Two different problems – don't mix them up
"No gears" can describe two very different faults. Either the clutch pedal goes straight to the floor with no resistance – in which case the problem lies with the clutch actuation system. Or the pedal feels normal but the gear lever moves freely in mid-air or refuses to engage – in which case the problem lies with the gear linkage or the gearbox itself.
Likely causes
| What you notice | Most likely cause |
|---|---|
| Pedal to the floor, no resistance | Leak or failure in the hydraulic circuit (master cylinder, slave cylinder, hydraulic release bearing) or broken cable |
| Gear lever moves freely with no effect | Broken or detached gear cable or linkage rod |
| Lever stuck, no gear engages with engine running | Clutch no longer disengaging |
| Loud crack then nothing | Internal gearbox failure |
What should you do now?
Do not drive: without a clutch or gears, the car cannot be controlled safely in traffic. Have it towed. If a gear is already engaged, do not start the engine without first disengaging the clutch.
Repair or replace?
In the vast majority of cases, the fault is external to the gearbox: a slave cylinder or hydraulic release bearing, a cable, a linkage rod. These are routine repairs. Only an internal failure – often preceded by noises or cracking sounds – justifies replacing the gearbox with a reconditioned exchange gearbox, warranted for up to 24 months.
