Common signs that your gearbox may need repair include:

• Difficulty shifting gears or delayed gear changes.

• Grinding or whining noises when driving or shifting gears.

• Slipping gears, where the vehicle shifts out of gear unexpectedly.

• Fluid leaks under the vehicle, indicating a transmission fluid leak.

• Burning smell, which may indicate overheating in the gearbox.

• Unresponsive transmission, where the vehicle doesn’t respond properly to gear changes.

Driving with a faulty gearbox is not recommended. It can lead to further damage, including complete gearbox failure, and can pose safety risks such as loss of control or sudden breakdowns. If you notice any signs of gearbox trouble, it’s important to have it inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

Gearbox problems can result from several factors, including:

• Wear and tear over time, especially with older vehicles.

• Low or contaminated transmission fluid, which can lead to overheating and damage.

• Driving habits, such as frequent stop-and-start driving or aggressive shifting in manual vehicles.

• Clutch issues in manual transmissions, which can affect gearbox performance.

It’s recommended to have your gearbox inspected regularly, typically during routine vehicle servicing. If your vehicle has high mileage or you notice any signs of gearbox trouble, you should schedule an inspection sooner to avoid more serious damage.

At QCD Autocentre Brackley, our gearbox repair service includes:

• A thorough inspection of the gearbox and related components.

• Diagnostic testing to identify any electronic or mechanical faults.

• Repair or replacement of damaged components with high-quality parts.

• Checking and topping up transmission fluid.

• A road test to ensure your gearbox is operating smoothly.

The cost of gearbox repair depends on the nature of the problem and the parts that need to be repaired or replaced. At QCD Autocentre Brackley, we provide transparent, upfront pricing, and you’ll receive a detailed quote before any work begins.

The time required for gearbox repair varies depending on the extent of the damage. A minor repair may be completed within a few hours, while more extensive repairs could take longer. Our technicians will provide an estimated time frame once the issue has been assessed.

In many cases, gearbox issues can be resolved with repairs, such as replacing worn components or addressing fluid leaks. However, if the gearbox has suffered extensive damage, a replacement may be necessary. Our technicians will assess the condition of your gearbox and recommend the most cost-effective solution.