just as good condition as the rest of your tyres. A defective spare tyre can leave you stranded.

Fluids

Topping up your fluids is a quick, inexpensive task that can pay enormous dividends in the long run.

Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding oil changes, as they are important to the maintenance schedule of your car. You can, of course, check your oil more often if you like. Long term neglect of oil changes can mean serious damage – and thousands of dollars in repair bills – to your car’s engine.

Equally important is your brake fluid. Your brakes stop your car so any damage to this component can have serious – even deadly – consequences. The hydraulic lines that operate your brakes are vulnerable to rust so it’s very important to keep an eye on your brakes.

Windscreen wiper fluids are another important but often overlooked part of car maintenance. Dirt, pollution and other airborne contaminants can build upon your windscreen, reducing your visibility. Windscreen fluid keeps your windscreen clean and safe.

Transmission

The transmission is one of the most complex parts of your car and there are many components that can cause problems. These problems can spread to the engine and brakes, ultimately leaving your car undriveable. Stay on top of your transmission maintenance with regular servicing and preventative repairs, and always see a mechanic if you experience any of the following:

• Reduced response
• Grinding noises when changing gears
• Leaking fluids
• Refusal to go into gear
• Gear slippage

Brisbane Gearbox and Diff Shop can help you keep your car in optimum condition. Make an appointment today by calling our Woolloongabba service centre on (07) 3391 8377 or our Slacks Creek office on (07) 3808 4055.

After periods of wear and tear a clutch will suffer damage and it will eventually need to be repaired or replaced. This will happen in all cars, but if you can spot problem signs with the clutch early, you can save yourself a lot of money. There is also the added bonus of not breaking down unexpectedly, so take notice of your clutch’s health and act smart before this happens.

1: Clutch slipping

A clutch that slips in a new car will most likely have suffered damage because of the driver. Habits like riding the clutch on hills can cause it to wear out quickly, so it will be wise for the driver to adjust the way they drive. In older cars the clutch will start to slip eventually and you should have this checked out as soon as possible. Slipping is normal however,  when towing heavy loads, and it should return to normal when the extra load is removed.

2: Clutch sticking

In addition to slipping, clutches can also become sticky. This can be a problem and is a sign to watch out for when caring for your clutch’s health. It could mean that the clutch cable needs replacing, the flywheel is damaged or there are oil problems with the clutch linings.

3: Unexpected noises

Become familiar with the noises that your car makes because a change in them could mean problems. If your car starts to make strange sounds when you press the clutch it might be time to put your car in for a service or have the clutch checked out by a professional.

4: Needing to push the clutch further

A sudden need to push your clutch flat to the floor could be a sign of trouble. There may be problems with the hydraulics and or clutch cabling. Get this checked out early, as you may be able to repair the damage rather than needing to replace the entire clutch system at a later date.

5: Your car drives differently

Sometimes cars just feel differently to drive. It may struggle when changing gears or lacks its usual level of performance. You may not be able to pinpoint what the actual problem is, but if you have been driving your car for a while you as the driver will most likely know if a component such as the clutch is starting to wear out. Follow your instincts and have it checked.

Gearbox and Diff can check, repair and replace clutches with superior parts and workmanship. Talk to us today on 3391 8377 (Woolloongabba) or 3808 4055 (Slacks Creek).

Our lives are marked by big ticket milestones. Whitegoods, electronics, holidays and cars all require saving, consideration and research. But what if you’re buying your new vehicle second hand? The pre-loved car is a quirky beast; it’s already seen a few kilometres and accumulated some memories with its old owner. The guys are the Gearbox and Diff Shop have compiled a checklist of things to look out for when buying a second hand car – don’t inherit somebody else’s on-road woes.

Value For Money

So how do you know your chosen one is value embodied? Research. Before you leave your home, contact sellers or car yards and start test driving a few contenders, get to know your market. Find out how much your shortlist is selling for, accounting for condition, history and kilometres; explore competing models or badges, assessing your needs and desires; decide on a budget and stick to it. If you’re contacting second hand car yards, run a reputation check on your favourite search engine first, taking time to read reviews.

The Books

Service books and other log books should be available to any and all prospective buyers, whether you’re purchasing through a private advertiser or doing a deal with a local car yard. This history allows you to track the history of the vehicle, noting any work completed, issues noted and repaired damage.

Damage & Quirk Report

All cars have quirks – one may have a tendency to stall in the rain or cold weather, another may make a bit of racket upon start up or suffer from a delayed gear change (one to watch for in autos). Getting the bare-faced truth from a seller before purchase is essential – don’t buy sign unseen or untested. Similarly, make sure the your soon-to-be set of wheels is in the green and not an old write-off; hail damage and accidents can have long lasting effects beyond the surface aesthetic of a car.

Kilometres

Check the odometer number against the advertisement, adjusting for any very recent use – the seller may still be driving the car. High kilometre cars can be perceived in two ways; reliable or on their last legs. To determine which applies to your vehicle, consider the overall condition of the car – has it been well taken care of? Does it present well, with a clear service history? If you can answer yes and yes, the car most likely falls into the reliable camp. Last leg contenders are often old 80s, early 90s models – they’ve seen better days, they’ve lasted to the distance but rust is an inevitability in old cars.

Always grab original versions of everything during the paperwork phase, including registration. Never accept photocopies. If you’re not comfortable with a sale, always remember, you can walk away!