Service, Repairs & MOT

Gearbox repair in Bristol

Book a local RAC Approved Garage that you can trust.

  • 12-months parts guarantee
  • Honest pricing
  • Exceptional customer service

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.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car

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

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 Bristol

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.

Try one of our RAC Approved Garages

Monster Gear Garage

4.6/5

We are an independent 5 star garage with high experienced technicians that will take care of your vehicle, we cover a wide range of repairs like: MOT repairs Servicing Air Con Regas Air Con Recharge Brakes Clutches Timing belt / chain replacements Welding Diagnostics Engine repairs / replacement Drive in with no appointment. If you wish to wait while your car is being repaired we have a luxury waiting area with TV, Wi-Fi and free hot drinks. Our garage is a comfortable place for you and your vehicle.
Bridge Road Ind Est, Unit 16 - 18, Bristol, BS154TA

T.D Garage Services

4.5/5

At TD Garage Services Ltd, we take care of all car makes and models. Whether you have a Ford, a Fiat, a Honda or a Hyundai, you can trust us to do a quality job. We are well known as a reliable local garage that provides a range of services including car repairs, servicing as well as MOT testing.
Unit 20, Windmill Farm Business Centre, Bristol, BS34DB

PC Motors.

4.3/5

Established in 1980, our main workshop is located in the Horfield area of Bristol. We have a thirty year heritage of being Volkswagen Audi Group (VAG) specialists. As such we are highly experienced in the repair, parts replacement and servicing of the entire range of VAG makes and models. Our many years of expertise, working on these respected brands, makes us the leading independent specialists for VAG vehicles in the Bristol area. We are a fully certified RAC Approved Garage Network member and can also carry out any warranty work. Our team of trained, qualified, reliable and trustworthy technicians and mechanics have secured solid customer and key stakeholder relationships over our 30 year heritage. Confidence in our service quality, advice integrity and competitive pricing has resulted in a significant number of our customers staying loyal to us for over ten years.
Unit 1, Elm Road, Horfield, Bristol, BS78RJ

IN'n'OUT Autocentres Bristol

4.2/5

At IN’n’OUT Autocentres we offer fixed prices MOTs and Servicing for any make and model of car with no hidden extras. We are proud to be a ‘Which? Trusted Trader’ so we are really a garage you can trust. We also have a 5 Star Trustpilot reviews rating. We provide OEM parts and 12 months warranty on all parts and servicing. We only use premium Castrol oils in all servicing. Our services are all completed ‘while-u-wait’ so you have never have the inconvenience of losing your car for the day. You can watch your car as it is being worked on through the viewing window or sit back and relax in our clean and comfortable customer lounges with FREE Wi-Fi and coffee and read the latest magazines. Check out our latest reviews and BOOK NOW!!
In-N-Out Autocentres, Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, BS10 7UD

Bond Motor Services

4.2/5

Welcome to Bond Motor Services, a modern-thinking Motor Dealership and Repair Centre with a focus on traditional values and Service. We offer competitive Vehicle Servicing, Mechanical Repairs, Tyre Services and MOTs. Bond motor Services undertake the servicing and repair of all makes and models of cars and vans. Established for more than 15 years, proprietor expects nothing but the best from his team of qualified Technicians, and will ensure that both you and your car receive the very best of service. From your first contact you can expect friendly and open discussion about your vehicle and any work required, at an agreed and competitive price- This level of service and communication will continue, keeping you fully informed right up to the point when your vehicle is ready for collection.
50 The High Street, Kingswood, Bristol, BS15 4AJ

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.