Gearbox & Transmission
AKA 'Crunchy Boi Fixer' — When your gearbox sounds like a bag of gravel.
Gears crunching? Won't go into reverse? Automatic slipping? We diagnose and repair manual and automatic transmission problems.
See our upfront pricingQuick Facts
What's This All About Then?
The gearbox is one of those things you never think about until it goes wrong. Then it's ALL you think about. Crunching into second? Popping out of gear? Auto box hunting for gears like it's lost? Transmission problems range from 'just needs fluid' to 'that's going to hurt your wallet'. We diagnose properly before recommending anything. Fluid changes, selector repairs, linkage adjustments, synchro issues, mechatronic units - we handle manual and automatic boxes. Some repairs we can do on-site, some need more space. Either way, we'll tell you honestly what you're dealing with.
How it works
A gearbox uses different-sized gears to trade engine speed for wheel torque — low gears for pulling away, high gears for cruising. In a manual box, you move a selector and synchromesh rings spin the next gear up to speed so it engages smoothly without grinding, all lubricated by gear oil. An automatic works differently: instead of a clutch it uses a torque converter (a fluid coupling) and a set of internal clutch packs and planetary gears, controlled hydraulically and electronically, bathed in Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). That fluid does everything — it lubricates, cools, and actually transmits the drive — which is why clean ATF at the right level matters so much on an auto.
Warning signs to watch for
- •Crunching or grinding when changing gear — worn synchromesh rings on a manual box
- •Difficulty selecting a gear, or it jumping out of gear — worn linkage or internal wear
- •Whining, humming or growling that changes with speed — often worn bearings or low oil
- •Slipping or delayed engagement on an automatic — commonly low or degraded ATF
- •Jerky, harsh or hunting gear changes on an auto — a fluid, solenoid or control fault
- •Burnt smell or a warning light on an automatic — overheated transmission fluid
Common causes
What we do
We start with diagnostics and a road test to pin down whether it's the gearbox, the clutch or the fluid — they often feel similar. Many issues are solved with the right gear-oil or ATF service, a linkage adjustment or a solenoid, well short of a rebuild. Where deeper work is needed we'll explain it plainly first. We carry out diagnostics and fluid services right at your home or workplace.
Gearbox & Transmission — FAQs
Can a fluid change really fix a rough-shifting automatic?
Surprisingly often, yes — if you catch it early. Degraded or low ATF is behind a lot of slipping, delayed and jerky shifts, because that fluid actually operates the gearbox. A proper fluid and filter service can transform an auto that's just starting to misbehave. It won't cure serious internal wear, but it's always the sensible, cheaper first step.
Is grinding when I change gear the gearbox or the clutch?
It can be either, which is why we test first. Worn synchromesh in the gearbox causes grinding, but a clutch that isn't fully disengaging will crunch the gears too — and that's a cheaper fix. We road-test and diagnose which it is before quoting, so you don't pay for a gearbox rebuild when a clutch or cylinder is at fault.
How often should I change my gearbox oil or ATF?
It varies by car, but the idea of 'sealed for life' oil is often optimistic. Many manuals benefit from fresh gear oil, and many autos from an ATF service around every 60,000–80,000 miles. Clean fluid is the cheapest gearbox insurance there is. We'll check your manufacturer's guidance and the fluid's condition and advise honestly.
What You Actually Get
Common Gearbox & Transmission Faults We Fix
Random Knowledge You Didn't Ask For
A modern automatic gearbox makes over 100 gear decisions per minute. It's working harder than you think.
Most manual gearbox issues are actually clutch issues. Good news: clutches are easier to replace.
Why Get Your Gearbox & Transmission Done By Us?
We're Quick
Fast response, efficient work. No dragging things out.
We Come To You
Your driveway, your office, wherever. We travel.
We Guarantee It
If we mess up, we fix it. Simple as that.