A close up of a car gear stickA close-up of a car gearbox stick
Service, Repairs & MOT

Gearbox repair in Bedford

Book a local RAC Approved Garage that you can trust.

  • 12-months parts guarantee
  • Honest pricing
  • Exceptional customer service

Why choose the RAC for a gearbox repair?

At the RAC, we've got over 125 years' experience helping UK drivers. We have the skills and knowledge to keep your vehicle running. We'll give you results you can rely on at a price you can afford.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car
A close up of a car gear stick

Book a gearbox repair

The gearbox handles smooth gear changes and overall driving performance. If you’re hearing grinding noises, having trouble changing gears, or gears are slipping, it’s time for a repair at an RAC Approved Garage.

Any work done will meet the high standards set by the RAC.
We’re friendly, straightforward and jargon-free
A mechanic inspecting the underside of a vehicle.

Book a diagnostic

A mechanic will check your car for faults and talk you through any repairs you might need. There are various ways to check for faults, which could include a physical examination or plugging in to check your car’s onboard engine management system.

We’ll look for any mechanical or electrical problems. If we need to, we’ll also check your car’s onboard engine management system. Depending on your car and issue, this will usually include: – Engine – Power steering – Brakes – Transmission – Exhaust system – Fuel injection system – Cooling system and air flow – Sensors

And it’s not just gearbox repairs that we do in Bedford

RAC Approved Garages offer MOTs and services. Our professional mechanics have the expertise and experience to make sure your vehicle is operating safely and efficiently – results you can rely on at a price you can afford.

A close up of an RAC mobile mechanic looking under the hood of a car

Try one of our RAC Approved Garages

UK Truck And Plant

Our Bedford workshop handles repairs and inspections on all types of vehicles; including HGV's, truck and plants machinery From brake inspections to electrical diagnostics, we offer a full range of services tailored to the unique requirements of Fiat Motorhome and Camper Van Our designated Light Commercials team look after all vehicles under 3.5 tons (Gross Vehicle Weight) both in-house and on-site for repairs and inspections We are able to MOT test HGV's and all rigid vehicles, including trailers and tractor units
Ampthill Rd, Bedford, MK429JJ

Forte Motors

Forte Motors Ltd is an independent, family run, car and commercial vehicle garage and used car dealership. Based in Bedford and servicing Beds, Bucks, Herts and Northants we have over 30 years experience in the motor industry and second hand car trade. Our friendly and affordable services range from MOT and servicing, tyres, brake and exhaust repairs and replacement, as well as bodyshop and diagnostics. Our aim is to provide you with a service that is not only of the up most quality, but one that offers fantastic value for money.
46-48 Stuart Road, Kempston, Bedford, MK428HS

Automotive Services (Eastern) Ltd

Welcome to Automotive Services, we have many years' experience in all aspects of the motor trade. Our team is highly experienced and fully trained to provide a service which is second to none. Our fully equipped workshops cater for the repair and service of cars, vans and light commercial vehicles, any make or model, any age, without affecting your manufacturer's warranty. We can also mechanically service your classic car, moped and scooter, Quad bike and your power tools. As an independent garage service in Bedford, Bedfordshire we can provide tailored maintenance solutions to match your personal, business and fleet requirements. We strive to offer outstanding workmanship and customer service at unbeatable prices, whether you require a bulb, tyre, car servicing and MOTs or a complete engine, we will go that extra mile. We offer a free collection and delivery service from your home or workplace and free courtesy vehicles upon request to make life easier.
35 Brunel Road, Bedford, MK41 9TJ

E-Carparts T/A B S Motors

BS Motors has been serving Sandy and the surrounding area with high quality vehicle servicing and repairs in excess of 40 years. We are proud to be an RAC, Bosch & Trading Standards Approved Garage And Used Car Dealer and score consistently high in our audits carried out By both Bosch and the RAC. We strive to bring you the best possible service at all times. With a dedicated, highly skilled team who attend regular technical training courses at Bosch’s technical training facilities combined with the latest garage equipment including state of the art engine management diagnostic tooling we are well placed to undertake the most complexed diagnostics and repairs. The results speak for themselves, one of the reasons why BS Motors Sandy has thrived since the garage was established in 1983. We usually have a small selection of quality of RAC & Trading Standards Approved used cars available, visit our website: www.bsmotorscarsales.co.uk. Check out our excellent reviews that demonstrate we are passionate about our business and take great pride in all of our services offered. We have a high number of satisfied customers reviews from local regions and also from further away including; Stevenage, Bedford, Baldock, Letchworth, St. Neots and Biggleswade.
Unit 3, 1 Stockton End, Sandy, SG19 1SB

Bleak Hall Motors

Bleak Hall Motors, based near Bleak Hall, Milton Keynes, have a wealth of experience in providing servicing, MOT and repairs to customers throughout Bleak Hall, Milton Keynes and beyond. Our convenient location means we are easily accessible from the main routes through the area.
Chesney Wold, Bleak Hall, Milton Keynes, MK6 1LN

Frequently asked questions on gearbox repair

If your clutch has gone, you may have a problem trouble shifting gears or a soft or spongy clutch pedal. It might not even move when in gear!

Gearbox issues, on the other hand, show themselves with grinding noises, difficulty staying in gear, or leaking fluid. Both issues affect your gear shifting but come from different parts of the transmission system.

A gearbox specialist is a mechanic who’s an expert in diagnosing, repairing, and replacing gearboxes. They have training and experience dealing with many types of gearboxes, including manual, automatic, and semi-automatic systems. Talking to a specialist makes sure that any gearbox issues you may have are accurately diagnosed and repaired to the best standard.

Yes, many damaged gearboxes can be repaired. How damaged it is dictates how repairable it is. Small issues like worn seals or bearings can often be fixed. Severe damage might mean a complete rebuild or replacement. A professional mechanic can see the damage and tell you the best course of action.

Common signs of a faulty gearbox include:

  • Grinding or whining noises.
  • Difficulty changing gears.
  • Leaking transmission fluid.
  • A burning smell from the transmission area.
  • The car slipping out of gear or not staying in gear

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to get your gearbox seen by a professional.

The gearbox transfers power from the engine to the wheels. This allows your car to move at different speeds. It adjusts the engine's power output to the wheels and makes sure the engine runs well at various speeds.

Mechanics use several methods to find gearbox issues:

  • Visual inspection: Checking for obvious signs of damage or leaks.
  • Test drive: Watching the car’s performance while driving.
  • Diagnostic tools: Using scanners to read error codes from the car’s computer.
  • Fluid analysis: Checking the condition and level of transmission fluid.

These methods help pinpoint the problem.

A DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) is a type of automatic transmission. It uses two clutches for faster and smoother gear changes. As it combines the ease of an automatic with the performance of a manual gearbox, it’s popular in many modern vehicles.

Whether a gearbox repair is covered by warranty depends on your policy. Manufacturer warranties often cover gearbox repairs in a certain period or mileage. Extended warranties and aftermarket policies may also provide you cover. Check your warranty details or talk to your provider for more information.

Most standard car insurance policies don’t cover gearbox repairs unless the damage is due to an insured event like an accident. Mechanical breakdown cover or specialised policies might offer you protection. Review your insurance policy or speak with your insurer to find out more about your coverage.

Gearbox repair costs vary a lot, depending on the issue and car type. Minor repairs can cost you a few hundred pounds. Major repairs or replacements can potentially cost you more than £1,000. Labour rates and party prices also influence the total cost that you may have to pay. It’s a good idea to get more than one quote for a good estimate.

For the best quality repairs, look for certified mechanics with helpful reviews. Specialists can provide you accurate diagnoses and reliable repairs, keeping your car running as it should.