da_illist_onE

Is it just me or is the S2K harder to shift smoothly than other cars? Most noticeably 1st to 2nd and 2nd to 3rd. If I shift fast, it engages smoothly. But when I get lazy and shift slowly, it gets a bit notchy and also has a clunking sound when engaging a gear. I have never had this problem in any other cars. Any tips or advice to get it to shift smoothly? I have also noticed that the stick feels like it hits a moving part in the tranny when I engage 3rd on occasion. No noise or grind just a feel I get through the stick. Any help/input would be appreciated. Just want to get my car shifting like this Thanks guys!

mxt_77

That's called a "very direct feel".

If you want things to be smooth, rev-match. If you want things to be very smooth, rev-match & double-clutch.

MattG

Try shifting above 4000 rpm - that should make it easier. I also find it a bit notchy at low revs.

M@

Estukay

This is "normal" on the S2000. gets smoother as it warms up though!

HI SPEEDR

Yes, I agree with Estukay, it shifts smoother as it warms up. "It's the nature of the beast." Some members say that if you use Red Line transmission fluid, or change the tranny fluid every 6000 miles, it helps. I have over 9000 miles on my '03 and still have the same fluid.

da_illist_onE

Another question, when do you guys reccomend changing the tranny and diff fluids? I know what intervals the owners manual states but need feedback from other owners. Thanks for all the replies.

simons2k

I would change your diff oil at 7500 miles. I've read many a thread that the oil in there takes a beating. When I changed my oil (at 10k miles) it was blackish/grey color, wreaked like toxic waste.

I changed the trans fluid 6 months into ownership. The fluid didn't look that bad.

jyeung528

i'm gonna change the motor, tranny, and diff oil at 3,500.

watneys

No issues here. I think it's one of the smoothest manuals out there.

koala

The car shifts a lot better if you're revving it up higher... shifts at 4,000 - 5,000 produce a nice smooth feel.

The car doesn't like being shifted at low RPM