Gearbox Loose and "Slushy" Sound When Under 2200 RPMs
 

Good evening folks. I'm new to the forum but I have a new (to me) 2013 Scion FR-S with manual gearbox and I've got some issues.

My biggest concern is that I just bought it a few weeks ago with 14,500 miles. I've put on about 700 miles and in that time I've noticed the gearbox seems to be showing wear, even with such low miles. After it warms up the gearbox produces what I can only describe as a "slushy" sound when the rpms are below 2200. It's totally silent when it's cold... but once it's warm it sounds troubling. It's more pronounced when the the drivetrain is under a load, such as accelerating or climbing a hill. At coasting speed it's not noticeable.

Another odd phenomenon that I think is directly related to the "slushy" sound is a strange "slapping" sound upon deceleration. Example: I'm driving along and I see a red light ahead. I depress the clutch, drop into neutral, release the clutch and start slowing down. As the car reaches about 15 mph there's suddenly this subtle "slapping" sound that comes from the gearbox that seems like the gears are loosely spinning off kilter and rattling slightly. I know this probably sounds minor but it just doesn't sound normal.

There seems to be a lot of slack in the gears, if that makes any sense... it just seems more "loose" than it should be.

I want this thing to last but I'm worried that the previous owner may have beat the hell out of this gearbox. I need the ears of an expert to tell me what they think before I take it to the dealer and fight them on a warranty issue.

Your thoughts? Any insight would be greatly appreciated!

what you describe as a "slapping" sound is just the AC compressor kicking on and lowering the RPMs. There about 34453456 threads on the forums about it already.

As to the first problem... below 2200RPM? you're doing it wrong. Get that dude up to 4k and shift. I've noticed the car is MUCH happier shifting above 4k, and so will you be!

Sound is normal. Will mostly hear on 2nd. I just took in to dealer to check. All normal. Ease your mind and take it.

Freetime... you made me laugh out loud! Yes, she does feel good at higher RPMs. As far as the "slapping" sound upon deceleration, I would love to believe it's the AC compressor but my AC was turned off... windows down... enjoying the cool air. Sadly, the "slapping" continued.

They both are normal and there are threads about those.

Transmission noise at low rpm: HERE

Rattling direct injection noise: HERE

If I knew how to "thank" you guys on this thing I would. I really appreciate the input!

Just to make sure you didn't miss this. I updated my post with the links to the threads. Just making sure since you quoted my post before I editted it.

Have any of you had experience with changing the gearbox oil and/or upgrading the rear shift bushing? I'm leaning towards Motul 300 gear oil and the Perrin Rear Shift Bushing.

Thanks man! Can't thank you enough!

Wow... so while I was looking for messages regarding Borla cat-back exhausts I came upon this video... https://youtu.be/PmAvdjoOB1w

If I listen closely I can hear the same "slush" I get with my own gearbox. I guess it IS "normal" or common.