Ford Fiesta Gearbox Replacement Cost: The Complete Guide for 2025

Replacing a gearbox on a Ford Fiesta is one of the most significant repair jobs a driver can face. Whether you’re dealing with the notorious DPS6 PowerShift issues, a worn-out manual transmission, or a catastrophic failure caused by lack of maintenance, understanding true costs, labour expectations, and model-specific differences is essential. Here we present the most detailed and accurate breakdown available, giving Fiesta owners clarity before committing to repairs.

Understanding Ford Fiesta Gearbox Types and Their Typical Failures

Different generations of the Fiesta use different gearbox systems, and each comes with its own common fault patterns, labour complexity, and parts availability.

Mk6 Fiesta (2008–2017)

• Manual: 5-speed IB5
• Automatic: 4F27E (hydraulic automatic)

Mk7 Fiesta (2017–present)

• Manual: 5-speed IB5 or updated versions
• Automatic: 6-speed DPS6 PowerShift DCT

The PowerShift DCT is the most expensive to repair due to clutch-pack failures, TCM problems, mechatronic issues, and the complexity of dual-clutch systems.

Ford Fiesta Gearbox Replacement Cost Overview (2025 Data)

The core question every owner asks is: How much will this actually cost?
Below is the most accurate cost range based on UK and international averages, labour estimates, parts pricing, and model-specific variations.

Average Replacement Cost by Model Year

Full Breakdown: Manual Gearbox Replacement Costs

Mk6 Fiesta Manual Gearbox Cost (IB5)

Typical pricing:

• Used gearbox: £200–£300
• Reconditioned gearbox: £500–£650
• Labour (6–8 hours): £400–£500 + VAT

Expected total cost:
£900–£1,350 (used gearbox route)
£1,300–£1,800 (reconditioned gearbox route)

Mk7 Fiesta Manual Gearbox Cost (IB5 / Updated)

Typical pricing:

• Used gearbox: £150–£250
• Reconditioned gearbox: £1,000–£1,200
• Labour: £400–£500 + VAT

Expected total cost:
£800–£1,000 (used gearbox)
£1,600–£2,000 (reconditioned gearbox)

Full Breakdown: Automatic Gearbox Replacement Costs

Mk6 Fiesta Automatic (4F27E)

Typical pricing:

• Used gearbox: £220–£320
• Reconditioned gearbox: £800–£1,000
• Labour: £450–£550

Expected total cost:
£1,300–£1,700 (reconditioned)
£900–£1,300 (used gearbox)

Mk7 Fiesta Automatic (DPS6 PowerShift DCT)

This is the most expensive Fiesta gearbox to repair or replace.

Typical pricing:

• Used gearbox: £1,200–£1,600
• Reconditioned/mechatronic rebuilt: £1,400–£1,800
• Labour: £500–£650

Expected total cost:
£2,300–£2,900 (used gearbox)
£2,800–£3,500 (reconditioned)

DIY Gearbox Replacement Costs for Fiesta Owners

Replacing a gearbox at home is achievable for those with advanced mechanical experience, but it is not a job suited for beginners due to safety risks, alignment challenges, and the need for a proper engine support bar.

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DIY Cost Breakdown

• Used gearbox: £150–£600
• Reconditioned gearbox: £500–£1,800
• Additional parts (fluids, clutch, bolts, seals): £70–£300
• Tools (if not already owned): £120–£350

Expected total DIY cost:
£300–£1,900

Risks of DIY Installation

• Potential TCM damage on PowerShift models
• Incorrect gearbox alignment
• Driveshaft seal leaks
• Mounting point misalignment
• Warranty voiding

Professional Garage Installation Costs

Most drivers choose professional installation due to complexity, especially for automatic and dual-clutch systems.

Professional Labour Charges (UK Averages)

• Standard manual: £400–£550
• Automatic (hydraulic): £450–£650
• PowerShift dual-clutch: £600–£900

Geographical differences can push costs higher in London or major metropolitan areas.

True Costs You Should Expect by Gearbox Type

Manual Gearbox Swap

Total expected: £900–£2,000

Hydraulic Automatic Swap

Total expected: £1,300–£2,100

PowerShift Automatic Swap

Total expected: £2,300–£3,800

Factors That Influence Ford Fiesta Gearbox Replacement Cost

Make and Model Specifics

Later-generation Fiestas use more complex gearboxes with limited parts availability, raising the cost.

Age of the Vehicle

Older Fiestas often require new mounts, seals, driveshaft components, or clutch kits.

Condition of the Existing Gearbox

A damaged casing or contaminated system raises labour time and parts cost.

Labour Costs

Specialist garages with PowerShift expertise charge more due to the diagnostic expertise required.

Type of Gearbox

Automatic and dual-clutch systems always cost more than manuals.

Replacement Type Selected

• Used (cheapest, high risk)
• Reconditioned (mid-range, best balance)
• Brand new (rarest, most expensive)

Additional Required Repairs

Common add-ons include:

• Clutch replacement
• Flywheel replacement
• New CV seals
• Mount replacements

Ways to Reduce Ford Fiesta Gearbox Replacement Cost

Get a Proper Diagnosis First

Many symptoms that appear to be gearbox-related are actually due to clutch issues, TCM faults, or fluid contamination.

Compare Quotes from Multiple Garages

Competition saves money—especially for PowerShift repairs.

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Choose a Reconditioned Gearbox

This strikes the best balance between price and reliability.

Consider a Used Gearbox with Warranty

Only purchase if at least a 3–6 month warranty is included.

Replace Related Components at the Same Time

Doing the clutch during the gearbox swap saves labour.

Maintain Correct Driving Habits

Smooth engagement reduces wear on both manual and DCT systems.

Tips for Ensuring a High-Quality Gearbox Replacement

• Confirm compatibility with VIN and gearbox code
• Use only OEM-approved transmission fluid
• Reset adaptions on PowerShift gearboxes
• Replace clutch and flywheel if mileage exceeds 60,000 miles
• Demand proof of reconditioning for rebuilt gearboxes
• Get a written warranty (parts + labour)

What To Do If You Cannot Afford a Gearbox Replacement

There are several viable options to avoid scrapping your Fiesta:

Explore Used Gearboxes with Warranty

Salvage gearboxes can be inexpensive and reliable if sourced well.

Request Payment Plans

Many independent garages allow staged payments.

Consider Refurbished Units

These are rebuilt with new internals, offering reliability at lower cost.

Sell the Car as a Project

Faulty transmission Fiestas still sell well due to high parts demand.

How to Prevent Ford Fiesta Gearbox Problems in the Future

• Replace gearbox oil at recommended intervals
• Avoid harsh acceleration from a standstill
• Fix clutch issues early to prevent gearbox damage
• Keep PowerShift software updated
• Avoid towing heavy loads with 1.0 EcoBoost models
• Never mix transmission fluid types
• Inspect driveshaft seals every 20,000 miles

FAQs

How long does a Ford Fiesta gearbox last?

Typically 80,000–150,000 miles depending on driving habits and maintenance.

Is the PowerShift gearbox worth repairing?

Yes—if fitted with updated clutch packs and a properly reconditioned TCM.

How long does gearbox replacement take?

Between 6 and 12 hours, depending on the gearbox type.

Should I replace the clutch during a gearbox swap?

Absolutely—it saves hundreds in future labour costs.

Can I drive with a failing gearbox?

No. Continued driving risks catastrophic failure and increased repair costs.

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