Hi could anyone help with a rough diagnosis i have a 1.8 dynamic stilo and over the weekend i have noticed a whine/whiring on pulling away and when dropping down gears.
The gear stick moves forward and backwards 1st to 2nd ok and 3rd to 4th ok but when moving side to side is very stiff and does not return to centre on its own accord. Does anyone know if the oil in a stilo gearbox can evaporate as it doesnt seem to have a leak .Would like to know how to check oil level in box any help would be really appreciated thanks Steve

Gearbox oil doesn't evaporate significantly, (apart from light fingered mechanics in garages without CCTV) it's pretty gooey stuff

It's difficult to identify where your problem is without looking at it. Did it gradually deteriorate or has it happened quite suddenly?

It could be the linkage from the gearshift to the box or resistance actually inside the box.

What i'd be tempted to do is make sure the linkage is ok by applying some lub where necessary and possibly disconnecting the gearchange linkage from the gearbox ( they're usually just quick disconnects which pop off) and then feel the gearshift movement then. At least you'll know whether the problem is inside or outside the box
Pray "outside the box", that'll be cheaper.


You usually check the gearbox oil by putting oil in the filler hole (usually on the side of the gearbox) until it starts to come back out again but, unless the gearbox has drained through an oil seal leak (messy gearbox oil on the floor) i'd doubt that's your problem