Defender · Defender 90 / 110 / 130 · 1990s–2016
Defender (Classic) complete gearbox/transmission
Complete manual and automatic gearboxes for Land Rover models.
Matching complete gearbox/transmission to a Defender (Classic)
The Defender (Classic) (Defender 90 / 110 / 130, 1990s–2016) was sold here with 5 different engines. Gearbox: Manual gearbox on Tdi, Td5 and 2.8i models; 6-speed manual (2.4 and 2.2 Puma). Send the VIN and engine number with your enquiry so the parts team can confirm the correct complete gearbox/transmission before quoting.
Know the part
Understanding Defender (Classic) Complete Gearbox/Transmission
A complete gearbox replaces the entire transmission unit rather than repairing its internals. Land Rover gearboxes include the R380 five-speed manual in classic Defenders and Discovery 1 and 2, a six-speed manual in the Puma Defender, ZF six- and eight-speed automatics in Discovery 3, Discovery 4, Discovery 5, Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, and transverse automatics such as the ZF nine-speed in Evoque and Discovery Sport.
A replacement gearbox has to match the engine, the drive layout and often the software. Automatic gearboxes may need adaptation or coding with a diagnostic tool after fitting.
Further reading
- Automatic transmission – Wikipedia
Background on how automatic gearboxes work.
Common Questions About Defender (Classic) complete gearbox/transmission
Should I rebuild my Land Rover gearbox or replace it?
If the fault is limited to a solenoid, the mechatronic unit or a seal, a repair is usually cheaper. If there is internal mechanical damage, a complete gearbox or a specialist rebuild may make more sense. Have the gearbox diagnosed before deciding.
Will a gearbox from another Land Rover fit mine?
Only if it matches the engine, drive layout and version. Gearboxes that look similar can have different bell housings, ratios, torque converters and software. Match by the gearbox code or part number.
Does a replacement automatic gearbox need programming?
Often yes. The gearbox control unit may need to be coded to your vehicle and the shift adaptations reset. Confirm this with a workshop before fitting a used gearbox.
What should I send to order a complete gearbox?
The VIN, engine code, the gearbox identification plate or label details, and whether the vehicle is manual or automatic.
Other Defender (Classic) transmission
Not sure which part fits?
Share your VIN or engine code and the parts team will check the correct part for your Defender (Classic).