2003 Clio 172
Unfortunately my 172 has developed some gearbox noise over the last week or so. It's whining slightly in 3rd, 4th and 5th, although it not too loud at the moment thankfully. I've just had the gearbox oil changed which hasn't made any difference so I'll be adding some lucas heavy duty oil stabiliser to see if that helps at all, although I don't expect much tbh. I'm resigned to the fact my gearbox is on borrowed time so am weighing up what to do with regard to getting it sorted. I'm shelling out next week for a full belts, waterpump and dephaser pulley change due to a leak from the camshaft oil seal, so money is a bit tight at the moment. From looking around a bit I've seen a fully reconditioned box with fitting and warranty for around £900, right the way down to a used box without fitting for around £150 or so. Obviously a used box may have or develop issues of it's own, however it would certainly be the cheapest option. Part of me thinks just drive the car until the box gives up then buy a second hand one to go in. I could perhaps then look at getting my existing one reconditioned when funds allow so I will effectively have a spare box. I'm hoping my existing box will last a while longer, albeit with some noise but who knows. Just looking for some advice really from people who have been through similar, as the 172 gearbox does seem to be made of chocolate.
, and the box kind of whirred in 4th gear. 2 years, 12k miles, and 6 or 7 track days and it's still going strong.
