I know this isn't a Skoda, but hopefully the symptoms will point towards a possible cause of this problem . . . or maybe someone may even know of it.

My father has recently purchased a 54 plate Civic 1.7CTDi. Fantastic little motor, uber-economical etc., exactly what he needs.

However, I've driven it and I've noticed a slightly odd noise from time to time. It can be described as similar to gears grating, but much quieter. It only seems to happen when changing from 2nd to 3rd and from 3rd to 4th (the noise is brief, maybe lasting 1 to 1.5 seconds), but not always (if you slow down the gearchange and do it quite slowly the noise isn't present). The noise also can appear if slowing down in gear with no braking in 2nd and 3rd gears.

I am fearful it might be a serious gearbox issue, but I would appreciate any thoughts others might have. Thanks.

Can only really be syncros or low/incorrect gear oil. best get a Honda garage to have a look.

Can only really be syncros or low/incorrect gear oil. best get a Honda garage to have a look.

The car is still well within it's used car warranty (a NetworkQ one) so I may be tempted to get it there instead? Is this a gearbox replacement jobbie if it is knackered sycro rings?:(

Yes, pretty much. However, you can hear the synchros work in some cars (though mostly old, British sheds).

Is there another you could drive for a comparison?

Gearbox can be stripped and syncros replaced without to much hassle. Warranty company may well insist on this.

Yes, pretty much. However, you can hear the synchros work in some cars (though mostly old, British sheds).

Is there another you could drive for a comparison?

Not off the top of my head. Doesn't sound too promising so I might use this warranty. Luckily it covers gearboxes.

Gearbox can be stripped and syncros replaced without to much hassle. Warranty company may well insist on this.

Is that economic, with the labour cost?

Depends on how much a new/exchange gearbox is.

All our gearboxes now have to be rebuilt, Warranty wont pay for a new/exchange gearbox.

Sounds very much like Oil to me - Call Honda and get them to come pick it up..

Failing that - Call them make an URGENT booking for you car. Honda are really tw*ts when it comes to Warranty....