Gearboxes can be manual or automatic. Whilst in the UK the number of automatic vehicles is rising, the majority of cars are still manual. This is an important distinction to make as in this article we're going to talk about gearbox oil changes, their cost, why they’re important and even if you can perform them yourself.

What is gearbox oil?

You will find gearbox oil in a manual gearbox, its primary function is to lubricate and cool the internal components of the gearbox, ensuring smooth gear changes and extending the lifespan of these sensitive mechanical parts.
Without proper lubrication from gearbox oil, the metal gears inside your car's transmission would grind against each other and cause significant damage over time. This can lead to expensive repairs or even complete failure of the transmission system altogether.

What's the difference between gearbox oil and transmission fluid?

Gearbox oil is specifically designed for manual transmissions and helps lubricate gears and bearings while preventing corrosion and wear. Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) serves a similar function but also plays a role in hydraulic systems within an automatic transmission.
It's really important to note that you need to know what your car needs before you about trying to do a transmission fluid flush or gearbox oil change. As such, it's always best to consult with a trusted mechanic or refer to your owner's manual when selecting which type of oil to use during an oil change.

How much does it cost to change gearbox oil in the UK?

The average cost of a gearbox oil change in the UK is between £60-120. It can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of vehicle you own and where you take it for servicing.
One significant factor is the brand or model of your car. Luxury cars with high-end gearboxes tend to cost more than standard models due to their intricate components.
Another factor affecting price is whether you take your vehicle to an independent garage or dealership for servicing. Independent garages are usually cheaper than dealerships since they have lower overheads and fewer staff members typically work there.
Dealerships' pricing tends to be higher due to their reputation as specialists in specific brands; hence they may use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts which are typically more expensive than aftermarket parts used by independent garages.
In summary, if you need a gearbox oil change in the UK, expect some variation in prices based on various factors such as car model and where you decide to get it serviced - either at an independent garage or dealership. 

If you're worried about the cost of your gearbox oil change, even though you know you need to get it done, consider Bumper. Bumper is changing the world of car repair finance with 0% interest-free monthly instalments. 

The average cost for gearbox oil changes by car make

• Audi Gearbox Oil Change Cost: £100-110
• Toyota Gearbox Oil Change Cost: £70-80
• Honda Gearbox Oil Change Cost: £75
• Ford Gearbox Oil Change Cost: £85-95
• BMW Gearbox Oil Change Cost: £80-85
• Mazda Gearbox Oil Change Cost: £85-100
• Mercedes Gearbox Oil Change Cost: £90-100
• Toyota Gearbox Oil Change Cost: £75-80
• Vauxhall Gearbox Oil Change Cost: £70-80
• Volkswagen Gearbox Oil Change Cost: £90
• Volvo Gearbox Oil Change Cost: £65-75

Benefits of changing your manual gearbox oil

Regular maintenance and inspections are vital for the smooth functioning of any vehicle. A gearbox oil change is a crucial part of this regular maintenance process. Not only does it improve the performance and efficiency of your car, but it also extends the lifespan of your gearbox significantly.
Regularly changing your gearbox oil reduces the risk of breakdowns and costly repairs, as it helps to prevent wear and tear on gears caused by friction between metal parts. Additionally, fresh oil ensures that all moving parts within your gearbox remain lubricated properly, which ultimately reduces heat buildup that can cause damage to internal components.
Moreover, if you neglect proper maintenance procedures such as gearbox oil changes over time, not only will you have to pay for more expensive repairs or replacements later down the line - but also experience reduced fuel efficiency due to decreased performance from an ageing transmission system.
Therefore, keeping up with regular maintenance checks like gearbox oil changes in addition to regular servicing schedules can save you money in the long run while ensuring that your vehicle continues running smoothly without any unexpected surprises along its journey on UK roads!

How often should you change the gearbox oil?

When it comes to changing the gearbox oil in your vehicle, there are some recommended guidelines that you should follow. Most manufacturers suggest that you change your gearbox oil every 50,000 miles or five years, whichever comes first. However, if you frequently drive in harsh conditions such as stop-and-go traffic or extreme temperatures, it may be necessary to change the oil more frequently.
There are also certain factors that may require more frequent oil changes. For example, if your vehicle is used for towing heavy loads or off-roading on a regular basis, this can put additional strain on the gearbox and cause accelerated wear and tear. In these cases, it's recommended to change the gearbox oil at least every 30,000 miles or three years.

How to extend the life of gearbox oil

One easy tip is to avoid harsh driving habits like sudden stops or starts, which can cause excessive wear on both the gears themselves and the lubricant protecting them.
Regularly checking for leaks or other signs of damage is also crucial when it comes to preserving your gearbox's health. If you notice any unusual noises or vibrations while driving, don't hesitate to take your car to a mechanic for inspection - catching problems early on can save you money down the line.
Finally, always use high-quality oils specifically designed for use in gearboxes. While cheaper options may seem tempting at first glance, they often lack essential additives that protect against wear and tear over time.
By following these simple tips and tricks for keeping gearbox oil in good condition, you'll be able to extend its lifespan while ensuring optimal performance from your vehicle overall.

Can I change my gearbox oil myself?

If you're interested in changing your gearbox oil yourself, it's important to know the necessary steps and tools needed for a successful DIY project.

1. First, ensure you have the correct type of oil for your vehicle's transmission. Consult your owner's manual or a trusted mechanic if you're unsure which type is best.
2. Next, find a suitable location to perform the oil change. Ideally, this should be on level ground with enough space to move around comfortably under your car. You'll also need ramps or jack stands to lift your vehicle off the ground safely.
3. Once you've gathered all the necessary equipment and found an appropriate workspace, it's time to begin draining the old oil from your gearbox. This may involve removing bolts or plugs from various parts of the transmission system, so refer to repair manuals or online resources for specific instructions regarding your particular make and model.
4. After draining out all used fluid completely, this usually takes anywhere between 20 minutes up to an hour, you can then replace any gaskets or filters as needed before filling up with fresh lubricant.
5. When filling back up with new gear oil ensure that the fill-port hole has been fully sealed after topping up.
6. Finally, run the engine briefly while the shift-lever is cycled through each gear (including the reverse) at least once - this will help circulate new fluid into every part of the system before test-driving the car again later on!

Low manual gearbox oil symptoms

• There are a few signs that indicate your gearbox oil is low or needs changing.
  The first sign to look out for is difficulty in shifting gears. If you notice that it's harder than usual to shift gears, this could be due to the lack of lubrication caused by low or dirty gearbox oil.
• Another sign is strange noises coming from the transmission system, such as grinding or whining sounds. This can also occur if there isn't enough oil in the gearbox and parts start rubbing against each other.
• A burning smell when driving may also indicate an issue with your gearbox oil. This smell usually arises when there's friction between metal components because of insufficient lubrication, which leads to excessive heat generation and subsequent burning odours.
• You might also feel some vibrations while driving if the gearbox oil level is low.

If any of these symptoms arise, you should take action promptly before more significant issues develop within your vehicle's transmission system. Regularly checking and replacing your gearbox oil will help keep your car running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the line.

Is dirty gearbox oil an MOT failure?

When it comes to the MOT test, dirty gearbox oil in itself is not an automatic failure. However, if the condition of your gearbox oil is deemed to be a risk to road safety or environmental standards, then this could result in an MOT failure.
The tester will check for signs of contamination and degradation of the oil, which can affect its ability to lubricate and protect the gears within the transmission system. It's always recommended to keep on top of regular maintenance checks and have your gearbox oil changed at manufacturer-recommended intervals - this will help ensure that your vehicle passes its MOT with no issues related to gearbox problems.

Can I still drive with bad gearbox oil?

If you continue driving with bad gearbox oil, it can also lead to more serious issues such as a complete breakdown of your transmission system. This will require costly repairs or even a full replacement, depending on how severe the damage is.
Therefore, if you suspect that there might be something wrong with your gearbox oil, it's important to stop driving immediately and seek professional help. A mechanic will be able to diagnose any issues with your transmission system and recommend whether a simple fluid flush could resolve the issue or if any further repairs are necessary.
In conclusion, ignoring problems with gearbox oil could result in severe consequences down the line - including costly repair bills - so getting professional help at an early stage provides peace of mind while ensuring long-term safety on roads.
Search for a reliable repairer in your area by entering your registration and postcode with Bumper and you can split the bill into interest-free monthly payments.

Author - Joseph Law

Joseph has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his five cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.