Auto Care: How to Avoid Problems With Your Gearbox
Guest Post
Have you been cruising downtown in the evening driving your new “Tokunbo” from Cotonou, and suddenly your car’s automatic transmission stops changing gear? Hmmm. Cold sweat rolls down your spine, you suddenly remember your ATM card nestled snugly in the pocket of your CK jeans at home, you quickly take stock of your resources and discover that you have approximately N4,700 (KFC is out for sure).
Local Expert
As you limp into your local car workshop where you meet the head mechanic aptly given an unforgettable name (e.g. Nojim) and after going through a lengthy explanation he tells you with certainty na jiabox (gearbox). I do not think anyone would want to be in that position; so how do you avoid that dastardly situation?
Gearbox Maintenance
Your car should go to a professional pit where the viscosity of your oil should be checked at least every 2 months in pre-owned cars or cars over 5 years old. Vehicles from colder climes tend to have higher viscosity which gets lighter in our tropical weather (not good for the gearbox). Dextron II by Oando is a good idea of an Automatic Transmission Fluid with viscosity that works well in Nigeria.
Troubleshooting
Having spent a pile on a vehicle, you have to learn how to establish its faults. If your gearbox is acting strangely go for proper digital diagnostics because it can be anything from a sensor to a broken cog. Keep that in mind next time ‘Nuhu’ tells you “Oga na jiabox.”
About the Author: Tony has over 20 years’ experience in the evolution/implementation of cutting edge technology and how it can be used to enhance one’s day to day life, and is an avid automobile enthusiast and home Audio/Video Aficionado. His vast experience has crystallized into his current occupation of remodeling homes. Tony currently runs a blog under the moniker ‘tonyfixitt’ where he regularly contributes and proffers ingenious solutions for the day to day challenges on automobile, audio/video systems and home designs in our daily lives. You can reach him on; Gmail: tonyfixitt@gmail.com Facebook: tonyfixitt Twitter: tonyfixitt@twitter.com
