6MT problems

[lefeu]

I've got an '03 coupe that I bought used. It had about 24k miles on it when I bought it, and now has about 28k. A couple of months ago, I noticed it grinding briefly when I shifted into 3rd gear. Although I've been driving manual trx cars for most of 20+ years without any problems (never even had to replace a clutch), my first reaction it was me doing it. But, over the next few weeks, in happened a few times, always while shifting into 3rd. I began to suspect the synchro, and brought it to the dealer (obviously still under warranty.)The dealer said it was the clutch and that wasn't under warrentee so it would cost $2400+ to fix. I still say its the synchro, because it happens exclusively going into 3rd. Another trans guy I took it to says Infiniti has a lock on all parts, and although he agrees its probably the synchro, he won't help me fight the dealer.Any similar stories or suggestions?LAF

[joe603]

If you have an extended service warranty, it should be covered. I know this is an issue with older model transmissions, and the fix is to replace with a new one. I'm not sure if you can get the parts...maybe do some searching online. I say, live with it until you cant shift...you could get another 20k out of it.

InfinitiTech, what do you think?

[cobrajet]

If it's the 3rd gear synchro, then a fluid change may be worthwhile with your mileage. I've had synchro problems in the past with other transmissions 'heal' themselves after a few 100-1000 miles on new fluid. Additives with a fluid change could help but I'm not familiar with the 6MT's transmission to confirm it. In the meantime, learn to match the rpms closely so the synchro doesn't have to work so hard. Old school double clutching could delay the inevitable, too.
Modified by cobrajet at 12:37 AM 1/16/2007

[infinititech1]

sounds like a syncro...i've done a few transmission's for this problem...lol its a really easy way to get a new transmission if you are still under warranty.

[ShoeMarshall]

I had a similar problem with 5th in my 2004 Sedan (24K miles at the time). I took it to the dealership and they put in a shiny new transmission for me. I did have to pay for a new clutch ($500) but they didn't charge me labor. Now, I basically have a new car.

[33infinity33]

it's the synchros. My 'O3 coupe is on it's third trans in 25k mi. The first one started making noise shifting into 3rd at 6k mi. The second one (another '03 trans) did it in 3rd and 5th at 19k mi. I am now on the third trans (this time a '06 unit) and i think it will be okay. Both times they replaced the clutch too under warantee. If you are out of warantee your f'd.

[87ninefiveone]

Don't G's have a "window" on the bell housing to check the clutch lining like most other cars, that would be the real quick way to check if the clutch is toast or not. That said, I don't believe for a second that its a clutch problem.

I'd check the clutch lining out myself and then go back to the dealer armed with that info. The cars covered up to 4 years 50,000 miles, fight it all the way.

[kmech_7]

all the '03s are covered from the factory with a 7y 70,000 mile warrenty. trust me i know. im having a hell of a time gettin my new transmission from infiniti. im on month #2 without my car.