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.

A gearbox repair for BMW vehicles requires specialist tools and workshop facilities, so this work is completed through the RAC Approved Garage Network. Our approved garages service models such as 1 Series, 3 Series, X1, X3, and 2 Series, following manufacturer procedures, certified equipment standards and rigorous quality checks. You receive transparent pricing, progress updates and RAC‑backed guarantees.

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 for BMW

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

Cartech North Shields

4.6/5

If you're looking for car servicing and repairs in the north east come to the experts here at Cartech. With over 29 years of experience within the auto trade, you can count on us for assistance with almost anything car related. we have highley skilled technicians hybrid and electric trained. we have 2 garages with 6 ramps and a mot bay so jobs are all completed quick . we have courtesy cars available need to be pre booked.we are AA approved ans RAC approved so we are audited regular so you know everything is top spec .Cartech has been open for over 20 years and our wide range of garage services include: - MOTs - Auto Electrics - Car Servicing - Vehicle Repairs - Brakes - Diagnostics - Tyres - Clutches - Air con -Carbon cleaning -DPF regenerating -Forte AC power cleaning
21C Oak Road, West Chirton Ind Estate, North Shields, NE298SF

The Motor Company, Bosch Car Service.

4.1/5

The Motor company, located in Tauton, is an independent garage that has been servicing and repairing all makes of car and light commercials since 1985 using factory trained technicians with state of the art tooling; this allows us to offer fleet companies and private individuals a one stop shop centred around excellent service with affordable pricing. During 2009 we relocated to their new site having outgrown the original premises (all be it a stones throw away), enabling them to expand their services into new and used car sales, bodyshop smart repairs, paint-less dent removal, interior trim repair on velour, leather, plastics, and fabric as well as a valet department and a bespoke parts department to name but a few. The new fully automated M.O.T bay and service centre has been designed to cater for all manufactures cars and light commercials all are serviced to the manufacturers standards; some of our partners include major fleet companies such as Wessex Water, British Gas, the Highways Agency and the One link platform. All these groups recognise the need for quality repairs, reduced vehicle down time with guaranteed workmanship at a reasonable cost (cheapest is not always the best). The Motor company have won the coveted Fleet Garage of the year several times; a credit to their staff and all concerned.
Cook Way, Bindon Road, Taunton, TA2 6BJ

Auto Solutions & Parts Limited

4.7/5

1) ENGINE REBUILDING ( RECONDITIONING ) 2) DSG Gearbox Repair and Replacements and most of the makes Automatic Transmission services 3) All mechanical work including MOT, Servicing, Brake Discs & Brake Pads, DPF Regen, Welding work so you do not always have to buy new parts if your old parts are repairable, etc. 4) New & Part worn Tyres on very good prices Special offer on selected tyre sizes on new ones 5) Air condition gas refill for new & old cars The reason to use us is that once you come to us you do not need to go to different garages for your vehicle repairs as we do everything under one roof
231A, Montgomery Street, Sparkbrook, Birmingham, B111DS

Duke Street Motors

4.2/5

We are an established local independent garage and are proud to be members of Autofirst Network – a nationwide network of independent garages operating to the Network’s 6 core values of Capability, Consistency, Care, Clarity, Cost Effectiveness and Customer Focus. For your added peace of mind we are members of the Motor Ombudsman service which is approved by The Trading Standards Institute. In short, we are a local garage you can trust offering you the support and service guarantees of a national network, giving you complete peace of mind.
6 King Edward Road, Loughborough, LE111RZ

Red Depot Autocare

4.6/5

We’re based in Aylesbury, our friendly local garage is built on the core values of great customer service,dependable workmanship and a clear way of automotive excellence at exceptionally affordable prices. Because Red Depot Autocare works as an independent garage, we can provide very cost-effective car repairs in Aylesbury and surrounding areas at a 50% cheaper rate than main dealers in and around the Aylesbury area. Red Depot Autocare is a strongly established service centre which has been around since 2014 and has 5 star reviews across the net on Google, Facebook and various other platforms on the net. We’re thrilled to offer our clients an extensive support range including MOT Testing, servicing, all kinds of car repairs and used cars for sale. At Red Depot Autocare, we always aim to deliver quality workmanship using the most recent trade practices to ensure your car, van or truck is always fully maintained and in safe working order. Our experienced team of technicians undergo advanced training with the newest trade technology to bring you a complete assortment of engine management and diagnostic solutions alongside reputable MOT testing, vehicle servicing and recommendations on used cars to buy.
Unit 7A, Smeaton Close, Aylesbury, HP198SU

Frequently asked questions about a 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.