Auto Gearbox Query

Hi

I think I already know the answer to this query but am just checking that I'm right.

I have a 1996 P38 HSE Automatic. When pulling away, usually at speed up an incline, the message on the dashboard comes up stating 'Gearbox Overheating' - 'Refer to Handbook'. I have checked in the handbook and all it says is, 'turn the ignition off and let the gearbox cool down'. Not very helpful in my opinion

My theory is that I need to top up or change the gearbox oil because it possibly hasn't been done for a while, I only purchased the vehicle about 5wks ago so don't know the service history. Could this be the cause and is it a small job that I, being a female, can undertake myself?

Sue1962 said:

Hi

I think I already know the answer to this query but am just checking that I'm right.

I have a 1996 P38 HSE Automatic. When pulling away, usually at speed up an incline, the message on the dashboard comes up stating 'Gearbox Overheating' - 'Refer to Handbook'. I have checked in the handbook and all it says is, 'turn the ignition off and let the gearbox cool down'. Not very helpful in my opinion

My theory is that I need to top up or change the gearbox oil because it possibly hasn't been done for a while, I only purchased the vehicle about 5wks ago so don't know the service history. Could this be the cause and is it a small job that I, being a female, can undertake myself?

Click to expand...

You can certainly check the gearbox oil level yourself although it's not quite as simple as you might think.

With the engine cold, and with the car parked on level ground, open the bonnet and start the engine.

With the brakes on, move the gear selector through each of the gears to 1 and then back to Park.

Now check the oil level using the dipstick nearest to the bulkhead/windscreen (ie not the engine one).

It needs 0.25 litres of transmission oil to raise the level from the bottom notch to the top one - DONT overfill it.

Guy

Forgot to mention that you top it up through the dipstick tube.

Sue1962 said:

Hi

I think I already know the answer to this query but am just checking that I'm right.

I have a 1996 P38 HSE Automatic. When pulling away, usually at speed up an incline, the message on the dashboard comes up stating 'Gearbox Overheating' - 'Refer to Handbook'. I have checked in the handbook and all it says is, 'turn the ignition off and let the gearbox cool down'. Not very helpful in my opinion

My theory is that I need to top up or change the gearbox oil because it possibly hasn't been done for a while, I only purchased the vehicle about 5wks ago so don't know the service history. Could this be the cause and is it a small job that I, being a female, can undertake myself?

Click to expand...

Download a copy of RAVE (workshop manual) and follow the instructions for checking and topping up/changing gearbox fluid. Or for a quick check. With gearbox oil cold start engine and allow to idle. Move gear lever through gate several times and place in park. Remove dipstick wipe clean, replace fully and remove to check oil level. It should be between the two marks on the stick, if not top up slowly, small amounts, through dipstick hole, keep cleaning stick and dipping and filling slowly until oil level is correct. Don't over fill.

Thanks guys will give it a check in a while xx