Having trouble changing gears in your Iveco Daily? What should you do?

If changing gears in your Iveco Daily is proving difficult, it is essential to address the issue promptly. 

Be careful not to drive an Iveco with this gearbox problem for too long, as you risk causing serious damage. There can be various reasons for gear-changing difficulties. But whatever the cause, the repairs needed on your Iveco Daily aren’t very complicated if you’re a bit of a mechanic.

What causes gear-changing difficulties on an Iveco Daily?

If you’re having trouble, or even finding it impossible, to change gears; if your engine is making a deafening humming noise and you hear creaking sounds after every gear change; and if you’re frequently losing oil, your transmission is in poor condition and may have a lasting impact on your gear changes. This problem can have various causes. Here are a few checks that may prove useful:

• The oil

The oil lubricates the gear bearings. It protects them from friction and overheating. Consequently, the very first thing to do, and also the simplest, is to check whether the oil level is sufficient.
Drivers often tend to forget this basic check.
Once you’ve checked the oil level, make sure the oil is clean. Poor-quality oil can also cause gearbox problems. If this is the case, there’s only one thing to do: change the oil!

• The linkage

It connects the gear lever to the gearbox. The linkage transmits the driver’s movements from the gear lever to the gearbox. So if the gears jump when you shift them, the problem may be linked to an issue with the linkage. 

• The synchroniser

The synchroniser acts as a link. As its name suggests, it synchronises the rotational speed of all the gears so that they can turn at the same speed. Do you hear creaking noises from the engine when you change gears? It’s probably down to the synchroniser.

• The clutch

Start by simply checking the clutch pedal. Is it stuck? Your floor mat or loose gravel may be preventing the engine from engaging properly.  

On the other hand, have you noticed that the clutch pedal is too soft or too stiff to press? This could be a problem with the hydraulic system. The wear and tear on your clutch disc may also be causing this issue.

What repairs should I carry out if changing gears is difficult on my Iveco?

As you’ve realised, many faulty parts can cause gear-changing difficulties. But let’s look at the most common repairs needed for your vehicle.

• The clutch kit

The clutch kit comprises a disc, a flywheel and a release bearing. This assembly is located between the engine and the gearbox. Constant disengagement causes the clutch disc to wear, and the diaphragm provides less pressure to maintain the connection between the flywheel and the disc. Using a worn kit risks making gear changes difficult, but more importantly, it can damage the gearbox and the entire clutch system.
The Iveco clutch kit should be replaced approximately every 150,000 kilometres, depending on the driving conditions and driving style. Signs of wear include a stiff pedal or a slipping sensation when engaging the clutch, as well as a smell of burnt oil. The kit must then be replaced, comprising the disc, the pressure plate and the release bearing. 

• Replacing the gearbox

The gearbox is a complex component. It is not easy to replace it yourself if you are not a mechanical expert. In this case, you can call in a mechanic and provide them with your own spare parts to keep costs down and speed up the process. Specialist online retailers often stock Iveco Daily-compatible gearboxes. Ask the parts sales staff for advice; they will be able to guide you.

What maintenance should I carry out on my Iveco Daily to ensure the gearbox runs smoothly? `

To avoid difficult gear changes on your Iveco Daily, a few precautions are necessary. When changing gears, make sure you press the clutch pedal firmly. Press it down decisively and clearly. Also ensure you drive smoothly and gently.

Furthermore, your gearbox requires high-quality oil. With use and friction, this oil can become contaminated. And as it does not need to be changed as often as your engine oil, please refer to the service booklet for advice on the frequency of gearbox oil changes

As well as being uncomfortable to drive, difficult gear changes in your Iveco may indicate more complex underlying issues. This is why it is essential to have your vehicle repaired promptly if you notice this problem. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions regarding the compatibility of spare parts for your Daily