If a car’s transmission needs to be removed to further diagnose the problem, there’s a better than average chance that the repairs will be quite expensive. Occasionally a part that’s not internal to the transmission case may be the culprit, like a torque converter or solenoid pack. If an external part is to blame, the repair costs maybe somewhat reasonable.
If the transmission needs to be completely disassembled, there maybe some better options available to the car owner. Some of the options may include:
- rebuild existing transmission
- install a used transmission
- install a remanufactured exchange unit
- install a new transmission
Rebuilding and Overhauling an Automatic Transmission
Besides the labor cost of removing and reinstalling the transmission, the labor cost alone to rebuild the existing unit could be expensive. Add the cost of replacing defective parts and it could run into thousands of dollars. When a repair shop needs to disassemble the transmission to diagnose the problem, the diagnosis alone can run over a thousand dollars. The reason for the high diagnosis fee
- cost to remove
- cost to disassemble
- cost to reassemble
- cost to reinstall
Once the transmission is disassembled, the technician will determine what parts need to be replaced and the cost of the parts are added to the estimate. There could also be additional labor involved. If the car owner declines the repair, the high cost of the diagnosis may still be charged. Some consumer laws require that the vehicle leave the same way it came in, with the transmission in the vehicle, even if the repairs are declined.
Installing a Used Automatic Transmission
Another option to the car owner is the installation of a used transmission. One of the advantages to a used transmission is the relatively lower cost compare to other options. The biggest disadvantage is that used units often come with a subpar warranty. If the used transmission has a problem, the car owner may have to pay additional labor to install another replacement.
Remanufactured Exchange Automatic Transmission
In some cases a remanufactured transmission could cost less that an actual overhaul. With a remanufactured exchange unit, there’s no overhaul (tear down and reassemble) labor costs. The only labor costs are to remove and reinstall. Many remanufactured transmissions are tested for quality and durability.
The biggest advantage to a remanufactured unit is they often have a decent warranty. Some rebuilt exchanges have a 3 year or 100,000 mile warranty. The car owner should shop for the best warranty available. Certain auto repair franchises and new car dealers also have a nationwide warranty policy.
Installing a Brand New Automatic Transmission
A new transmission could be a good option, if one’s available. Car manufacturers make a lot of changes from one model year to the next. Most new units are only available for a short period of time after the end of a model year. The car manufacturers instead rely on their own rebuild programs for transmissions, remanufactured engines and other major parts.
Adhering to a routine vehicle maintenance program can help keep the transmission in good condition for years to come. It’s always advisable to use the factories recommendation on transmission service intervals. The owner’s manual or dealer should have the information needed for periodic maintenance recommendations.
James Clausen - Clausen received a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration in Automotive Management and Marketing at Northwood University, graduating ...
Join the Conversation