My Nissan micra is one of the last of the 2002 models. Only done 18000 miles but the gearbox is making a horrible sort of clanking noise when the gear lever is moved. It's as though something large is loose inside. Any help / suggestions please?

Heather Gee, September 2008

This is the answer to my own original question and I am pleased to say that the gearbox box did not need a rebuild. I took it to a reputable independent garage and like in John's situation they found that the 'bias spring' had broken and was clattering against the heat shield. They removed the broken spring and offered to fit a new one if i felt it was needed but they didn't think it was absolutely necessary and it seems fine without it. The repair cost me just £28!!!!

Heather, October 2008

Had clanking noise on changing gear but found spring below gearbox lever had become detatched and the problem was solved.,however this 02 micra after 58000 miles has developed a very noisy gearbox.

John., October 2008

i have the same model (52 reg 2002 - one of the last older style) and my gearbox has started to make the same horrible sounding noises after 28000mls. i took it to my usual mechanic and he said he took the whole thing apart and found nothing wrong. in fact, he (patronisingly) suggested i was hearing "road noise"... it's great to hear that someone else is hearing the same noises, (and that i'm not mad or stupid) but not so good to hear that the whole gearbox needs a rebuild.

if the mechanic took it apart and said there was nothing wrong, is it safe to ignore this noise??

Hanna, October 2008

Hi Heather
unfortunately the micra gearbox suffers with bearing problems sounds like your gearbox needs a rebuild

Fred, September 2008