If you’re a serious motorhead, you’ve probably heard about Mayfair Gearbox. They’re a well-established South African-based company that specialises in the repair and maintenance of transmissions.

The primary reason why we selected them is the business’ proven expertise, having been in business for over 30 years already. They’ve grown a lot since their establishment and currently have 18 branches in and around South Africa.

Another feature we love about Mayfair Gearbox is its versatility. The company offers a range of services for gearboxes, including repair, overhaul, and maintenance, making them a full-service shop, which we love.

We also like that they offer 24/7 roadside assistance for all their clients which can be very helpful during emergencies. 

Mayfair Gearbox’s strong reputation is also backed by several certifications from a few renowned quality assurance organisations like the ISO and the South African National Standards (SANS).

We’re also impressed to find that they’re a Level 2 BBBEE-certified company and is actually the most successful black-owned business in the transmissions industry.

Mayfair Gearbox is equipped with a strong team of seasoned professionals who are often complemented by previous customers for their professionalism and apparent know-how. 

They’re also very confident about the quality of the gearbox products they distribute and they also give out an in-house one-year warranty which is awesome. Moreover, Mayfair Gearbox claims a quick turnaround time of one day for unit replacements.

Nonetheless, there are a few concerns about the quality of their services. Some of their past customers who brought their cars for transmission repairs are disappointed to find that some of their solutions don’t last very long.

This is disappointing, especially because they have to come into the shop for another set of repairs just a few months after the first round, which, of course, incurs more spending for customers.

Also, there are also a bunch of complaints about Mayfair Gearbox’s poor communication with their customers. We’re disheartened to hear that their team rarely responds and gives updates about their cars.

All-O-Matic Transmissions (Pty) LTD is another worthy contender when it comes to transmissions expertise. 

They specialise in continuously variable transmissions (CVT) and pride themselves as the leading expert when it comes to anything related to automatic transmissions.

We love how the company is dedicated to delivering high-quality service. Their shop has an impressive track record, which is why we included them on our list.

All-O-Matic Transmissions is ISO 9001 accredited and is recognised by renowned organisations, including the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association (ATRA) and the Automatic Transmission Service Group (ATSG).

Their shop is also quite famous for their extensive product catalogue, particularly on how well-stocked they are of transmission parts and requirements. They also claim to have a fill rate of up to 90% on all automatic transmission parts, which is impressive.

Another feature we found notable is All-O-Matic Transmissions caters to all major car brands, which means they know their way around your car’s gearbox. 

Our favourite thing about this transmission shop is its facilities. We love how All-O-Matic Transmissions is updated with equipment and uses three complete computerised auto welders, which is sort of rare in South Africa.

However, take note that the shop’s top-notch workmanship comes at a price, a litter higher than its competitors, in fact. So take that into consideration before you book an appointment.

Lastly, there are a few complaints about the behaviour of All-O-Matic Transmissions’ staff. We’re told some of their previous customers experienced dealing with uninterested and unhelpful personnel, which is a dismay. 

Haider Gearbox Repairs (PTY) LTD is another popular transmissions shop based in Johannesburg. The first thing we love about this shop is its versatility as they specialise in both automatic and manual transitions.

They focus mainly on the servicing and repairs of car engines and gearboxes, which they provide six-month and 1-year guarantees for. What’s awesome is their guarantees are not dependent on the mileage of your transmissions.

Haider Gearbox Repairs is also preferred by many for its affordable pricing. Customers also appreciate the shop’s quick response to quote requests.

Another feature we love about this shop is they’re well-staffed with highly skilled mechanics. Many of their previous customers compliment Haider Gearbox Repairs’ team for being quick on their feet and friendly.

We also found it notable how most of their customers are regulars, which we commend.

Nonetheless, we do have some issues with Haider Gearbox Repairs’ inconsistency when it comes to quality of work. There are multiple grievances about how some of the shop’s solutions seem to be a temporary fix, which can be inconvenient.

Some of their previous customers also found it bothersome how long it takes for the shop to work on their car’s transmission. 

We’re told there are instances where Haider Gearbox Repairs kept customers’ cars in their garages for over a month, which can be too long a wait for many.

Next on our list is Delport Diff & Gearbox, one of the most- and highly-rated transmission servicing shops in Joburg. 

They boast 16 years of experience in the business and specialise in the repair and maintenance of both automatic and manual gearboxes. They also sell used and new original spare parts.

We love that their product inventory is varied and well-stocked. Delport Diff & Gearbox also works with all major car brands, which is one of the reasons why they’re in demand.

It’s also a big plus for us that the shop provides a 6 month/10 000 km guarantee, whichever comes first, for all their work. It’s also worth mentioning that as there are a couple of complaints about poor workmanship, this guarantee can come in handy.

Delport Diff & Gearbox also offers collection and delivery of car services in Johannesburg and in neighbouring areas, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your bust car to their garage.

Our only issue is Delport Diff & Gearbox’s poor customer communication. There are a handful of grumbles saying that the shop’s representatives are quite difficult to get ahold of, which is disheartening, especially for potential customers.

Brad’s Auto & Gearbox Repairs is another high-performing transmission expert in Joburg. They’re one of the veterans in the field, with almost three decades worth of expertise. 

What sets this transmission shop apart from the rest is its focus on Italian and French cars. While they do offer gearbox repair services for everyone, they claim to be experts in handling Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Citroen, Proton and Peugeot brands.

They offer a wide range of services, including transmission, brake system, clutch, and engine repairs. They also provide full-service checkups and electronics diagnostics.

We love how Brad’s Auto & Gearbox Repairs is always updated with the latest technology and equipment. They use dealership-grade diagnostic computers and tools to ensure precise and high-quality service.

Their rates for their gearbox repair services are affordable too, which we commend.

If there’s anything Brad’s Auto & Gearbox Repairs needs to improve on, it’s their communication with their customers. We’re told potential and existing customers find it hard to reach out for inquiries and updates, which isn’t ideal.

Lastly, there are also a handful of complaints about Brad’s Auto & Gearbox Repairs’ delayed timelines for their repairs. A few of their past customers shared with us how the shop missed deadlines for their gearbox repairs, which is disappointing.