Why has the gearbox failed in my 2006 Vauxhall Zafira automatic?

I bought my 2006 Vauxhall Zafira 2.2-litre automatic one year ago. So far, problems found have been a new timing chain, two fuel pumps, new housing for the carburettor and the list goes on, all covered by warranty, thank god. Whilst in the garage for repairs I asked them to check the gearbox oil as it had too much in. When driving, although automatic, the changes did not feel smooth. The garage told me they had checked it (pressure tested electronically) and it was fine. I noticed the oil is now a frothy white colour and so took it back to the garage. They now tell me it needs a new gearbox as the radiator has leaked internally and caused contamination. The car is now two weeks out of warranty and I have a bill of £2600 minimum for repairs. Vauxhall are looking into it at the moment. Is this a known problem?

Asked on 23 June 2010 by holly87

Answered by Honest John
Yes, if the heat exchanger inside the radiator fails then coolant will contaminate the automatic transmission fluid. Since you first brought this to the attention of the garage while the car was still under warranty you should not have to pay.
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