No matter what you drive from automatic, manual, or CVT, everyone knows having trouble with a car’s transmission can be stressful and cost you thousands. When your vehicle stops functioning properly and you notice that something is wrong, it is difficult figuring out what has happened. Likewise, deciding if you need a transmission rebuild or a transmission replacement is another difficult choice. Knowing the difference can be confusing but it doesn’t have to be.
Related: Replacements Versus Rebuilds: Part II
Related: How Do Transmissions Work?
Related: 7 Ways Your Damaging Your Own Transmission
Diagnostics Are Everything
Once you have come to the conclusion that it’s actually the transmission that needs to be fixed, this can lead to an entirely new set of conclusions that may be drawn. Many of us make the mistake of bringing our vehicle to any transmission repair shop that may do it quickly or at a reasonable price. However, you need a reputable mechanic shop that can provide quality parts and labor. In addition, you also they also need to correctly perform a “Vehicle Courtesy Check”, which can acccurately detect your transmission problems and fix what has failed.
Even though the average transmission repair can cost a lot, it is worth doing it right the first time with someone you can trust. A reputable repair shop that knows how to correctly diagnose the problem and how to fix it the right way is critical to solving this dillemma. There are actually three different options when it comes to getting your transmission back to a good working condition-make sure that the right option is chosen for your particular issue.
Transmission Fix Options
The first option for fixing a transmission is to have it “repaired.” Having the option to do a repair is less likely because it can’t be done if the parts that are going bad have caused too much damage.
When repairing a transmission you are basically replacing the minimum amount of parts so that the transmission is brought back to good working conditions. This typically costs less, so it is smart to get the right diagnosis of your transmission the first time around.
The next option is to have your transmission “replaced.” This means that you will completely replace the entire transmission and this can be very costly.
The last option is having your transmission “rebuilt.” This means that the parts that are completely worn out will be rebuilt one by one and may not cost as much as a complete replacement.
Transmission Replace
A transmission replacement is the most expensive option when fixing your transmission. The cost in replacing your transmission can average from the lower hundreds to a thousand dollars, depending on your transmission type. In many cases, you will hear this referred to as “re-manufactured.” Basically, the manufacturer will replace parts that have gone bad with modified parts. This is an option if the transmission is too damaged to even consider a rebuild.
One thing to keep in mind with a replacement is the transmission is redone in a factory setting. The positive to having this done is that the people working on it can be skilled specifically to that particular transmission. When you chose to replace your transmission, you are essentially restoring it back to pre-built factory specifications. There can be positive implications with this depending on your overall goal and how server the damage on your transmission.
Why Choose to Rebuild over Replace
A transmission rebuild is a great option in most cases. This means you are only replacing the parts that have failed. Unlike the transmission replacement, the cost of rebuilding your transmission is a lot easier on your wallet. Just like a replacement, you are fixing certain parts, but not doing it in a factory setting. You will want a very reputable repair shop to have this done.
You may want to have a rebuild over a replacement because the cost to rebuild is less than an entire replacement and it is not done on the factory level. Also, having it done in a factory-setting does not necessarily mean that all the parts are brand new from the manufacturer. In most cases, brand new transmissions are only done when new cars are produced.
New parts, just for you
When rebuilding a transmission, new parts such as the seals, gaskets, clutch, and bands are essentially replaced. These are most often what is worn out in a transmission when it is taken apart. The first step in a rebuild is to disassemble and clean the parts. Then, a new torque converter is used and the solenoids will be replaced. Once all this has been finished, the transmission will be reassembled and put back into your vehicle, so make sure you have a mechanic that knows what they are doing during every step of the process.
AAMCO Colorado Can Do It All
If you’re looking for a reputable shop to help you identify specifically what has failed on your vehicle and think you need a transmission repair immediately, Schedule an Appointment before it is too late. Our team has the right tools, expertise, and experience to help you with your transmssion problems. From a transmission fluid flush, to a rebuild, or a diagnosis, we’re here to help you. Call any of our AAMCO Colorado locations for a FREE Vehicle Courtesy Check now.
At what point is a transmission too boned to rebuild? Are there components that may wear or break that are not part of a rebuild kit?
Thank you.
Great article!
I would add that a remanufactured unit will also have any available updates. The 4L80E I just bought for my 2001 Suburban went from the 12 sprag to a 34 and the latest torque converter was used. Mine had the common high mileage 4L80E issue of no reverse. Having 298,000 miles on it I didn’t feel a repair or replacement was the right move. The reman I bought has a 5 year 100,000 mile warranty and was purchased for $1895.
I bought a 2002 rave 4 from a friend who was getting a brand new on. I wanted to test drive it even though I rode in it a few times. Well before I could get to test drive it she called me and asked me if a was ready to buy it because hers would be in in a few days. Well I bought it because it was garage kept and her husband took care of the maintenance. when I first was driving it it would and it seemed like the gears were slipping between one and two. I called her and asked if it did that for her and she got mad at me and deleted me as a friend. Well I went to the place she bought it as well as the new one she go! I asked about why didn’t she trade it in and she didn’t like what they were going to give her for it. I asked why and they said it was the transmission, it was going bad. Well in this year of the rave 4 there was a recall on them. Well she went to have it fixed but the put a new catalytic converter on it. Well since I have had it I put 2300 dollars in it. Had the fluid changed twice, my garage up the road had it for a few months and fixed something but when I drove it home it was doing the same thing, sooo back up I went, They had it for 2 mths or so and said it needed an Ecm, or an EMC or something. They put it in butand had to have it flashed or reprogrammed because that was what the recall was about!! Did that but still acted up a lettle from time to time. But for 4or 5 days it drove perfect then the next day I went to go get cigarettes and it had a hard time going into second but it would. Then the next night I was going to merchersburg to a carnival but barely made it 1/2 way! I still had 1st but wouldn’t seem to go into second ! I pulled into a parking lot and drove it around and drove fine in first and would even go into reverse without problem. So took it out on the road and only would stay in first so had to pull over again. this time it stopped going into reverse unless I gunned it!!. Had it towed home? I am beside myself as to what to do because I am on a limited income. I got intouch with Toyota about it even though they extended the recall for 10 yrs or 150,000 miles mine only had 136 then and think they should have to fix it no matter because it has under 150,000 miles on i and when she to it to her dealer they said it was her catalytic converter. If they know about a problem I think the recall should be good for the 150,000 mile rule instead of the number of years! They made the problem and new about it and the vehicle wasn;t driven hard and is good other wise! Thank you for listening but please let me know what you think!
Hi Patricia,
Please submit your question through AAMCO Colorado Ask a Mechanic and an AAMCO mechanic will respond.
Thanks!
Your Friends at AAMCO Colorado
Hi Dave,
Please submit your question through AAMCO Colorado Ask a Mechanic and an AAMCO mechanic will respond.
Thanks!
Your Friends at AAMCO Colorado
My overdrive doesn’t work on my 2004 F-150 what does that mean
Juan,
We suggest asking your question through our Ask a Mechanic feature, and a real mechanic can get back to you soon. Or, if you are local, stop by one of 14 Colorado AAMCO Service centers and we can perform a free diagnostic check on your vehicle.
Thanks,
AAMCO Colorado
Torque Converter Overheated/ In shop now decision / 2013 150k miles
rebuild / reman / replace
Valerie,
Unfortunately, we can not diagnose your vehicle without seeing it in one of our service centers. If you are local to Colorado stop by one of 14 Colorado AAMCO Service centers and we can perform a free diagnostic check on your vehicle where we can access any repair needs your vehicle may have. If you are not an AAMCO customer, your mechanic should be able to advise you on the best long term and cost-effective solution.
Thanks,
AAMCO Colorado
Thank you for the article about if you should repair or replace your transmission. My broth has a truck with a bad transmission. He should probably get that fixed ASAP.
I had my 2006 f150 rebuilt from you guys in 2016 and it broke again why
Debbie,
Unfortunately we can not diagnose your vehicle without seeing it in one of our service centers. If you are local to Colorado stop by one of 14 Colorado AAMCO Service centers and we can perform a free diagnostic check on your vehicle where we can access any repair needs your vehicle may have.
Thanks,
AAMCO Colorado
I had an p0962 code on my ford escape I’ve taken my car to one of your repair shops in Bear Delaware they told me I needed a new transmission I paid 2700 dolls to have my transmission rebuilt and I still have the same p0962 code and my car still isn’t going into drive after the rebuilt transmission
BG transmission fluid is it a bad choice. And dealership flushed even when I said no flush because they had to to put in BG Making fluids all the same feel I can’t explain where my mind was at the time this has strongly upset me, I think I need to put Mercon in instead and BG coolant in my car to want that replaced too will never go back to Andy Mohr Ford Plainfield IN,
Hello, I am curious on how much AAMCO would charge in worse case scenario to totally rebuild a TR6060 and what warranty comes with this offered by AAMOCO?
Regards,
Fentress Basnight Jr.
fentress.basnight@gmail.com
Leona,
Each AAMCO location is an independently owned franchise. AAMCO offers a nationwide warranty so we suggest working with your local shop to address these issues.
All the best,
AAMCO Colorado
Shawn,
We are sorry to hear that you had a poor experience with a local Ford dealer. If you are in Colorado and need assistance with your vehicle please stop by one of our AAMCO Colorado locations.
Thanks,
AAMCO Colorado
Fentress,
Unfortunately, we can not diagnose your vehicle without seeing it in one of our service centers and can not provide pricing estimates via this website. If you are local to Colorado stop by one of 15 Colorado AAMCO Service centers and we can perform a free diagnostic check on your vehicle where we can access any repair needs your vehicle may have. If you have additional questions, be sure to check out our “Ask a Mechanic” feature, where you can email in your question to one of our AAMCO Colorado mechanics.
Thanks,
AAMCO Colorado
You state that a transmission replacement is the most expensive option,and:
“The cost in replacing your transmission can average from the lower hundreds to a thousand dollars, depending on your transmission type.”
Isn’t that very inaccurate? Isn’t it more like several thousand dollars at the very least?? Your stated price range is for what it may have cost several decades ago!
Bob, it completely depends on the vehicle, and how it’s done. We’ve had a few instances where customers have had transmission replacements that are ranging in lower hundred volumes, and other that are in the thousands. However, it is more common that a full transmission replacement averages more often in the thousand range.
re: Bob Lew on March 28, 2021 at 1:36 pm- I think they’re meaning tossing a used unit in it, this seems most likely with those numbers, right? This option costs only a few hundred now, and many many headaches and much more money later in most cases [not all]