HOW MUCH DOES A TRANSMISSION COST?

There are a few signs that your automatic transmission is running out of life. Some modern vehicles might provide an electronic warning, but the most common sign is hesitation when shifting gears or taking off from a stop; this is known as slipping, and it occurs when the clutch packs in between gears can no longer provide adequate friction. On both automatic and manual transmissions, if there is serious metal damage, you might notice ugly sounds or certain gears will just stop working altogether.

You can avoid transmission replacement with proactive maintenance. Follow manufacturer directions when it comes to fluid and filter changes. Use a magnetic drain plug; this will capture any metal shavings inside so they don’t cause any further damage, and allows you to spot any issues during a normal service. If you regularly put stress on your vehicle with towing, carrying weight or driving quickly, you should consider an external transmission cooler to keep fluid temperatures down. Minivans are at more risk than most other vehicles for transmission failure; they often use the same engine/transmission combos as the family sedans they’re based on, but have to carry a lot more weight.

Transmission Options and Part Costs

If you do need a new transmission, you might be tempted to have it rebuilt locally, but a better idea is to purchase a quality remanufactured one and have that installed. It may cost a little more, but this way, you know the transmission was rebuilt in a specialized facility, rather than on someone’s work bench in between oil changes. A dedicated transmission rebuilder will have the specialized tools and parts available on-hand, unlike your local mechanic, who would likely just be using an off-the-shelf rebuild kit that only includes clutch packs and bearings. They could also open the transmission up only to find it’s beyond repair, yet you will still be responsible for the labor charges leading up to that point with nothing to show for it.

Why do labor times vary so much?

Unfortunately, transmission replacement is one of the most expensive things to do on most cars, and depending on the value of your own, it might not even be worth it. Professionally remanufactured transmissions for most vehicles start around $1000. Automatic and CVT transmissions will go up from there. Labor is usually expensive as well; because the transmission is physically large and heavy, it’s very difficult to remove from the vehicle, especially if you don’t have a lift. The size and weight also affect shipping cost. Most remanufactured transmissions will also require a core deposit in addition to the purchase price. This is fully refundable if you can return your original transmission, and this ensures that rebuilt options will continue to remain available. Transmission replacement also presents an excellent opportunity to replace the rear main seal on your engine, and the clutch if you have a manual.

Find Your Transmission

If you’re still unsure about what’s best for your vehicle, feel free to contact BuyAutoParts for knowledgeable assistance in getting the best replacement transmission parts for your vehicle. We carry guaranteed exact fit parts from known brands like ZF, B&M, Hurst, Cardone and more. All our parts professionals are here and ready to help!

More Vehicle Specific Estimates & Costs

Some of our top-selling transmissions, their compatible vehicles and their approximate costs are listed below. Keep in mind that part condition matters, in some cases we offer an aftermarket new part which meets or exceeds OE quality. The last note to be made about this table is that dealerships tend to sell their transmissions at list price or close to it; here at BuyAutoParts.com we offer you more than just the original equipment part, as we offer rebuilt transmissions.

If you are a DIYer, you will not incur any labor costs. If you choose a professional for the job, you will need to pay for both the part and labor. Here are the approximate transmission installation costs specific to some automobiles.