The dreaded 'whine' has happened! My trusted mechanic says its the gearbox and I can have it repaired or have a new one put in. He'll get back to me with prices on Monday. In order not to get a heart attack, can somebody give me a rough idea of the costs involved? How much is a new gearbox? (E32)

Many thanks

Probally cheaper to get a re build mate

I got a refurbed unit from Mr gearbox for 850 with 12000/1 year warranty. You can find them cheaper but my box was too far gone to get a good price as they need your old box.

Look on astra and vxr forums for more info on the m32 box repair, can be done for around 4/500 but I'd get a new clutch and dmf (if it's the diesel) while I was there so that adds a few hundred.