Gearbox Repairs in Heathfield

Heathfield is a busy spot. The A38 and A382 run beside it, there is an industrial estate, and a steady stream of traffic passes between Newton Abbot and Bovey Tracey. Cars here spend a lot of time pulling away from junctions and queuing, and the gearbox takes the strain.

If you drive in and out of Heathfield every day, a small gearbox fault will not stay small. Automaster, at Longcombe Cross near Totnes, deals with manual gearbox repair, gearbox replacement, transmission diagnostics, differentials, CV joints and driveshafts.

Why does my gearbox whine or graunch?

A whine usually points to a worn bearing or gear, or to low oil. A graunch as you change gear can mean worn synchromesh, or a clutch that is not clearing properly. Which it is depends on the car and which gear misbehaves.

Frequent junction work and slow queues put a lot of load on first and second gears, so those are often where wear appears first.

• Whining in first or second
• Graunch on a quick downshift
• Oil on the underside of the gearbox
• Gear lever vibration

Is the clutch to blame instead?

Possibly. A clutch that is worn or sticking can feel like a gearbox problem: hard to get into gear, graunching into first or reverse, or revs climbing without the car keeping up. In heavy through traffic you may notice it when pulling away.

We check the clutch and gearbox together so that the right component is fixed and nothing is replaced needlessly.

What decides whether the gearbox is repaired or replaced?

Once the car has been inspected we can say what has failed and whether a repair is realistic. Some faults, such as worn seals or bearings, can be dealt with by repair. Bigger internal damage can make replacement the better option.

Cost depends on the vehicle, the work needed to remove the gearbox, the parts, and whether you choose to renew the clutch while the car is apart. Ask for a quote and we will lay out the choices.

What are the signs of CV joint and driveshaft wear?

Clicking or knocking on tight turns suggests a worn outer CV joint. Vibration when accelerating can point to an inner joint or driveshaft. A torn gaiter showing grease around the wheel is a warning to have it checked.

We also assess differential noises, such as whines or clunks, which can feel similar from the cabin.

Can Heathfield drivers bring their cars to you?

Yes. Automaster is at Longcombe Cross, Longcombe, near Totnes.

If you use your vehicle for work and cannot afford to lose it unexpectedly, tell us when you get in touch so we can talk about what to do first.