Peugeot 208 Gearbox Top Mount Replacement Guide

Nov 13, 2025 by Alex Braham 48 views

Hey guys! Ever wondered about that mysterious part under your Peugeot 208's hood that keeps your gearbox snug? We're talking about the gearbox top mount, also known as the coxim superior cambio if you're feeling fancy and speaking Portuguese! This little fella plays a crucial role in keeping your ride smooth and quiet. But what happens when it starts to wear out? Buckle up, because we're diving deep into the world of Peugeot 208 gearbox top mounts, why they're important, how to spot a failing one, and what it takes to replace it.

Understanding the Gearbox Top Mount

Let's kick things off by understanding what a gearbox top mount actually does. Simply put, it's a rubber (or sometimes polyurethane) bushing that sits between your car's gearbox and the chassis. Its main job is to absorb vibrations and reduce noise coming from the transmission. Without it, every gear change would send shudders through your car, making for a pretty uncomfortable driving experience. Think of it as a tiny, unsung hero working tirelessly to keep your ride smooth and enjoyable.

Why is this mount so important, you ask? Well, imagine driving without proper shock absorbers. Every bump and pothole would send jolts through your spine. The gearbox top mount does a similar job for your transmission. It isolates the gearbox from the rest of the car, preventing vibrations from transferring into the cabin. This not only improves comfort but also protects other components from excessive wear and tear. A worn or damaged mount can lead to increased stress on the gearbox, engine mounts, and even the chassis itself. Ignoring a faulty mount can lead to bigger, more expensive problems down the road, guys!

Furthermore, the gearbox top mount contributes to the overall stability of the drivetrain. By securely attaching the gearbox to the chassis, it prevents excessive movement during acceleration, deceleration, and cornering. This ensures that the power from the engine is transmitted smoothly and efficiently to the wheels. A worn mount can cause the gearbox to shift slightly under load, leading to jerky acceleration, imprecise gear changes, and even a feeling of instability, especially when cornering. So, keeping that mount in good shape is not just about comfort; it's about maintaining the performance and handling of your Peugeot 208.

Signs of a Failing Gearbox Top Mount

Okay, so how do you know if your Peugeot 208's gearbox top mount is on its way out? Keep an ear (and an eye) out for these telltale signs:

Excessive vibrations: This is usually the first and most obvious sign. You might feel vibrations through the steering wheel, seats, or floor, especially when accelerating or decelerating.
Clunking or knocking noises: A worn mount can cause the gearbox to move excessively, resulting in clunking or knocking sounds, particularly when shifting gears or going over bumps.
Rough gear changes: If you notice that your gear changes are becoming less smooth and more notchy, it could be a sign that the gearbox is not properly aligned due to a worn mount.
Visual inspection: Take a look at the mount itself. If you see cracks, tears, or excessive wear in the rubber bushing, it's definitely time for a replacement.
Increased engine movement: With the hood open and the engine running, have someone gently rev the engine while you observe the gearbox. Excessive movement of the gearbox can indicate a worn or broken mount.

Don't ignore these symptoms, guys! A failing gearbox top mount can put extra stress on other components, leading to more serious and costly repairs down the line. Addressing the problem early can save you a lot of headaches and money in the long run.

Replacing the Gearbox Top Mount: A Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, so you've confirmed that your Peugeot 208's gearbox top mount needs replacing. Now what? You have two options: take it to a professional mechanic or tackle the job yourself. If you're comfortable working on cars and have the necessary tools, replacing the gearbox top mount is a manageable DIY project. However, if you're not confident in your abilities, it's always best to leave it to the pros.

Here's a general step-by-step guide to replacing the gearbox top mount on a Peugeot 208:

Gather your tools: You'll need a socket set, wrenches, a jack, jack stands, a torque wrench, and potentially some penetrating oil.
Safety first: Disconnect the negative terminal of your battery to prevent any electrical accidents. Make sure the car is parked on a level surface. Then, loosen the wheel nuts of the front wheels.
Raise and secure the vehicle: Jack up the front of the car and securely support it with jack stands. Never work under a car supported only by a jack!
Locate the gearbox top mount: It's usually located on top of the gearbox, near the engine. Refer to your car's service manual for the exact location.
Support the engine/gearbox: Use a separate jack or engine support bar to carefully support the engine and gearbox from below. This is crucial to prevent them from shifting or falling when you remove the mount.
Remove the old mount: Remove any bolts or fasteners securing the old mount to the gearbox and chassis. You might need to use some penetrating oil to loosen stubborn bolts. Be careful not to damage any surrounding components.
Install the new mount: Install the new gearbox top mount, making sure it's properly aligned. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque using a torque wrench. This is important to ensure the mount is securely fastened and won't loosen over time.
Remove the support: Carefully lower the engine/gearbox using the jack or engine support bar.
Reassemble: Reinstall any components you removed to access the mount. Reattach the wheels and lower the vehicle.
Reconnect the battery: Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
Test drive: Take the car for a test drive and listen for any unusual noises or vibrations. Hopefully, the new mount has solved the problem!

Important Notes:

Always consult your car's service manual for specific instructions and torque specifications.
If you're unsure about any step, seek professional help.
Use quality replacement parts to ensure long-lasting performance.

Choosing the Right Replacement Mount

When it comes to replacing your Peugeot 208's gearbox top mount, you have a few options. You can go with an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) mount, which is the same type of mount that came with your car from the factory. OEM mounts are typically the most reliable and offer the best fit and performance. However, they can also be the most expensive.

Another option is to go with an aftermarket mount. Aftermarket mounts are made by third-party manufacturers and can be a more affordable alternative to OEM mounts. However, the quality of aftermarket mounts can vary, so it's important to choose a reputable brand. Some aftermarket mounts are made from stiffer materials, such as polyurethane, which can provide improved performance and durability. However, stiffer mounts can also transmit more vibrations into the cabin, so it's a trade-off between performance and comfort.

When choosing a replacement mount, consider the following factors:

Quality: Look for a mount made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the stresses of daily driving.
Fit: Make sure the mount is specifically designed for your Peugeot 208 model and year.
Price: Compare prices from different vendors to find the best deal.
Reviews: Read reviews from other owners to get an idea of the mount's performance and durability.

Preventing Future Mount Problems

Okay, you've replaced your gearbox top mount, and your Peugeot 208 is running smoothly again. How can you prevent future problems with the mount? Here are a few tips:

Avoid rough driving: Aggressive acceleration, hard braking, and driving over potholes can put extra stress on the mount.
Regular maintenance: Inspect the mount regularly for signs of wear and tear. Replace it as soon as you notice any problems.
Use quality parts: When replacing the mount, use a high-quality replacement part that is designed to last.
Proper installation: Make sure the mount is properly installed and torqued to the manufacturer's specifications.

By following these tips, you can help extend the life of your Peugeot 208's gearbox top mount and keep your ride smooth and enjoyable for years to come. So, there you have it, guys! Everything you need to know about Peugeot 208 gearbox top mounts. Remember to stay safe, use the right tools, and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Happy wrenching!