Hi

I have a Nissan Almera N16 (2003 revised) with a somewhat annoying sound on occasions but has recently been getting progressively worse and more frequent.

The type of noise i hear is a whining/Droning noise which occurs occasionally. I initially suspected it to be the clutch as when the noise did occur, dipping the clutch pedal would temporarily silence the sound. It would re-appear once the clutch is re-engaged.

Took it to the local mechanic and surprise surprise, the sound was not present! So he had a look underneath the vehicle to inspect for any obvious culprits. He spotted a leak from the gearbox which he suspects may be a leaky driveshaft seal as the transmission fluid looked like a fresh leak.

Now I'm puzzled as to whether this problem is the gearbox or the clutch! HAd it been a gearbox problem, I've been told I would hear a "humming" sound, getting progressively louder the faster I went, which would be the bearings needing replacement (apparently common thing with Nissan gearboxes). However I don't hear this sound but I am concerned with the leak.

I need some advice on how to rectify the problem. With the gearbox, is worthwhile the work to simply replace the seals? Replacing the cluth would be an option but if it is a problem with the gearbox, then it would be good to have the gearbox reconditioned and fitted at the same time as the clutch.

Some advice please...