VW Golf Mk2 Owners Club

1990 1.6 Driver Petrol Gearbox Replacement/Repair

June 23, 2026, 05:48:05 PM

I've been told that my Driver has failed its MOT partly on a gearbox oil leak, which the mechanic states is caused by worn gearbox bearings, which I don't quite understand, as I would have though leaks would come from failing seals rather than failing bearings??

All in all, I can understand that the gearbox is showing its age, being original, after 214.400 miles from new!

The mechanic states he can get the gearbox issue fixed temporarily but sufficiently to pass the MOT, but I need to consider what my options are.  I do have a friend who could help to remove and replace the gearbox.  Is it possible to track down a suitable refurbished 5-speed box, or is an alternative to remove the existing gearbox and take it to a gear specialist for refurbishment?

Any tips and experiences would be very useful.

Re: 1990 1.6 Driver Petrol Gearbox Replacement/Repair

Reply #1 – June 24, 2026, 12:57:06 PM

Hi, if you need the car fixed quickly then let the mechanic fix it otherwise as you are going to have to repair in the long run don't bother. Personally I would have my own gearbox repaired as you end up with a known quantity you don't know what you are getting with a second hand item.

Re: 1990 1.6 Driver Petrol Gearbox Replacement/Repair

Reply #2 – June 24, 2026, 03:32:59 PM

Thanks, scs.
Any recommendations?  I've contacted 3 here in Bristol area, and one has got back stating they can't refurbish due to unavailability of parts.  Still waiting for the other two.

Re: 1990 1.6 Driver Petrol Gearbox Replacement/Repair

Reply #3 – June 25, 2026, 07:02:55 AM

The reason your mechanic has said the bearing has gone is because it's the root cause:
The seal in the box has failed because the bearing is allowing the shaft to move up and down, which has unevenly worn the seal.

As for gearbox refurbishments, I can't recommend Gas N Gears highly enough, the guy has been in the VW world for 20+ years and has done around four boxes for me, all faultless. Not cheap, but great workmanship.

Re: 1990 1.6 Driver Petrol Gearbox Replacement/Repair

Reply #4 – June 25, 2026, 07:28:07 AM

Thanks, Monkey, that's so helpful!

I've emailed him!