Service, Repairs & MOT

Gearbox repair in Reading

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 Reading

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

NK MOT LTD

4.6/5

At NK MOT Ltd we have experience in providing a comprehensive range of vehicle repairs and maintenance services as well as vehicle MOT tests to customers within the Reading area. We can undertake all classes of MOT’s, which include a free re-rest within the permitted time of 10 working days. Customer service is of paramount importance to us and we will only commence work once we have your consent. All work is undertaken using only OE parts and spares, at competitive prices. We have a team of 4 fully IMI qualified and experienced mechanics and engineers who can undertake all forms of mechanical repairs, maintenance work, servicing and MOT’s through to more complex engine rebuilds. All supplied and fitted parts come with a manufacturers guarantee, and we shall provide a labour guarantee to match this for your peace of mind. FREE vehicle collection and delivery is available for all local customers by appointment.
16 To 20 Longbarn Lane, Reading, RG27SZ

IN'n'OUT Autocentres Reading

4.4/5

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!!
Unit 6 Trade City, Sentinel End, Reading, RG20BF

MD Tyres & Auto Services

4.2/5

MD Tyres is a fully authorised, independent MOT station serving Reading and surrounding areas for both class 4 and class 7 vehicles. With a wealth of knowledge and experience, you can rely on professional testing set out by our fully qualified MOT testers. With state of the art equipment, we can work on all makes and models of cars, vans and light commercial vehicles. At MD Tyres in Reading we provide high-quality tyres at unbeatable prices! Some of the tyre brands include Bridgestone, Continental, Davanti, Dunlop, Goodyear, Michelin, Pirelli along with a broad range of quality mid-range and economy tyres.
47 Loverock Road, Reading, RG301DZ

WAC Automotive Engineers, Bosch Car Service

4.0/5

Based in the Reading area and comprising of Full Service, Repair and MOT garage and We offer Full Dealer Level Diagnostics, and Vehicle Body and Accident repair centre. We are just on the edge of Reading town centre in Suttons Business Park. The oldest company in the group is Car Gears, established in 1982 that specialise in manual and automatic Gearbox repairs and reconditioning. We also have a Auto Parts Trade Counter which operates at the Reading Counter supplying car and vehicle parts, oils Paint, Consumables and accessories to both the trade and public throughout Berkshire, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Surrey, Hampshire, Middlesex, Sussex, Wiltshire, and London. We Offer free collection and delivery to all our clients upto 50 mile radius from our Bosch Reading
49, Sutton Business Park, Suttons Park Avenue, Reading, RG61AZ

The Servicing Master Centre LTD

3.8/5

If you’re looking for a reliable Car Garage In Reading look no further, we are The Servicing Masters. We specialize in Servicing, Wheel alignment and tracking, Air Con recharge, MOT, Tyre, Body Work, Clutch and Fly Wheel, Water Pump,Timing Belt and all kinds of mechanical repair. No Fix, No Fee 12 Months Warranty Expert Repair Staff Spare Parts Supplies Free Collection & Delivery The Servicing Master is all about quality. From our technicians through to the parts and fluids we use. Whether you need us for a scheduled service or a repair you can leave your vehicle in our capable hands with confidence. Dec House, 145 Cardiff Road, Reading, RG1 8JF Mon – Sat: 10:00 – 20:00
181 Cardiff Road, Reading, RG18HD

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.