What is wrong with my car?

[natethehorn]

I drive a 2002 Nissan Xterra. It's the very basic edition.....4cyl., manual transmission. A little less that 90K miles.

Out of nowhere, I think it was Superbowl Sunday when I downshifted approaching a light, it made a grinding/buzzing noise as I went into third gear. Knowing that this will more than likely be an expensive repair, I have just been coasting to a stop in neutral to prevent the noise or any further damage. I know that's bad for my brakes, but oh well.

Everytime I slow down in 2nd or 3rd gear with the clutch engaged, it makes this hideous noise. It's very similar to the sound made when you miss putting it into gear.

I have had no problems at all upshifting and its not throwing itself out of gear, at all.

Any ideas as to what could be going on here?

 

[bozo_casanova]

It sounds like your clutch needs to be adjusted.

 

[GatorDave]

Sounds like a flux capacitor issue.

 

[Bernard]

It's too late now, but you shouldn't be down shifting every time you approach a red light or stop sign. That's why you have brakes. Your transmission is designed to propel your car forward, not slow it down. It's FAR cheaper to replace your brake pads a little more often, than shorten the life of your transmission by 50% or more, which it looks like you've already done.

Bernard

 

[Blain]

Nut behind the steering wheel.

 

[voteforhank]

1. Throw out Bearing or 2. Synchros in Tranny? Just Guessin without hearing the noise it makes.

In any event, you gotta take it to the shop.

Buy some Vasoline and prepare yourself.

 

[gardere_owns_OU]

i recommend you take it into carter's transmissions off of lamar.

just sayin'

 

[accuratehorn]

If you come by my shop during the day, I will drive it and give you my opinion. We work mainly on Hondas and Toyotas, but I should be able to tell if it is clutch or transmission related.
PM me.