Common Problems with the Getrag Gearbox (GS5 52BG)

Known Issues:

• Bearing failure: Similar to Midland — results in whining, gear damage, and housing failure
• Loose differential housing bolts: Can lead to full diff failure
• Worn planetary gears: Found within the differential over time
• Low oil levels: Causes overheating and gear damage
• Corroded gear selector pivot: Leads to stiff or inaccurate gear selection
• Cracked gear synchros: Causes crunching or poor gear engagement.

✅ We recondition Getrag gear selector units by replacing the worn pivot points using our in-house repair kits.
✅ If a full Getrag gearbox reconditioning is required, it’s typically done to order due to the complexity of the process — we rarely hold these units in stock.

⚠️ If damage spreads to the outer casing, the unit may be beyond repair.

Quick Visual Identification:

• Midland: Clutch arm and slave cylinder on top of gearbox, under the air filter box
• Getrag: Clutch arm and slave cylinder on the bottom/front near the radiator
• CVT: The only automatic option available for MINI ONE and Cooper models — if your R50 is an auto, it has the CVT gearbox.

Need Help with Your R50 MINI Gearbox?

Contact us today for expert advice or to check stock.