Gearbox Repairs in Pear Tree

Pear Tree is a small rural hamlet in South Devon, reached by narrow country lanes, with Totnes, Dartington, Paignton and Churston all in the neighbourhood. Country driving puts a manual gearbox through frequent changes and tight turns.

Automaster is at Longcombe Cross near Totnes, and drivers from the surrounding countryside come to us for manual gearbox repair, replacement, servicing, differential repairs, CV joints and driveshafts.

What are the symptoms of a failing manual gearbox?

Common signs include whining, crunching or graunching as you change gear, a stiff or notchy lever, oil leaks and a car that jumps out of gear. They can start subtly and worsen over weeks.

If drive is lost or the car refuses to stay in gear, do not keep driving it.

Keep an eye on the gearbox area for fresh oil, and mention when you first noticed the problem. Early information makes a real difference to how quickly we can pin the fault down.

• Whining or humming
• Crunching on changes
• Notchy, stiff lever
• Jumping out of gear
• Oil leaks

Why is diagnosis the first step?

Gearbox faults, clutch faults and driveline faults can feel alike, so we trace the source before quoting. A worn clutch in particular is often mistaken for a gearbox problem.

We would rather confirm the real cause than replace something that was working.

Gearbox repair or replacement: what is the difference?

Repair means dealing with specific worn parts such as bearings, seals or synchromesh. Replacement means fitting another gearbox unit. Which suits your car depends on the extent of the damage, and we cannot promise a repair without inspection.

Cost is driven by the model, the labour to remove and refit the box, the parts and any clutch work. Ask for a quote once we know what is involved.

Yes. Wheel bearings, tyres and the exhaust can all make noises that seem to come from the gearbox. If it turns out not to be the gearbox, we will say so.

What do clicking CV joints and vibrating driveshafts mean?

A regular click on full lock usually means a worn outer CV joint, often after the rubber gaiter splits. A vibration under power can come from an inner joint or a damaged driveshaft. A whine or clunk that follows the drive might involve the differential.

We inspect each part and explain what we find.

Do you cover Pear Tree, and where should I bring the car?

Yes. Bring your car to Automaster at Longcombe Cross, Longcombe, near Totnes. Hamlet and village drivers from the countryside around Totnes and Dartington are welcome, as are drivers from Paignton and Churston.

Tell us your vehicle and what you are noticing when you contact us.