Gearbox repair and replacement cost
A manual gearbox repair typically runs £450–£900 at a UK independent, a reconditioned replacement £900–£2,000 fitted, and automatic or DSG gearboxes £1,500–£3,500. The spread is huge, so know which job you are actually being quoted for.
What it costs, job by job
| Job | Typical UK independent price |
|---|---|
| Manual gearbox repair (bearings, synchros) | £450–£900 |
| Reconditioned manual gearbox, fitted | £900–£2,000 |
| Used gearbox, fitted | £600–£1,200 |
| Automatic gearbox recondition/replace | £1,500–£3,500 |
| DSG/dual-clutch mechatronic repair | £800–£1,600 |
| Automatic gearbox oil service | £150–£350 |
Repair, recon, used or new?
A worn bearing or crunchy synchro on a manual can often be repaired if the case comes apart cleanly. A reconditioned unit with a warranty usually beats a used box from a breaker, because a used box is a gamble on someone else's driving. New gearboxes from the manufacturer rarely make financial sense on anything older than five years.
Signs to catch it early
Whining that changes with road speed, crunching into one particular gear, jumping out of gear on the overrun, or a DSG that shudders at low speed. Early on, some of these are a £150 oil service or a £300 repair. Ignored, they become a whole gearbox.
How to avoid overpaying
Get the quote broken down into parts and labour, ask whether the price is repair or replacement, and on automatics ask if a fluid service is worth trying first. Many "failing" automatics are actually running old, burnt fluid.
Common questions
Is it worth repairing a gearbox on an older car?
If the car is otherwise sound, a £900–£1,500 reconditioned manual box on a car worth £4,000+ usually makes sense. On a £1,500 car, a used box fitted for £600–£900 is the more realistic route.
Can I drive with a whining gearbox?
For a short time, usually yes, but a whining bearing eventually collapses and can wreck the casing, turning a repair into a replacement. Get it looked at promptly.
Why are DSG and automatic gearboxes so much more expensive?
They are far more complex, need special fluid and diagnostic equipment, and many faults are in the mechatronic control unit, which is a costly part on its own.
Does an automatic gearbox need servicing?
Yes, despite some being sold as sealed for life. A fluid and filter change every 40,000 to 60,000 miles, typically £150–£350, prevents a lot of expensive failures.