I have a 2002 Octavia VRS, the gear change has become quite lumpy and requires effort and the most serious issue i have recently noticed is when using high engine revs and changing gear it is really difficult to pull it out of gear say from second and when engaging third it can make a grinding noise for the moment it goes in.

Does anyone know what this could be atributed to? I know there is lots of mention of the diff but apart from knowing there is something wrong with the gearbox i'm at a loss to narrow down what the specific issue may be!

There is no wineing, its very smooth and changes without problem (although still lumpy) at lower RPM;s. I've just covered 80k.

Any advice greatfuly recieved,

Thanks

I would start with an oil change. Most garages will tell you it is sealed for life and can only be topped up but it is a simple enough job. Use genuine vag stuff as this seems to be the best

+1 for oil change, but may also be clutch drag.

Could also just be the linkages, shirley? I've read a few posts on here about people fearing gearbox woes, some of them couldn't even engage any gear, and it turned out to be the linkages. I would certainly check that before assuming it's something more serious.

Thanks,

Was hoping to have a look over the weekend, however although the snow has gone, the rain prevented me instead,

I ocassionally get this, but I think it's probably just the syncros. It only ever happens if I'm really gunning it and trying to shift really quickly and it wouldn't surprise me if you can beat them. It's possible in quite a few cars, and the 5sp isn't exactly the most advanced 'box in the world. I wouldn't worry, unless if starts doing it all the time.