Manual Gearbox Oil - Change, or Not to Change? That is the question.

[oscar]

Picasso Xsara
1.6 HDI VTX
92 bhp
9HXC
DV6TED4
2007
80,000k
Manual Transmission

Gearbox oil hasn't been changed - ever.

Is there good reason to do this at this point?

Should I change it now - or am I tempting fate?

Are the myths surrounding the dangers of changing transmission oil change exactly that - myths - Or - is there more to this?

My thanks to anybody willing to contribute.

Always best to change any oil most never change oils in Boxes or axles! even auto boxes need changing esp as that burns. VAG don't spec oil change till an oil change in there DSG boxes but those in the know change far far shorter as alot cheaper new oil than a new box!

[oscar]

seals for plugs have a look at dowty seals always used on sump plugs

[Peter.N.]

When I bought my last CX, some years ago, I regularly checked the gearbox oil for the first few thousand miles and it was fine, so I left it. At around 100k miles I thought I had better check it again and was horrified to find it was completely black. I changed it but shortly afterwards the synchro failed on 5th gear. Fortunately I could replace it without removing the gearbox.

I'm a little more attentive now.

Peter

[Steve Walsh]

Changed mine recently, I can't feel the difference while driving but I know it has good clean oil in.

[Peter.N.]

I don't think under normal circumstances as long as the oil is clean and up to level it matters very much, the most important thing is that there is enough in there.

Peter

[Andle]

Changed the oil - literally pitch black.

Gear changes are smoother - and I can feel how its easier on the acceleration too.

I think for the price (£15) changing the gearbox oil every few years is an easy win.

Ultimately the gearbox will thank you for it & is likely to last longer before it has an issue.

I'm beginning to fully appreciate the value of vehicle maintainence schedules - and not always listening to the manufacturer.

Always better to halve lubricant change intervals. Whether its oil, power steering fluid, gear oil etc - just halve it - if you can afford too.

And try and time an oil change just before Winter hits.