My 04 2.5RS does not like to go into 1st gear or reverse sometimes. The 1st gear problem happens all the time when i am rolling to a stop and going about 10-15 mph. It will give me more resistance the faster i am going, and vice versa, until i get down to 5mph where there is almost no resistance. (the clutch is to the floor)

 

Reverse gives my problems sporratically. Usually when the car is cold and i haven't driven it yet. It just will not go in no matter how hard i force it.

 

Is there a safety device on 1st gear? Anybody had these problems before?

 

Any input is greatly appreciatted!

 

Thanks,

Tim

A search on this Board would have given you this result:

http://usmb.ultimatesubaru.org/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=9498&highlight=first+1st+gear

First gear is normal; this prevents you from over-revving the engine going into first. If you need the extra power (going around corners, etc) double-clutch to get into first.

 

As for the reverse gear problem, if you have trouble, try rolling (clutch in and no brake) before you shift, or hold the shifter against the Reverse position until you feel resistance, let the clutch up a little bit at a time; and slide into reverse.

As has been said.. with first, its like that for a reason. With reverse, grinding or clunking is common on a lot of cars.. even brand new ones.. A habit I picked up from one of my Saab owners manuals was to put it in second then put it in reverse.. works every time with every car I have had since that first saab 10 years ago.

Well...with 160+horsepower, there's really no reason to downshift to first unless you're at a dead stop. But if you wanted to, double-clutching will work. It just kills your gas mileage.

Originally posted by WagonsOnly

It just kills your gas mileage.

And your gearbox.

Sounds normal to me. I usually don't try to get to 1st unless I'm under 5 mph. If I need something lower than 2nd during normal driving, I will rev up then downshift, but I almost never do that. Reverse I have the same problem, though my 91 is 211k miles older than that 04 of yours. Calebz idea I think is the best. Before a stop, I usually shift into 2nd, then to first. To reverse, I'll let out the clutch for a second, then try and shift into reverse. Works most of the time