How to Troubleshoot a Jeep Wrangler Manual Transmission

by Katebo
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old jeep on a hill image by Roman Barelko from Fotolia.com

The Jeep Wrangler is a compact and powerful automotive legend. While it is renowned for its toughness and versatility, it can encounter problems just like any other vehicle. If your Jeep Wrangler is refusing to start or behaving erratically when you try to shift gears, you can troubleshoot its transmission on your own. You will not need any tools for this procedure, and it requires no special training. You should be able to complete troubleshooting the transmission of your Jeep Wrangler within an hour.

Step 1

Check the level of transmission fluid in your Wrangler if you find it difficult or impossible to shift gears. A low level of transmission fluid can cause your transmission to overheat and burn up. The dipstick is located on the side of the transmission, beneath the vehicle. Fill the transmission to the proper level with gear oil.

Step 2

Ask a mechanic to inspect your Wrangler's clutch if your transmission seems to be behaving erratically, you smell something burning or the engine's rpm is moving inconsistently while you drive. After 50- to 60,000 miles, or after getting too hot repeatedly, the surface of your clutch discs may be glazed, requiring replacement.

Step 3

Check your Wrangler's shifting linkage if your transmission has the proper level of fluid but is giving you problems when you try to shift gears. A misaligned or damaged shift linkage may be preventing your vehicle from shifting properly. You can find the shift linkage near the top of your Wrangler's transmission on the driver's side. Watch the linkage closely while a friend shifts the gears of your Wrangler to make sure it is functioning properly. It may only need a small adjustment.

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