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.

Around Southampton - from Shirley to Portswood, Bassett and Swaythling - RAC Approved Garages make it easy to get a gearbox repair, with simple communication and friendly, expert service.

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 Southampton

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

Cadnam Garage Services

5.0/5

Whether needing an MOT, service or repairs, an ECU remap, or just another vehicle, our team of experienced technicians and support staff are happy to advise you in finding a solution to your requirements. Cadnam Garage is a member of the Good Garage Scheme, as well as an approved RAC and AA garage. We adhere to a strict code of conduct, which provides an open and honest approach to everything carried out in our workshops. While your vehicle is in our care, we will keep you informed every step of the way, and we will not undertake any additional work without your prior approval.
Southampton Road, Cadnam, SO40 2NB

HiQ Tyres & Autocare Gosport

4.9/5

HiQ Tyre & Autocare Gosport, We are a local business that started from the ground up. As well as MOT’s and Servicing being our strength we are also able to offer Tyres for any vehicle, any size, any brand. In fact we do pretty much anything your car could ever need so if you’re unsure just give us a call. Reg and John the owners own and operate 3 HiQ’s across Hampshire and are experts in the industry with countless years of experience amongst them and the team. We are pleased to support our Military Personnel in Gosport and offer discount on production of ID. Our car care service offer includes Oil & filter service, interim and full car service schedules alongside Manufacturer Approved Warranty vehicle servicing. We also offer exhausts, brakes, clutches, MOT testing, car repairs, air-conditioning services, wheel alignment services and much more. Our team of mechanics and technicians work to the highest standard possible and are highly qualified to work on a range of various car and van marques. We are also proud to offer our customers excellent garage services at an exceptional price. Our trained technicians are very approachable and are able to provide expert advice in the best interest of your vehicle. We also offer Payment Assist so you can split your bill over several payments, however, this excludes payment for Tyres.
104 Fareham Road, Gosport, PO130BB

Solent MOT Centre ltd

4.2/5

Based in upper shirley (Winchester Road) in southampton, Close to the general hospital, we offer a range of services such as class 4 mot, servicing, mot repairs, suspension, clutches and same day mot and repairs.
Unit 3A North Brook Industrial Estate, Hollybrook Road, Southampton, SO166RB

Eco MOT Auto Centre

3.6/5

Eco MOT and Auto Care Located at 27-32 st marys place, Southampton, SO14 3HY Service offers: General Auto Repairs MOT Class 4 and 7 ( cars and vans) Brake Repair Clutch and transmission Tyre and 3D alignment Vehicle Diagnostic Vehicle Remapping Suspension Air Conditioning
Eco Tyres 30-32 St. Marys Place, Southampton, SO143HY

New Chapel Garage Services - Hedge End

3.0/5

New Chapel Garage is an established local independent garage offering quality repairs and fantastic customer service. We 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. All our staff give a friendly, honest and professional service whether it be car servicing, car repair or carrying your vehicles yearly MOT which are carried out on site by our own staff. We are a DVSA/VOSA approved MOT testing station and our mechanics are always happy to offer impartial advice and guidance, and with our cutting-edge digital diagnostic tools we can pinpoint vehicle issues in moments.. 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. Simply drop off your car with us and collect it when it’s ready; or stick around and enjoy a hot or cold drink on us while you wait!
7 Mayflower Park, Botley Road, Southampton, SO302HE

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.