Slight Crunch Into Second Gear

real · 18 Dec 2011 at 09:55

Good morning,

Car: VW Golf GTI MkV manual

I have recently noticed a very slight crunch whilst shifting up into second gear. It only happens on cold starts and the first time I shift into second.

The crunch is barely audible but I can feel it through the gear stick

Should I be concerned and could this be a sign of an impending failure?

Thanks

mattyg · 18 Dec 2011 at 09:59

Doubt its impending failure but it may be worn synchromesh try an gearbox oil change that may help

Fuzz · 18 Dec 2011 at 10:09

First stop is definitely a change of oil using a quality brand of the correct type. If that doesn't help it, it indeed sounds like a worn synchro. It's not going to empty itself onto the road one day so don't worry about that side of things.

Dogbreath · 18 Dec 2011 at 10:19

As said the synchromesh is probably getting a bit tired, 2nd gear tends to get a hammering more than the others so is the first to show signs of wear on most cars. However, if your clutch is getting toward the end of it's life it won't be helping as they can drag a bit. How many miles does the car have on it?

real · 18 Dec 2011 at 13:19

The mileage is around 85k.

real · 18 Dec 2011 at 13:39

The vehicle had a major service from VW in August which should include a check of the gearbox oil and no issues were mentioned.

Do you still think it is worth changing and is it an easy DIY job?

4T5 · 18 Dec 2011 at 13:46

Next time try pumping your clutch a few times Before selecting 2nd, If it doesn't grind after the pump it's your clutch on it's way out or maybe the slave cylinder (check for any leakage) If it still grinds it'll be your box but will still last 20k or so if you aren't caning it.

real · 18 Dec 2011 at 23:09

Thanks, I'll test the clutch as suggested and look into changing the gearbox oil.

Leeum · 19 Dec 2011 at 00:37

The main dealer probably just checked the gearbox oil level. As said above, I would start by getting the box oil changed for some OEM/ good quality stuff, then take it from there.

Matt82 · 19 Dec 2011 at 06:00

real said:
The vehicle had a major service from VW in August which should include a check of the gearbox oil and no issues were mentioned.

Do you still think it is worth changing and is it an easy DIY job?

Gear oil is now part of the service schedule? It never has been historically

real · 19 Dec 2011 at 12:52

A check of the level should be included but admittedly that is not going to show whether it needs changing.

Mud · 19 Dec 2011 at 14:12

Matt82 said:
Gear oil is now part of the service schedule? It never has been historically

If you go by Haynes it is scheduled...but then my favourite independent always says don't bother.