Nothing ruins travel plans like realizing your family vehicle has transmission problems. Slipping gears, grinding sounds, and other warning signs all provoke the same worry in every driver: “This is going to be expensive.” Before you panic and sell your favorite SUV, however, it’s worth doing your homework. A transmission rebuild may not cost as much as you think.
Is It Cheaper To Rebuild or Replace a Transmission?
When a vehicle has transmission problems, repairs are usually the first option — and the least expensive. If the damage is extensive, you need a different solution. There are four possibilities:
- 1. Transmission replacement — used (lower cost): The repair shop removes your damaged transmission and installs a working one from a used vehicle.
- 2. Repair shop transmission rebuild (low to medium cost): Mechanics take apart and inspect the entire transmission, replacing gaskets, seals, and all parts that are excessively worn or broken.
- 3. Factory re-manufactured transmission (medium to high cost): The manufacturer disassembles the transmission and replaces all gaskets, seals, damaged parts, and common wear parts, regardless of their condition. It is rebuilt to factory specifications and usually comes with a warranty.
- 4. New OEM transmission (highest cost): The repair shop orders a brand-new transmission from the factory for your specific make and model year.
Keep in mind that many factors can affect the price of transmission rebuilds and replacements, even between models from the same automaker. The more complex or high-tech the transmission is, the longer rebuilds take and the higher the labor costs.
How Much Does the Average Transmission Rebuild Cost?
The cost of a repair shop transmission rebuild averages from $1,500 to $3,500 for mainstream automakers (Ford, Chevy, Toyota, Honda, etc.). The parts for luxury cars such as Lexus, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz are more expensive, so rebuilding the transmission can cost $6,000 or more.
Factory re-manufactured transmissions always cost less than new ones, but they hover around the higher end of the spectrum. Expect to pay $3,000 to $4,000 on average.
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What Is the Cost To Replace a Transmission?
Used transmissions are relatively cheap, sometimes available for under $1,000. The average price is around $1,500 for most vehicles.
Brand-new transmissions generally cost $6,000 to $8,000 or more. This cost includes labor, and you also get a warranty. Some new transmission warranties last for three years or 36,000 miles.
Is a Rebuilt Transmission Worth It?
With rebuilt transmissions, it’s essential to choose a repair shop you trust. There’s no way to verify the condition of the replaced parts yourself. Expert mechanics deliver excellent results, but there are less-than-honest teams, too.
Factory re-manufactured transmissions are a different ballgame. They offer guaranteed parts replacements and a solid warranty.
Whether it’s worth investing in a premium rebuild depends on how long you plan to keep the vehicle and the condition of other parts. A well-maintained Toyota, Kia, or Subaru SUV just breaking 100,000 miles can give you twice that with care.
How Long Do Rebuilt Transmissions Last?
If you choose a high-quality team, a rebuilt transmission can last 50,000 to 1000,000 miles on average, while a re-manufactured transmission can last 100,000 miles or more – almost as long as a new one. In fact, the rebuilt transmission may even take advantage of new service bulletins from the manufacturer, making it better than the original.
The Worry-Free Way To Pay the Cost of a Transmission Rebuild
With a vehicle protection plan for your powertrain, transmission problems aren’t the end of the world. VPPs can cover transmission rebuild costs, saving you thousands and letting you enjoy your vacation in peace. Browse affordable powertrain plans for your vehicle today and see what’s covered.
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