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Can I drive with a slipping gearbox?
What slipping feels like, why driving on it costs more in the end, and what to do if your gearbox starts to slip.
In short: it's best not to. A slipping gearbox is one where the internal clutches (or the clutch, on a manual) aren't gripping properly, so engine power is being turned into heat instead of drive.
What slipping feels like
- The revs flare up during or between gear changes
- A delay before the car moves off after selecting Drive or Reverse
- The car feels sluggish even though the engine is revving
- A warning light, limp mode or fault code such as P0730 (incorrect gear ratio)
Why driving on costs more
Every time a clutch slips it wears and heats up, and the heat breaks down the fluid. Debris from the wear then circulates round the gearbox. What might start as a fluid, solenoid or valve body problem can quickly become a full rebuild if it's driven on.
What to do
Keep driving to an absolute minimum, avoid hard acceleration and towing, and get it looked at. If it won't drive safely, park it: we offer collection and recovery, so there's no need to risk the last few miles. Our diagnostic check will tell you what's wrong and your options before any work is done.