Power Shift Gearbox
We understand how crucial a properly functioning gearbox is for your driving comfort, safety, and vehicle longevity. Our Power-Shift gearbox service offers expert diagnostics, quality repair, and preventative maintenance to keep your automated/manual hybrid or dual-clutch system running smoothly.
What is a Power-Shift Gearbox?
A Power-Shift gearbox (also known in some makes/models as a dual-clutch or automated manual transmission) combines the efficiency of a manual gearbox with the convenience of an automatic. It uses:
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Two clutches (one for odd gears, one for even) to allow fast, seamless gear changes
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Mechatronics (sensors, solenoids, actuators) to control gear changes electronically
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Specialised hydraulic systems and typically unique fluid / lubrication requirements
Because of its complexity, issues in a Power-Shift system often come from wear to the clutches, problems in the hydraulic/valve bodies, or faults in the electronics/mechatronics unit.
Common Problems & Symptoms
Here are the issues we often see with Power-Shift gearboxes, and signs you might notice:
| Symptom | Potential Causes |
|---|---|
| Slipping between gears, or delayed gear changes | Worn clutches, bad hydraulic pressure, degraded fluid |
| Harsh shifts, jolts, or hesitations | Faulty solenoids, mechatron-unit issues, old or contaminated fluid |
| Loud or unusual noises, whining, grinding | Mechanical wear, failed bearings, synchromesh (if applicable), or misalignment |
| Gearbox overheating or burning smell | Poor fluid quality, overworking the transmission, blocked cooling/hydraulic circuits |
| Warning lights or error codes | Sensor faults, mechatronic failure, electronic control unit problems |
What We Do
Our Power-Shift gearbox work includes:
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Full diagnostic assessment using specialist scanning tools to read error/fault codes, monitor sensor input & performance under load.
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Hydraulic pressure testing & inspection of the mechatronic unit.
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Replacement of worn parts (clutches, seals, solenoids) with quality OEM or high-quality aftermarket equivalents, where appropriate.
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Gearbox fluid flush / change using the correct fluid grade, ensuring clean hydraulic / lubrication systems.
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Reprogramming or calibration of the system following repair, to ensure shifts are smooth and timings are correct.
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Road-testing after work is done to verify performance.
Preventative Maintenance: Power Flush & Fluid Changes
To avoid costly repairs, one of the best things you can do is maintain your gearbox fluid and components. We offer a power flush service for automatic transmissions, and the same principles apply to Power-Shift gearboxes.
A flush helps to remove old, contaminated fluid, sludge, and debris, which can degrade performance and damage internal components.
What to Expect from Our Repairs
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Transparent diagnostics: we’ll show which parts are faulty, what needs replacing, and what you can expect performance-wise.
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Use of quality parts / correct fluids to ensure reliability and compliance.
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Warranty or guarantee where possible on workmanship.
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Clear communication every step of the way: estimated timescales, costs, any delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should a Power-Shift system have its fluid checked / changed?
Typically every 40,000-60,000 miles, but it depends on driving style, load, and climate. Dirty or burnt fluid is a common cause of early failure.
Is a fluid flush the same as a repair?
No, a flush is preventative and helps maintain the system, whereas a repair means fixing faults that have already appeared. Both are important.
How much will it cost?
Costs depend heavily on how serious the issue is. For minor work the cost may be lower than a full rebuild of the gearbox or mechatronic unit replacement. We will be able to give you a detailed quote after we can diagnose the issue.
Book Your Power-Shift Gearbox Check with Bruce Cousin Motors
If your car is showing any symptoms such as hesitations, unusual noise, warning lights, slipping or harsh shifts, we recommend that you do not sit on this! Bring it in to our garage in Scunthorpe, and let us give you a clear assessment of the issues you are experiencing.
Contact us now on 01724 524024 or through our enquiry form to book in your Power-Shift gearbox service.