Manual gearbox replacement with reconditioned exchange unit (ute / 4WD): how much does it cost?

Q: How much does manual gearbox replacement with reconditioned exchange unit (ute / 4wd) cost in New Zealand?

Typically NZ$4,140–NZ$7,140 including GST at a NZ$120 an hour workshop rate (A$3,660–A$6,180 in Australia at A$140 an hour).

Typically NZ$4,140–NZ$7,140 in New Zealand and A$3,660–A$6,180 in Australia, including GST. SUVs, utes and 4WDs.

	Parts (trade)	Labour	Sublet	Total incl GST
New Zealand	NZ$2,400–NZ$4,200	5–8 h	—	NZ$4,140–NZ$7,140
Australia	A$2,100–A$3,600	5–8 h	—	A$3,660–A$6,180

Totals use a standard workshop rate of NZ$120 or A$140 an hour and a 25% parts markup, plus GST. Your workshop's rate and parts prices will differ.

What affects the price

Recon Hilux R151/KUN26 boxes $2,350-3,150 AUD, GUN 2.8 $3,850; Ranger 5/6-speed $3,150-3,950. Exchange basis with 12 month warranty. Rebuild kits alone $440-600.

Other driveline repairs

Clutch kit replacement (small / medium car, solid flywheel)NZ$840–NZ$1,470
Clutch kit replacement (ute / 4WD, solid flywheel)NZ$1,240–NZ$2,400
Clutch kit with dual-mass flywheel (car)NZ$1,910–NZ$3,550
Clutch kit with dual-mass flywheel (ute / 4WD diesel)NZ$2,550–NZ$4,120
Clutch kit with dual-mass flywheel (European)NZ$2,420–NZ$4,550
Clutch master cylinder replacementNZ$270–NZ$640
Clutch slave cylinder replacement (external)NZ$200–NZ$490
Concentric slave cylinder / hydraulic release bearing (gearbox out)NZ$710–NZ$1,510
CVT replacement with remanufactured unit (small / medium car)NZ$4,720–NZ$7,140
CVT replacement with remanufactured unit (SUV / 4WD, e.g. X-Trail, Outlander)NZ$6,290–NZ$8,860

Researched by Credov in October 2026 from NZ and Australian parts suppliers and workshop price guides. Typical ranges, not quotes: ask a workshop for a quote before you rely on a price. All repair costs.