im looking at a couple of 04-05 6MT models over the weekend. I know the early auto’s had some issues but did the 6MT’s? I know the basics on what to look for but I just didn’t know if there were things specific to these models.

 

3rd gear can be problematic (grinding, popping back into neutral, notchiness). The "official" fix is to replace the 3rd gear synchro but the generally accepted fix is replacing the fluid with the newer Honda MTF or with AC Delco synchromesh friction modified MTF.

It's a well known issue since there is a TSB for it, but none of the 6MTs I test drove had it so it doesn't appear to be a widespread issue like the auto tranny failures.

I'm curious if experienced members can chime in with any other issues.

 

Probably the most commonly reported issue with the 6MT models is a grind going into third gear and/or third gear popping out. Regardless, the fix is simple, replace the transmission fluid with 2-quarts 10-ounces of ACDelco Synchromesh Friction Modified manual transmission fluid.

 

I experienced both the grinding as well as the popping out of gear on my 2006; like I wrote above, replacing the MTF with ACDelco SMFM will cure the issue.

 

Manual transmissions are solid. Nothing to be worried about except to change over to GM sychromesh FM at your earliest convenience as stated above.

 

I use Honda MTF in my 05 TL. No problems with any grinding or notchiness.

 

You're in the minority; that said, sooner or later you'll be rushing to your local GM dealer or hitting up Amazon for ACDelco Synchromesh Friction Modified.

 

Spaceman checking in with AC Delco synchromesh friction modifiers!!!!
cured my 3rd gear grind!!

 

is this the one you guys recommend? how many quarts does it need to drain and refill? Thank You!

 

Yup, that's the stuff. The drain and refill process takes 2-quarts plus 10-ounces, said another way, 2.3 quarts.

 

said in another way; buy 3 quarts.

 

$20 a quart oh lort lol im used to that $6 honda MTF, guess ill have to suck it up

 

shop around; i would never buy it at $15+ a quart.
most of the time; i'm sitting at $12-13 a quart.
if i get lucky, i can find it for $10 or $11.

 

Yikes, $20.00 per quart? I just looked at my history and see I bought it from Amazon back in May for $10.62 per quart. I wonder what changed.

 

when i clicked that link it says I had purchased in Dec. 2016 for $11.80

Amazon likes to play with supply and demand.
I assume there was a recent demand for it and thus was like, we can make so much money off these suckers.

 

My local NTB did my last change and they picked it up for just under $14/quart from the local Chevy dealer.

 

Went to the Chevy dealer today and picked up 3 quarts for $51 CDN ($39US).

 

Maybe I am but I have put 20k miles on my car since i got it and have zero issues and I have plenty of that fluid in my garage for when I need it.