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 Kia 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 Sportage, Niro, Ceed, Picanto, and EV6, 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 Kia

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

MK Automobiles Ltd

4.9/5

MK Automobiles Ltd was established in 2005 and are a family run Sales and Servicing dealership in Rochdale, Greater Manchester (Lancashire) just off junction 20 of the M62 Motorway. We have a great reputation for customer satisfaction and are rated 4.9* by Autotrader, 4.9* Judge Service and 4.4* by Google for our customer reviews. Our Service department led by Brain Marland have a wealth of knowledge with a combined experience of over 65 years. We utilise the latest dealership diagnostic equipment and latest Manufacturers working instructions and offer a wide range of services including, RAC and other Warranty Company repair work, routine Servicing and repair work, Brakes, Clutches, Gearbox & Engine repairs, Suspension systems, Timing Belt replacements, MOT's and more. We use only genuine or high quality original equipment Manufacturer parts and lubricants. Feel free to contact us for a no obligation quote email us on [email protected].
Crawford Street, Rochdale, OL165RS

Bismillah Garage Services Ltd

4.2/5

Bismillah Garage Services is a family business, well established and respected MOT & car service garage in Luton also supplying replacement automotive parts such as exhausts, brakes spark plugs, oil filters and tyres. We undertake car servicing and repairs that including computer diagnostics, brakes, clutches etc. Regular car servicing can extend the life of a vehicle considerably and can save money. We focus on providing an exceptional garage service with competitive pricing. We have been serving customers in the Luton for 15 years. We have an up-to-date, fully equipped test centre, with all the facilities to service and repair your vehicles. We have built a solid reputation in Luton for delivering high quality garage services tailor made to meet the needs of our clients. Much of our business comes from word of mouth and satisfied repeat customers.
2A Tudor Road, Luton, LU3 1RN

Vehicle Solutions Sheffield Ltd

4.4/5

ONE OF A KIND SERVICE AND REPAIR GARAGE IN SHEFFIELD, SOUTH YORKSHIRE WE ARE A LOCAL GARAGE FOR LOCAL PEOPLE ACROSS SHEFFIELD Vehicle Solutions Sheffield LTD can provide a range of services including MOT tests, servicing and repairs which are offered at a competitive price. Our customers time is important to us and that's why we aim to work in a timely manner to get you back on the road as soon as possible. We aim to provide great prices for our work that won’t break your bank balance.
Jubilee House, Claywheels Lane, Sheffield, S61LZ

Whatlington Garage

4.4/5

Whatlington Garage
Woodmans Green Road, Battle, TN33 0NL

Moorhouse Garage Ltd

5.0/5

Hi, Here we have a higher duty of care as our technicians are main dealer trained including BMW and Mini, VAG Group (Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, Skoda and Bentley) and the FCA Family (Fiat, Chrysler, Jeep and Alfa Romeo) We also have main dealer level diagnostic tools for the above brands and extremely confident we can fix your vehicle for you. **Here at Moorhouse Garage we Are Able To Carry Out All Your Motoring Needs from a simple service to the depths of building a forged engine for you as we're a tuning and remapping centre too**. We Also Specialise in Dpf Cleaning Family Run Business for over 25 Years We hope that this is of interest and we would be very happy to answer any questions you have. We look forward to hearing from you. Kindest regards, Moorhouse Garage
Unit J, Moorhouse Park, Westerham, TN162ET

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.