Gearbox and clutchUrgency: As soon as possible
Gearbox will not select gears or drops into neutral: causes and the faults that trigger it
If the gears won't go in with the engine running but do go in with the engine off, the sources point first to the clutch (disc, hydraulic circuit, cable) rather than the gearbox. If only one particular gear fails or grinds when you select it, a worn synchroniser is the usual culprit. In an automatic, a gear that won't engage together with a warning light is a sign of a serious fault: RACE (Spain's motoring club) advises against driving on.[1][2][3][4]
21 documented faults cause it in 18 engines. The most important:
- High severity: Mechatronic unit failure: pressure accumulator, pump and cracked housing · DSG7 DQ200
- High severity: Clutch pressure plate breakage (2018 and 2019 recalls on the Focus and C-MAX) · PowerShift
- High severity: Control unit (TCU) failure and limp mode · Multitronic
What to do now
As soon as possible
This is a risk on the road: stop the car somewhere safe and call for assistance. Do not try to force the gearbox.
What it means
The gearbox stops engaging some gears, suddenly drops into neutral or will not let you pull away. On automatic gearboxes it usually points to a hydraulic pressure fault or to the mechatronic unit.
General explanation from MotorFiable. How it shows up in each engine, with sources, is in the list of faults.
Most common causes
From most to least likely according to the sources. Under each cause, the part and the related OBD codes.
1. Clutch that doesn't disengage properly
Common causeRACE and Motor.es put the clutch among the first suspects: a worn disc or a damaged release bearing stops the engine's rotation being separated from the gearbox, so the gear grinds or won't go in. RACE suggests a simple test: with the engine off, if the gears go in properly, the fault usually lies in the clutch.[1][2]
2. Leak or low fluid in the hydraulic clutch (cylinder)
Common causeIn hydraulic clutches, which use the same fluid as the brakes, a leak in the cylinder or low fluid means there isn't enough pressure to disengage the clutch. RACE, Motor.es and Mapfre all mention this. RACE adds that if the pedal doesn't return to its position, the cause may be a leak in the slave cylinder.[1][2][5][6]
3. Clutch cable or linkage that is slack or broken
Possible causeRACE points out that on older cars a broken or damaged clutch cable doesn't create the tension needed to disengage the clutch, and that the linkage loses adjustment over the years. Motor.es and Mapfre agree: wear changes the geometry of the transmission and the gear change becomes imprecise. RACE also names misadjusted gear-change cables as a reason for gears not going in.[1][2][5][7]
4. Worn synchroniser (one particular gear fails)
Possible causeRACE describes a worn synchroniser as the one that makes a specific gear grind repeatedly, feel more resistant than the others or make metallic noises when selected. Mapfre adds that damaged teeth usually affect just one gear, with a grinding noise and strong vibration in the lever. If only one or two gears fail, the cause is probably inside the gearbox.[1][3][5]
5. Low gearbox oil or the wrong oil
Possible causeRACE and Mapfre link a low level, or oil of the wrong viscosity, to gears that are hard to select, a stiff or loose lever and greater wear on the gears. RACE recommends changing the oil in a manual gearbox every 80,000-100,000 km and using gearbox oil, not engine oil.[5][7][8]
6. Automatic: oil, hydraulic pressure or electrohydraulic unit
Common causeFor an automatic gearbox, RACE's technical adviser lists lack of lubrication, a worn clutch disc, problems with the electrohydraulic unit, low battery voltage, leaks in the hydraulic circuit, torque converter failure (the car doesn't get past second gear) or a broken part inside the gearbox. Another RACE article cites a mechatronic unit clogged by dirty oil as a common fault.[4][9]
Faults with with the automatic gearboxFaults with with the mechatronic unitP0700P0868
7. Dual-clutch or robotised gearbox: sensors, actuators and mechatronics
Possible causeFor dual-clutch gearboxes, RACE cites failures of sensors and wiring (wrong gear or limp mode), of actuators and selector forks (noise or difficulty engaging) and of the lubrication circuit (low level, leaks or degraded oil), as well as of the mechatronic unit itself.[10]
Faults with with the dual-clutch gearboxFaults with with the automated manual gearboxFaults with with the mechatronic unit
Depending on what you notice
Gears won't go in with the engine running
This is the classic clutch case: RACE explains that if they go in with the engine off but stop going in once you start it, the clutch isn't separating the engine's rotation from the gearbox properly. Check the fluid (in many cars it shares a reservoir with the brakes) and, on older cars, the cable. Mapfre adds the leaking cylinder and the worn disc.[1][5]
Only one gear fails or it grinds when selected
RACE and Mapfre associate a particular gear that grinds, scrapes or sticks with a synchroniser or damaged teeth inside the gearbox. RACE warns that other factors, such as the clutch, the selector or the lubricant, produce similar symptoms and that noise alone isn't enough to diagnose the problem.[3][5]
The lever is stiff or loose and gears are hard to select
RACE puts burnt or low oil, misadjusted gear-change cables, a clutch connection problem or the wrong viscosity behind a stiff lever. A loose lever that drops the gear back into neutral may be due to parts with play, low oil or a leak in the gearbox.[7][11]
Automatic that won't engage and lights up a warning light
RACE points out that when the gears won't go in on an automatic and a warning light appears on the dashboard, normally red or amber, it indicates a major mechanical problem and you should not keep driving: call breakdown assistance. It also cites the torque converter as a cause when the car doesn't get past second gear.[4]
Drops into neutral or goes into limp mode
On dual-clutch gearboxes, RACE includes wrong gear selection or limp mode among the sensor and wiring failures, and a slow-to-engage gear, a dashboard warning light or metallic noises among the symptoms. Reading the fault codes is the first step, because the symptoms alone don't identify the part.[10]
What to check first
- With the car stationary and the engine off, try the gears: if they go in properly, the fault usually lies in the clutch and not the gearbox (a test suggested by RACE).[1]
- See whether the clutch pedal goes all the way down normally and comes back up, and check the level in the brake and clutch fluid reservoir for leaks, as Motor.es recommends.[1][2]
- On an older car, ask for the clutch cable and linkage, or the gear-change cables and their adjustment, to be checked.[1][7]
- Check the level and condition of the gearbox oil (smell of burning, noise in neutral, stains under the car) and that it is the oil the manufacturer specifies.[7][8]
- If it is an automatic or dual-clutch, ask for a fault-code scan of the gearbox before repairing anything: the symptoms alone don't show which part is failing.[4][10]
Can I keep driving?
Urgency: As soon as possible
Don't force the lever. RACE warns that selecting a gear with the engine running without pressing the clutch badly wears the teeth of the gears, and Mapfre says that forcing the gear change can cause more serious damage. On an automatic with a warning light on, RACE says you should not keep driving and should call roadside assistance. On a manual with a doubtful clutch, the sources recommend going to a garage without delay, but none gives a mileage limit.[1][4][5]
How much it costs to fix
Indicative prices published by the sources cited; they depend on the car and the garage.
Documented faults that cause it
Specific engine and gearbox faults, from most to least important (severity × frequency). Below each title, how the symptom shows up in that fault.
Source for the symptom in the DSG7 DQ200[12]
Source for the symptom in the PowerShift[13]
Source for the symptom in the Multitronic[14]
Source for the symptom in the 1.2 / 1.4 / 1.8 i-VTEC[15]
Source for the symptom in the ZF 6HP[20]
Source for the symptom in the DSG6 DQ250[21]
Source for the symptom in the EAT6/EAT8[22]
Source for the symptom in the EDC[23]
Source for the symptom in the Dualogic[24]
Source for the symptom in the 7G-DCT[25]
Source for the symptom in the AL4 / DP0[26]
Source for the symptom in the DSG7 DQ381/DQ500[27]
Source for the symptom in the ZF 8HP[28]
Source for the symptom in the DSG7 DQ200[29]
Source for the symptom in the 7G-Tronic / 9G-Tronic[30][31][32]
Source for the symptom in the 1.4 D-4D[33]
Source for the symptom in the 1.0/1.2/1.4 Ecotec[34]
Source for the symptom in the 7G-DCT[25]
Faults elsewhere in the car that cause it
Suspension, brake, electronics and other faults on specific cars, from most to least important.
Source for the symptom in the Hyundai Tucson III[35]
Source for the symptom in the Opel Astra J[36]
Source for the symptom in the Peugeot 308 III[38]
Source for the symptom in the Peugeot 408[38]
Source for the symptom in the Renault Austral[40]
Source for the symptom in the Suzuki Grand Vitara II[44][45]
Source for the symptom in the Volkswagen Touran I[46]
Source for the symptom in the Fiat 500X[47]
Source for the symptom in the Honda Civic VIII[48]
Source for the symptom in the BMW Serie 2 Active Tourer F45[51]
Source for the symptom in the Citroën C4 Picasso I[52]
Source for the symptom in the Dacia Jogger[53]
Source for the symptom in the Dacia Sandero III[54]
Source for the symptom in the Ford Fiesta V[57]
Source for the symptom in the Ford S-Max II[58]
Source for the symptom in the Hyundai Santa Fe I[61]
Source for the symptom in the Hyundai Tucson IV[62]
Source for the symptom in the Kia Sportage III[65]
Source for the symptom in the Kia Sportage V[66]
Source for the symptom in the Mercedes-Benz Citan W420[67][68]
Source for the symptom in the Nissan Almera II[69]
Source for the symptom in the Nissan Juke I[70]
Source for the symptom in the Opel Astra H[71]
Source for the symptom in the Opel Zafira B[72]
Source for the symptom in the Peugeot 308 I[73]
Source for the symptom in the Porsche Cayenne I[74]
Source for the symptom in the Renault Arkana[19]
Source for the symptom in the Renault Captur I[75]
Source for the symptom in the Renault Kangoo II[76]
Source for the symptom in the Toyota Auris I[80]
Source for the symptom in the Volkswagen Golf IV[81]
Source for the symptom in the Volkswagen Polo IV[82]
Source for the symptom in the Alfa Romeo 159[83]
Source for the symptom in the Alfa Romeo MiTo[84]
Source for the symptom in the BMW X2 F39[85]
Source for the symptom in the BMW Z4 E85/E86[86]
Source for the symptom in the Citroën Berlingo III[87]
Source for the symptom in the Citroën C3 I[88]
Source for the symptom in the Citroën C3 Picasso[89]
Source for the symptom in the Dacia Logan II[90]
Source for the symptom in the Fiat Punto III[91]
Source for the symptom in the Ford Fusion[92]
Source for the symptom in the Hyundai Kona II[93]
Source for the symptom in the Jeep Avenger[94]
Source for the symptom in the Kia Picanto I[95]
Source for the symptom in the Kia Rio IV[96]
Source for the symptom in the Mazda 2 I[99]
Source for the symptom in the Mazda 6 II[100]
Source for the symptom in the Mitsubishi Colt VI[101]
Source for the symptom in the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross I[102]
Source for the symptom in the Opel Cascada[103]
Source for the symptom in the Opel Meriva A[104]
Source for the symptom in the Peugeot 207[107]
Source for the symptom in the Renault Kangoo I[108]
Source for the symptom in the Renault Modus[109]
Source for the symptom in the Renault Trafic II[106]
Source for the symptom in the Renault Twingo III[112]
Source for the symptom in the Seat Ibiza IV[113]
Source for the symptom in the Seat Toledo II[114]
Source for the symptom in the Suzuki Ignis I[115]
Source for the symptom in the Suzuki Splash[116]
Source for the symptom in the Suzuki Swift III[117]
Source for the symptom in the Suzuki Swift IV[118]
Source for the symptom in the Volkswagen Polo V[119]
Source for the symptom in the Volvo S40 II[120]
Source for the symptom in the Volvo S80 II[121]
Source for the symptom in the Volvo V50[120]
Source for the symptom in the Volvo V70 III[122]
Source for the symptom in the Volvo XC70 III[122]
Source for the symptom in the Volvo XC90 I[123]
Source for the symptom in the Citroën C3 Aircross II[126]
Source for the symptom in the Citroën C3 IV[127]
Source for the symptom in the Fiat 500[128]
Source for the symptom in the Fiat Tipo[129]
Source for the symptom in the Ford Kuga II[130]
Source for the symptom in the Peugeot 2008 I[131]
Source for the symptom in the Renault Clio V[18]
Source for the symptom in the Renault Scénic IV[132]
Source for the symptom in the Seat León I[133]
Source for the symptom in the Alfa Romeo 147[134]
Source for the symptom in the Alfa Romeo Junior[135]
Source for the symptom in the Fiat Sedici[136]
Source for the symptom in the Ford Ka+[137]
Source for the symptom in the Hyundai i20 III[140]
Source for the symptom in the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter T1N[141]
Source for the symptom in the Nissan Primastar[106]
Source for the symptom in the Škoda Fabia III[142]
Source for the symptom in the Toyota Avensis T27[143]
Source for the symptom in the Suzuki SX4[144]
Which cars it appears in
These faults affect 18 engines. We have documented 202 models from 27 makes with some of the affected versions: open yours to see all its faults.
Engines
- DSG7 DQ200Volkswagen, Seat, Škoda and Audi2 faults with this symptom
- PowerShiftFord1 fault with this symptom
- MultitronicAudi and Seat1 fault with this symptom
- 1.2 / 1.4 / 1.8 i-VTECHonda1 fault with this symptom
- 7DCTHyundai and Kia2 faults with this symptom
- E-Tech HíbridoRenault and Dacia1 fault with this symptom
- ZF 6HPBMW, Audi, Land Rover and Jaguar1 fault with this symptom
- DSG6 DQ250Volkswagen, Seat, Škoda and Audi1 fault with this symptom
- EAT6/EAT8Peugeot, Citroën, DS and Opel1 fault with this symptom
- EDCRenault and Dacia1 fault with this symptom
- DualogicFiat and Lancia1 fault with this symptom
- 7G-DCTMercedes-Benz2 faults with this symptom
- AL4 / DP0Peugeot, Citroën and Renault1 fault with this symptom
- DSG7 DQ381/DQ500Volkswagen, Seat and Škoda1 fault with this symptom
- ZF 8HPBMW, Audi, Jaguar, Land Rover, Alfa Romeo and Jeep1 fault with this symptom
- 7G-Tronic / 9G-TronicMercedes-Benz1 fault with this symptom
- 1.4 D-4DToyota and MINI1 fault with this symptom
- 1.0/1.2/1.4 EcotecOpel and Vauxhall1 fault with this symptom
Cars with the affected versions
Audi
- Audi A1 IEngine: DSG7 DQ200Years: 2010–2018
- Audi A1 IIEngine: DSG7 DQ200Years: since 2018
- Audi A3 IIEngines: DSG7 DQ200 · DSG6 DQ250Years: 2003–2012
- Audi A3 IIIEngines: DSG7 DQ200 · DSG6 DQ250Years: 2012–2020
- Audi A3 IVEngine: DSG7 DQ200Years: since 2020
- Audi A4 B6Engine: MultitronicYears: 2000–2004
- Audi A4 B7Engine: MultitronicYears: 2004–2007
- Audi A4 B8Engine: MultitronicYears: 2007–2011
BMW
- BMW Serie 1 F20Engine: ZF 8HPYears: 2012–2019
- BMW Serie 3 E90Engine: ZF 6HPYears: 2005–2012
- BMW Serie 3 F30Engine: ZF 8HPYears: 2012–2019
- BMW Serie 3 G20Engine: ZF 8HPYears: since 2019
- BMW Serie 5 E60Engine: ZF 6HPYears: 2003–2010
- BMW Serie 5 F10Engine: ZF 8HPYears: 2010–2017
- BMW Serie 5 G30Engine: ZF 8HPYears: 2017–2023
- BMW Serie 7 F01Engine: ZF 8HPYears: 2008–2015
Citroën
Dacia
Fiat
- Fiat 500Engine: DualogicYears: 2007–2024
- Fiat Doblò IIEngine: DualogicYears: 2010–2022
- Fiat Panda IIEngine: DualogicYears: 2004–2010
- Fiat Panda IIIEngine: DualogicYears: since 2012
- Fiat Punto IIEngine: DualogicYears: 2003
- Fiat Punto IIIEngine: DualogicYears: 2005–2018
- Fiat QuboEngine: DualogicYears: 2008–2019
Ford
Honda
Hyundai
- Hyundai BayonEngine: 7DCTYears: since 2021
- Hyundai i20 IIEngine: 7DCTYears: 2018–2020
- Hyundai i20 IIIEngine: 7DCTYears: since 2020
- Hyundai i30 IIEngine: 7DCTYears: 2015–2017
- Hyundai i30 IIIEngine: 7DCTYears: since 2017
- Hyundai Kona IEngine: 7DCTYears: 2017–2023
- Hyundai Tucson IIIEngine: 7DCTYears: 2015–2020
- Hyundai Tucson IVEngine: 7DCTYears: since 2020
Jaguar
Kia
Lancia
Land Rover
Mercedes-Benz
- Mercedes-Benz CLA C117Engine: 7G-DCTYears: 2013–2019
- Mercedes-Benz CLA C118Engine: 7G-DCTYears: since 2019
- Mercedes-Benz Clase A W176Engine: 7G-DCTYears: 2012–2018
- Mercedes-Benz Clase A W177Engine: 7G-DCTYears: since 2018
- Mercedes-Benz Clase B W246Engine: 7G-DCTYears: 2012–2018
- Mercedes-Benz Clase B W247Engine: 7G-DCTYears: since 2018
- Mercedes-Benz Clase C W204Engine: 7G-Tronic / 9G-TronicYears: 2007–2014
- Mercedes-Benz Clase C W205Engine: 7G-Tronic / 9G-TronicYears: 2014–2021
Opel
- Opel AdamEngine: 1.0/1.2/1.4 EcotecYears: 2012–2019
- Opel Astra HEngine: 1.0/1.2/1.4 EcotecYears: 2004–2009
- Opel Astra JEngine: 1.0/1.2/1.4 EcotecYears: 2009–2015
- Opel Corsa CEngine: 1.0/1.2/1.4 EcotecYears: 2003–2006
- Opel Corsa DEngine: 1.0/1.2/1.4 EcotecYears: 2006–2014
- Opel Corsa EEngine: 1.0/1.2/1.4 EcotecYears: 2014–2019
- Opel Grandland IEngine: EAT6/EAT8Years: 2017–2024
- Opel Meriva AEngine: 1.0/1.2/1.4 EcotecYears: 2003–2010
Peugeot
- Peugeot 206Engine: AL4 / DP0Years: 1998–2010
- Peugeot 207Engine: AL4 / DP0Years: 2006–2014
- Peugeot 308 IIEngine: EAT6/EAT8Years: 2014–2021
- Peugeot 308 IIIEngine: EAT6/EAT8Years: since 2021
- Peugeot 508 IIEngine: EAT6/EAT8Years: since 2018
- Peugeot 2008 IIEngine: EAT6/EAT8Years: since 2019
- Peugeot 3008 IIEngine: EAT6/EAT8Years: 2016–2023
- Peugeot 5008 IIEngine: EAT6/EAT8Years: 2017–2023
Renault
- Renault ArkanaEngine: E-Tech HíbridoYears: since 2020
- Renault AustralEngine: E-Tech HíbridoYears: since 2022
- Renault Captur IEngine: EDCYears: 2013–2019
- Renault Captur IIEngines: E-Tech Híbrido · EDCYears: since 2019
- Renault Clio IIEngine: AL4 / DP0Years: 1998–2012
- Renault Clio IIIEngine: AL4 / DP0Years: 2005–2012
- Renault Clio IVEngine: EDCYears: 2012–2019
- Renault Clio VEngines: E-Tech Híbrido · EDCYears: since 2019
Seat
- Seat AlteaEngine: DSG7 DQ200Years: 2008–2015
- Seat AronaEngine: DSG7 DQ200Years: since 2017
- Seat AtecaEngine: DSG7 DQ200Years: since 2016
- Seat ExeoEngine: MultitronicYears: 2008–2013
- Seat Ibiza IVEngine: DSG7 DQ200Years: 2008–2017
- Seat Ibiza VEngine: DSG7 DQ200Years: since 2017
- Seat León IIEngines: DSG7 DQ200 · DSG6 DQ250Years: 2006–2012
- Seat León IIIEngines: DSG7 DQ200 · DSG6 DQ250Years: 2012–2020
Škoda
- Škoda Fabia IIEngine: DSG7 DQ200Years: 2008–2014
- Škoda Fabia IIIEngine: DSG7 DQ200Years: 2014–2021
- Škoda Fabia IVEngine: DSG7 DQ200Years: since 2021
- Škoda KamiqEngine: DSG7 DQ200Years: since 2019
- Škoda KaroqEngine: DSG7 DQ200Years: since 2017
- Škoda Kodiaq IEngine: DSG7 DQ381/DQ500Years: 2017–2024
- Škoda Octavia IIEngines: DSG7 DQ200 · DSG6 DQ250Years: 2005–2013
- Škoda Octavia IIIEngines: DSG7 DQ200 · DSG6 DQ250Years: 2013–2020
Toyota
- Toyota Auris IEngine: 1.4 D-4DYears: 2006–2012
- Toyota Auris IIEngine: 1.4 D-4DYears: 2012–2018
- Toyota Corolla IXEngine: 1.4 D-4DYears: 2004–2007
- Toyota Urban CruiserEngine: 1.4 D-4DYears: 2008–2014
- Toyota Verso-SEngine: 1.4 D-4DYears: 2010–2017
- Toyota Yaris IEngine: 1.4 D-4DYears: 2002–2005
- Toyota Yaris IIEngine: 1.4 D-4DYears: 2005–2011
Volkswagen
- Volkswagen Amarok IEngine: ZF 8HPYears: 2012–2020
- Volkswagen ArteonEngine: DSG7 DQ381/DQ500Years: 2017–2023
- Volkswagen Beetle IIEngines: DSG7 DQ200 · DSG6 DQ250Years: 2011–2019
- Volkswagen Caddy IIIEngines: DSG7 DQ200 · DSG6 DQ250Years: 2008–2020
- Volkswagen Golf VEngine: DSG6 DQ250Years: 2004–2008
- Volkswagen Golf VIEngines: DSG7 DQ200 · DSG6 DQ250Years: 2008–2012
- Volkswagen Golf VIIEngines: DSG7 DQ200 · DSG6 DQ250 · DSG7 DQ381/DQ500Years: 2012–2020
- Volkswagen Golf VIIIEngines: DSG7 DQ200 · DSG7 DQ381/DQ500Years: since 2019
Gears will not engage: causes in your car
280 cars have several documented faults that cause this symptom. Choose yours to see only those that affect it, by engine and by year.
Audi 19
BMW 19
Chevrolet 1
Chrysler 2
Citroën 11
Fiat 11
Ford 11
Hyundai 12
Kia 10
Lotus 1
Mazda 2
Mercedes-Benz 23
- Mercedes-Benz Citan W420
- Mercedes-Benz CLA C117
- Mercedes-Benz CLA C118
- Mercedes-Benz Clase A W176
- Mercedes-Benz Clase A W177
- Mercedes-Benz Clase B W246
- Mercedes-Benz Clase B W247
- Mercedes-Benz Clase C W204
- Mercedes-Benz Clase C W205
- Mercedes-Benz Clase E W212
- Mercedes-Benz Clase E W213
- Mercedes-Benz Clase M W164
- See the 23 Mercedes-Benz models
MINI 1
Mitsubishi 2
Opel 13
Peugeot 12
Porsche 1
Renault 26
Seat 14
Škoda 13
Smart 1
Toyota 8
Volkswagen 27
Gears will not engage by brand
Fault codes that may go with it
If you have an OBD reader, the code stored by the control unit helps you work out which system is failing.
- P0700Transmission control system fault (MIL request)
- P0717No signal from the gearbox input speed sensor
- P0720Automatic gearbox output speed sensor
- P0730Incorrect gear ratio in the automatic gearbox
- P0750Automatic gearbox shift solenoid A fault
- P0841Gearbox oil pressure sensor A out of range
- P0882Low power supply to the gearbox control unit (TCM)
Frequently asked questions
Why won't the gears go in with the engine running but do when it is off?
According to RACE, it means the clutch isn't separating the engine from the gearbox properly. The usual causes cited by RACE, Motor.es and Mapfre are a worn disc, the release bearing, a fluid leak in the cylinder, the clutch cable (older cars) or play in the linkage.[1][2][5]
Can you keep driving if the car won't go into a gear?
The sources set no mileage limit. Mapfre and RACE advise against forcing the gears because of the damage this can cause to the gears, and RACE says to go to a garage. On an automatic with a warning light on, RACE states outright that you should not keep driving.[1][4][5]
What is a synchroniser and how do I know if it is worn?
It is the part that matches the speed of the gears before they mesh. RACE says that, when it is worn, a particular gear grinds repeatedly, feels more resistant than the others or makes metallic noises when changing. It can only be confirmed at a garage, because the clutch, the selector or the lubricant produce similar symptoms.[3]
How much does it cost to fix a gearbox that won't engage?
It depends on the cause. RACE puts a fitted clutch kit at between €600 and €1,000 and the repair of an automatic at between €2,000 and €3,000; a new automatic gearbox can reach €7,000-8,000 including labour. These are indicative figures from Spain and from a single source.[4][6]
Other symptoms: gearbox and clutch
- Automatic gearbox fault warningUrgency: Garage soon25 faults cause it in 16 engines
- Judder when pulling away or at low speed (automatic gearbox)Urgency: Garage soon22 faults cause it in 15 engines
- Clutch slippingUrgency: Garage soon31 faults cause it in 26 engines
- Clutch pedal heavy, juddering or not returningUrgency: Garage soon9 faults cause it in 9 engines
- Jerking or vibration from the CVT automatic gearboxUrgency: Garage soon3 faults cause it in 3 engines
Has this happened to you? Tell us which fault it was, at how many kilometres and how much you paid: it helps other owners know what to expect. Report your fault.
Sources
Every fact on this page links to its source. If you find an error, let us know.
- No entran bien las marchasRACE · Motoring press · published 8 February 2023 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
- No entran las marchas: ¿qué avería tiene mi coche?Motor.es · Motoring press · published 7 September 2020 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
- Sincronizador de la caja de cambios: qué es y cómo funcionaRACE · Motoring press · published 16 September 2026 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
- No entran marchas caja de cambio automáticaRACE · Motoring press · published 23 June 2023 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
- No entran los cambios con el motor en marchaMapfre Motor · Motoring press · published 8 March 2024 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
- Problemas de embrague: síntomas y averíasRACE · Motoring press · published 21 November 2022 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
- Palanca de cambios duraRACE · Motoring press · published 27 January 2023 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
- ¿Merece la pena cambiar la caja de cambios?RACE · Motoring press · published 21 March 2023 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
- Problemas y mantenimiento de la caja de cambios automáticaRACE · Motoring press · published 10 September 2020 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
- Caja de cambios de doble embrague (DCT)RACE · Motoring press · published 17 September 2026 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
- Palanca de cambios sueltaRACE · Motoring press · published 26 January 2023 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
- DSG7 DQ200: Guía Técnica Definitiva (P17BF, Mecatrónica y Soluciones)STR Performance · Technical documentation · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
- Ford Focus recallsAutoinsider · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026
- Typische Probleme & Haltbarkeit der MultitronicGebrauchtwagenberater · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
- Fiabilité et pannes Honda Civic (2006-2011)Fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Hyundai Tucson 2015-2021Fiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Kia Sportage 2016-2022Fiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité et pannes de la Renault Clio 5Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité et pannes du Renault ArkanaFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité Land Rover Range Rover Sport (2005-2013), pannes et témoignagesFiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Direct-shift gearboxWikipedia · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026
- Boîte auto EAT8 Peugeot / CitroënFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Boîte EDC 6 : que les vitesses impaires qui passentL'argus.fr (forum) · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité et pannes de la Fiat 500Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité Mercedes GLA (2013-2019) - pannesFiches-auto.fr · Technical documentation · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- El cambio de aceite de la caja de cambios que evita una avería de 2.000 eurosMotor16 · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in Spanish
- Probleme & Schwachstellen beim DSGGebrauchtwagenberater · Technical documentation · published March 2023 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
- Fiabilité BMW Série 5 (2010-2016), pannes et témoignagesFiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- 7 Speed DSG Gearbox Problems | Mechatronic Faults | DSG Clutch PackEco Torque · Technical documentation · consulted 26 September 2026
- Fiabilité Mercedes Classe C: pannes et avis (W204)Fiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité Mercedes Classe E: pannes et avis (W212)Fiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité Mercedes GLC: pannes et avisFiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Toyota Yaris (1999-2005) : fiabilité, pannes et rappelsFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Opel Meriva (2003-2009) : fiabilité, pannes et rappelsFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- 2016 Hyundai Tucson problemsCarComplaints.com · Owners' forum · consulted 26 September 2026
- Opel Astra J: Probleme und SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
- Fiabilité et pannes de l'Opel Astra (2021-)Fiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité de l'hybride e-DCS6 de Stellantis : l'inquiétude grandit ?Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité Peugeot 3008 III : témoignages de pannesFiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilidad y averías del Renault AustralFiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Forfour Auto Gear Faultevilution.co.uk · Technical documentation · consulted 29 October 2026
- 2004–2006 smart forfour (454) — New Owner GuideSmart Car Manuals · Technical documentation · consulted 29 October 2026
- Are Smart Cars Reliable? Fortwo & Forfour ProblemsService4Service · Other source · consulted 29 October 2026
- Gebrauchtwagentest: Suzuki Grand VitaraAutoScout24 · Motoring press · published 2016 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in German
- Suzuki Grand Vitara Problemecarwiki.de · Other source · consulted 29 October 2026 · in German
- VW Touran 1 (1T): bekannte Probleme und SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
- Fiat 500X : les plus et les moinsFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Honda Civic 8 – Alle bekannten Probleme & KrankheitenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
- Fiabilité et pannes de l'Alfa Romeo 147 (2000-2005)Fiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité et pannes de l'Alfa Romeo 147 restylée (2005-2010)Fiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité BMW Série 2 Active Tourer (2014-2022): pannes et avis de propriétairesFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Citroën C4 Picasso 2006-2013fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité Dacia Jogger (2021) (75 avis)Fiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité Dacia Sandero 3 (2020) (131 avis)Fiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiat 600 : fiabilité, pannes et rappelsFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiat 600 : les plus et les moinsFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité et pannes du Ford Fiesta (2002-2008)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité et pannes du Ford S-Max 2 (2015-)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité Hyundai i20 (2009-2014) (128 témoignages)Fiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Hyundai i20 I (Mk1): Typische Probleme & SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
- Tous les problèmes sur Hyundai Santa Fe 1999-2006 (103 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Hyundai Tucson 2021Fiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité Kia Rio (2011-2016) (174 témoignages)Fiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Kia Rio III (UB): Typische Probleme & SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
- Fiabilité Kia Sportage (2010-2015) (221 témoignages)Fiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Kia Sportage 2022Fiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Rückruf Mercedes Citan und T-Klasse: Kupplungsdefekt kann Antrieb lahmlegenAuto Motor und Sport · Motoring press · published 31 March 2026 · consulted 9 October 2026 · in German
- Mercedes-Benz Citan, T-Klasse – Probleme mit der KupplungÖAMTC · Other source · consulted 9 October 2026 · in German
- Tous les problèmes sur Nissan Almera 2000-2005 (90 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- VOS AVIS Nissan JukeCaradisiac · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Opel Astra H (A04) – Typische Probleme & SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
- Opel Zafira B – Typische Probleme & SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
- Peugeot 308 : pannes et fiabilitéfiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Probleme mit dem Porsche Cayenne: Krankheiten, Fehler & Schwachstellen im Überblick, inklusive RückrufaktionenCarWiki.de · Other source · consulted 9 October 2026 · in German
- Fallos Caja Cambios - Reclamaciones y opiniones RENAULT ESPAÑAOCU · Consumer association · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
- Fiabilité Renault Kangoo 2 : tous les problèmes et vices révélésfiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Seat Mii 2012-2021 (27 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Volkswagen UP 2011-2023 (111 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Skoda Citigo 2012-2020 (20 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Toyota Auris (2007-2012) : fiabilité, pannes et rappelsFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- VW Golf IV (1J): typische Probleme und Schwachstellen (Kaufberatung)gebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
- Tous les problèmes sur Volkswagen Polo IV 2001-2009 (341 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité et pannes de l'Alfa Romeo 159Fiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Alfa-romeo MITO 2008-2019 (297 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Bmw X2 2017-2023 (46 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur BMW Z4 2003-2009 (78 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité Citroën Berlingo 3 : témoignages de pannesFiches-Auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité Citroën C3 (2002-2009) : pannes et rappelsfiches-auto.fr · Technical documentation · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Citroën C3 Picasso 2009-2017fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Dacia Logan 2 Mcv : avis des propriétairesCaradisiac · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité et pannes de la Fiat Punto (Grande Punto / Punto Evo / Punto)Fiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Ford FUSION 2002-2008 (206 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Hyundai Kona 2 2023 (10 témoignages)Fiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Jeep Avenger : fiabilité, pannes et rappelsFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Kia Picanto - Typische Probleme, Schwachstellen & RückrufeGebrauchtwagenberater · Motoring press · published 7 February 2022 · consulted 9 October 2026 · in German
- Fiabilité Kia Rio (2017) (29 témoignages)Fiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Lotus Elise S2 | PH Used Buying GuidePistonHeads · Motoring press · published 27 July 2020 · consulted 29 October 2026
- Lotus Elise S2 buying guide - Lotus Elise S2 buying checkpointsevo · Motoring press · published 6 January 2021 · consulted 29 October 2026
- Mazda 2 I (DY): Typische Probleme & MängelGebrauchtwagenberater · Motoring press · published 13 February 2025 · consulted 5 October 2026 · in German
- Mazda 6 II (GH, 2008-2012): typische Probleme und SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
- Mitsubishi Colt VI Z30 2004-2012 Probleme und SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater · Motoring press · consulted 29 October 2026 · in German
- Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 1.5 T: usterkiAutoCentrum · Other source · consulted 29 October 2026 · in another language
- Opel Cascada Probleme: Mängel, Schwachstellen und Krankheitencarwiki.de · Other source · consulted 8 October 2026 · in German
- Opel Meriva A – Typische Probleme & SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
- Vauxhall Vivaro van review (2003-2014)Auto Express · Motoring press · published 28 August 2013 · consulted 5 October 2026
- Nissan Primastar van reviewAuto Express · Motoring press · published 10 July 2013 · consulted 5 October 2026
- Peugeot 207 : pannes et fiabilitéfiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Renault Kangoo 1997-2007 (232 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Renault Modus : pannes et fiabilitéfiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Renault Twingo 1993-2006 (243 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Renault Twingo I - WikipédiaWikipedia · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Renault Twingo III : avis fiabilitéL'Argus (largus.fr) · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Seat Ibiza 2008-2017 (377 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Seat Toledo (1999-2004): fiabilidad y averías según testimoniosfiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Suzuki Ignis Probleme: Getriebe, Rost, Fahrwerk, Bremsecarwiki.de · Other source · consulted 29 October 2026 · in German
- Tous les problèmes sur Suzuki Splash 2008-2015 (43 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Suzuki Swift 2005-2010 (213 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Suzuki Swift 2 2010-2017 (150 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Volkswagen Polo V 2009-2017 (775 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Volvo Car S40 – Gearbox may jam (recall DVSA R/2010/071; XC70, V70, S80, XC90, C30, S40, V50, C70, XC60)car-recalls.co.uk (DVSA, Reino Unido) · Other source · published 11 June 2010 · consulted 5 October 2026
- Volvo Car S80 – Gearbox may jamcar-recalls.co.uk (DVSA, Reino Unido) · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026
- Volvo Car V70 – Gearbox may jamcar-recalls.co.uk (DVSA, Reino Unido) · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026
- Volvo XC90 I (2002 – 2014) – Typische Probleme & KrankheitenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · published 8 September 2023 · consulted 5 October 2026 · in German
- Common Problems with the Chrysler VoyagerBreakerLink · Motoring press · consulted 30 October 2026
- Usterki Chrysler Grand Voyager - wady, awarieautocentrum.pl · Owners' forum · consulted 30 October 2026 · in another language
- Tous les problèmes sur Citroën C3 Aircross II 2025 (14 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Citroën C3 IV 2024 (67 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité Fiat 500 : pannes et témoignagesFiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Fiabilité Fiat Tipo : pannes et témoignagesFiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Used Ford Kuga (Mk2, 2012-2019) reviewAuto Express · Motoring press · published 20 October 2021 · consulted 27 September 2026
- Peugeot 2008 (2016): gearbox injury, actuador de la caja (alerta 15/2017)Car-Recalls.eu (Safety Gate UE) · Official body · published 16 April 2017 · consulted 29 October 2026
- Fiabilité Renault Scénic 4 : pannes et témoignagesFiches-auto.fr · Owners' forum · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Seat Leon I: Bekannte Probleme & RückrufeGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
- Alfa Romeo 147 problemi: malfunzionamenti del cambioMotori Magazine · Motoring press · published 6 September 2016 · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Italian
- Tous les problèmes sur Alfa-romeo JUNIOR 2024fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Fiat Sedici: gebraucht kaufen (ventajas, desventajas y opiniones de propietarios)12gebrauchtwagen.de · Other source · consulted 29 October 2026 · in German
- Tous les problèmes sur Ford KA PLUS 2016-2020 (23 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Hyundai i10 2013-2020 (33 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Hyundai i10 II: Typische Mängel und KrankheitenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · consulted 29 October 2026 · in German
- Tous les problèmes sur Hyundai i20 2020 (9 témoignages)Fiches-auto.fr · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
- Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 903: problemas conocidos (ficha de CarWiki)carwiki.de · Other source · consulted 8 October 2026 · in German
- Fiabilité Skoda Fabia 3 (2014-2021) (117 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Tous les problèmes sur Toyota Avensis 2008-2018 (115 témoignages)fiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in French
- Suzuki SX4 | Typische Probleme & Schwachstellengebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · published 6 July 2023 · consulted 5 October 2026 · in German