Gearbox Repairs in Buckfast

Buckfast is a village beside the Abbey, close to the A38 and the town of Buckfastleigh on the edge of Dartmoor. There is plenty of visitor traffic, so a car with a failing gearbox is likely to meet a lot of stop-start driving that shows up any weakness.

Automaster, at Longcombe Cross near Totnes, deals with manual gearbox repairs, replacement units, servicing and driveline faults. We try to keep things plain: here are the warning signs, how we work out the cause and how to describe the problem when asking for a quote.

Which gearbox symptoms should Buckfast drivers not ignore?

Do not ignore a whine, a growl or a graunch when changing gear. These noises rarely go away alone. A gear that suddenly feels stiff, or oil drips where you park, deserve attention too.

Stop-start driving in busy traffic wears gearbox and clutch components faster, so a symptom that seemed minor in the quiet can turn into a bigger repair after a busy season of visitors.

• Graunching on changes
• Stiff or notchy lever
• Oil spots on the ground

What is wrong if gears graunch when I change?

Graunching usually points to worn synchromesh rings, which let the gears mesh smoothly. It might also be a clutch that is not releasing cleanly, which feels very similar from the driver's seat.

Only then do we say whether the gearbox needs opening up.

What does a clicking CV joint sound like?

It is a rhythmic clicking or snapping noise, loudest when you turn the wheel hard to one side. The faster you drive the faster it clicks. Splits in the rubber gaiter let grease out and dirt in, which ruins the joint.

If you catch a torn gaiter early the joint may still be fine. Left alone it will wear out and may need replacing, so we inspect both the boots and joints.

Will you repair my gearbox or fit a replacement?

That is decided after diagnosis. A leak, worn linkage or a faulty selector may be repairable. If the casing or internal gears are badly damaged, a replacement can be the more sensible route.

Several things drive the cost: what has failed, the parts involved, labour to remove and refit the unit and whether the clutch should be renewed at the same time. We never promise a repair is possible until we have inspected.

Where do I bring my car from Buckfast?

Automaster is at Longcombe Cross near Totnes. Drivers come from Buckfast, Buckfastleigh, Holne, South Brent and the surrounding area to have gearbox work done.

Before you arrive, describe the symptoms and ask for a quote. Tell us the make, model, engine and registration, and whether the problem happens when hot, cold, turning or accelerating.