I have a new 2006 Accord I4 with a 5 speed manual transmission.

The Owner's Manual states on p.170, "Avoid skipping gears when shifting up or down or serious transmission damage can occur."

This is my 6th car with a manual tranny. I've never heard of such a thing. When you pull out to pass you often want to double down-shift. When you come up to a corner, it is common to approach in 5th gear, put the clutch in as speed drops, and then shift to 2nd or 3rd to pull through the corner.

Is this chapter written by paranoid lawyers, or is there a sound technical justification for this statement? I've asked a couple mechanics and mechanical engineers, and they share my bewilderment at this statement.

 

It really means u shouldn't skip gears when upshifting because the mainshaft speed is much faster than the countershaft speed.

 

Hi, Got a 02 civic 5 spd. Drove the car 120k in 2 1/2 yrs. drive up hill and down hills in the angeles crest hwy, I down shift, up shift, skip shift up hill and down and level. I don't lug the engine, listen to revs at all times, try not to mis shift, dealer takes care of trans oil changes as needed. Never had a problem with my trans, does not sound louder then when I purchased it new, Still shifts great and quick. When having a bit of fun, hold shifts until max rpm. Also syncro shift with no clutch 1-5 carefully,becareful when doing down shift no clutch! Honda built a great car, take care to shift correctly and it will last a long long time.