The automatic transmission is a critical component of a vehicle that transmits power from the engine to the wheels, enabling you to drive your car. When this part stops working correctly, you have to fix it as soon as possible, or you may incur some costs.
Automatic transmission repair cost ranges from $1300 to $4600. This cost includes the diagnosis, parts, and labor. Generally, the price varies with the severity of the problem and the vehicle make and model.
Read on for more details on the factors that affect the cost of repairing an automatic transmission and tips for choosing a reliable mechanic.
Factors That Affect Automatic Transmission Repair Cost
Overall, fixing an automatic transmission costs $1300 – $4600. The basic costs associated with fixing an automatic transmission include:
- $1600 – $4000 to rebuild damaged transmissions
- $1300 – $2700 on salvage systems
- $1800 – $4600 on remanufactured ones
- An additional $500 – $1200 for labor
Note: The figures mentioned above are averages and may vary with the severity of the problem, the make and model of the car, and local taxes. Ensure you get quotes from different mechanics in your location and compare them to get more accurate estimates.
As I mentioned, several factors determine how much it costs to fix an automatic transmission. Here are some of the main ones:
- The transmission’s age: Generally, the older the transmission, the more expensive it will be to repair. This is because worn-out parts will need to be replaced, and spare parts are often harder to come by as the years go by.
- The severity of the problem: The more damage there is to the transmission, the more it costs to fix. This could be due to several factors, such as wear and tear, accidents, or improper maintenance.
- The make and model of the car: Certain car brands are more expensive to repair because the parts are harder to come by and more expensive. For instance, luxury cars often have more complex transmissions that require more specialized knowledge and parts to fix.
- The mechanic’s experience: If you take your car to a transmission specialist rather than a general mechanic, you can expect to pay more. This is because specialists typically have more experience and charge a higher rate for their services.
Read: Automatic Transmission Have Grinding Noise When Put in Gear. How To Fix?
Is Transmission Worth Replacing?
A transmission is worth replacing if you frequently have to fix its components. However, if your transmission is still in good condition and only needs occasional maintenance, then repairing it may be a better option.
While transmission repair can be costly, it’s ultimately cheaper and more convenient than constantly repairing its components. Transmission replacement is a significant investment, but it pays off in the long run.
Plus, a new transmission comes with a warranty, so you can rest assured that your car will run smoothly for years to come.
Pro tip: It’s crucial to consult with a professional before making decisions about your car’s transmission. A qualified mechanic can assess the condition of your transmission and provide you with an accurate estimate of the costs involved in either repairing or replacing it.
Tips on Getting the Best Deal on Automatic Transmission Repair
Arguably, transmission repairs and replacements can be pretty expensive. However, there are several ways to minimize the cost without compromising the quality of the work.
Here are a few tips to get the best deal on automatic transmission repair.
Read: Why Does An Automatic Transmission Have High RPM Before Shifting?
Get Several Quotes
This is the best way to get an idea of how much you may potentially spend on transmission repair. Different mechanics may charge different rates, so it’s essential to compare quotes before deciding. This will also give you a chance to find a mechanic you trust and feel comfortable working with.
Read: What Does a Slipping Transmission Feel Like?
Choose a Reliable Mechanic
It’s essential to choose a reliable mechanic who has experience repairing automatic transmissions. A good mechanic will accurately diagnose the problem and estimate the costs involved in fixing it.
Here are a few ways to get started:
- Ask for referrals from friends or family members: Chances are, someone you know has had to get their car’s transmission repaired in the past. Ask them who they went to and if they were happy with the results.
- Search for reviews online: Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential mechanics, take a look at their online reviews. This will give you a better idea of what to expect from their services.
- Check the Better Business Bureau: The BBB is a good resource for finding information about businesses, including mechanics. You can search for a specific mechanic to see if there are any complaints filed against them.
Don’t DIY
While it might be tempting to try and fix the transmission yourself, this is not recommended. Transmission repair can be tricky, and if you don’t have the proper knowledge or experience, you may do more harm than good.
Leave the repairs to the experts and save yourself the hassle. Besides, some mechanics offer a warranty on their work, so you can rest assured that they will do the job properly.
Look for Special Deals and Discounts
Many mechanics offer special deals and discounts on their services, so be sure to ask about any current promotions before making a decision. You may be able to get a better deal by bundling the transmission repair with other services, such as an oil change or tune-up.
Pro tip: It’s a good idea to have your car’s transmission serviced regularly. This can help prevent minor problems from turning into costly repairs down the road.
Read: Why Automatic Transmission Slipping When Accelerating?
How To Keep Your Transmission Healthy?
Regular car maintenance is crucial to keeping your vehicle running smoothly. By following the recommended guidelines, you can help prevent expensive transmission repairs down the road.
Let’s discuss a few ways to keep your transmission healthy and prevent expensive repairs.
Service Your Car Regularly
It’s essential to service your car regularly, especially if it has an automatic transmission. This will help keep the transmission running smoothly and prevent minor problems from turning into major ones.
Note: For the best results, ensure you follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule.
Check Your Transmission Fluid Levels
Regularly checking your transmission fluid levels is a sure-fire way to keep the system healthy. Low fluid levels can cause various problems, such as overheating, friction damage, and corrosion.
To check your transmission fluid levels, follow these steps:
- Park your car in a safe place and turn off the engine.
- Open your vehicle’s hood.
- Locate the transmission dipstick, which is usually on the rear side of your engine.
- Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean with a cloth.
- Reinsert the dipstick and pull it out again.
- Check the fluid level. It should be somewhere between the two hash marks on the dipstick.
- If the fluid levels are low, add the recommended amount of fluid to your car.
- Return the transmission dipstick and close the hood.
Here’s a tutorial on how to check your transmission fluid levels:
Caveat: Ensure you use the correct fluid, as using the wrong type can damage the transmission. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for more information.
Avoid Abusing Your Transmission System
Don’t abuse your car by slamming on the gas or braking hard, as this can cause excessive wear and tear on the transmission, leading to expensive repairs down the road. Instead, it’s better to drive smoothly by accelerating and braking gradually and avoiding sharp turns.
Consult a Mechanic if You’re Unsure
If you’re unsure about how to take good care of your transmission, consult a mechanic. They can help you keep your car running smoothly and prevent expensive repairs down the road. Notably, they can also diagnose and fix any problems that may occur.
Pro Tip: To monitor your transmission and engine’s overall health, I recommend getting this LAUNCH OBD2 Scanner from Amazon.com. It’s a great tool that can help you identify any problems with your car and get them fixed before they turn into bigger issues.
Notably, it monitors your transmission, engine, and other vital systems, relaying information on their status in text and graph formats.
Read: Why Automatic Transmission Slipping When Hot?
Wrap Up
Several things determine the cost of fixing your car’s transmission, including the extent of damage and availability of parts. You can reduce or prevent these costs by addressing minor issues before they become major ones.
With regular car maintenance and being proactive, you can prevent expensive transmission repairs down the road. If you’re unsure about how to take care of your transmission, consult a mechanic for more information.
