How Much Does It Cost To Rebuild A Transmission?

Transmission failure is a serious mechanical problem that can render your vehicle inoperable. There are several possible causes for transmission failure, many of which can be detected early on to prevent further damage. However, when these issues go unnoticed or untreated for too long, the results are detrimental and will lead to your vehicle needing a transmission repair. Now, you’re left with making the difficult decision to have an expert rebuild the transmission or have a completely new one installed. 

We commonly get questions from customers who come in with full-blown transmission failure, asking “How much does it cost to rebuild a transmission?” and “Is it better to replace or rebuild the transmission?” If you’re like many others in need of a transmission repair,  read more about how transmission rebuilds stack up against a remanufactured transmission. 

Transmission Repair Process

When it comes to transmission repair, there are a few options to choose from. You can have a new replacement from the manufacturer installed, which is typically quite expensive. Or, you can have a used transmission installed which may save you some money on the powertrain repair cost. Lastly, you could seek a complete transmission rebuild, which is what many vehicle owners choose to do.

New Replacement from the Manufacturer

The first option you have is to get a completely new replacement from the manufacturer. This is going to be the most expensive option given brand new transmissions cost thousands of dollars, in addition to labor costs. 

Used Replacement

A popular option for repairing a transmission is to purchase a used replacement and have it installed in your vehicle. This could save you hundreds to thousands of dollars if you find a cheap replacement, but be wary that you get what you pay for. An inexpensive replacement transmission could have several existing problems with it as well, which could leave you in the same position you’re in now. 

Also, if you’re not a qualified technician, you’ll need to seek a professional to perform the replacement. So, while you may save money on the transmission itself, you will still have to pay labor costs if you want the job done correctly.  

Transmission Rebuilds From Experts 

Rebuilding a transmission is an in-depth process that requires a significant amount of labor. This involves removing the transmission, inspecting, cleaning and replacing “hard” parts and then reassembling the transmission as a completed unit with all of its “soft parts” like seals, gaskets, clutches, and bands. 

Overall, transmission work through a shop guarantees the use of all hard parts that are still in excellent working condition. This saves you money on needless parts which could ultimately help with the overall cost of the rebuild. Likewise, soft parts will be replaced as needed.

On Average, How Much Does it Cost to Rebuild a Transmission?

If your transmission needs extensive repairs, a transmission rebuild may be your best option to get safely back on the road. You may be facing some hefty prices. It is possible for a quality transmission repair specialist to get the job done properly and ensure everyone’s safety while driving the vehicle.  

Though the cost of a rebuilt transmission will vary by shop, on average it will cost you between $1,200 and $5,000 depending on labor, parts, and unforeseen circumstances. This is still relatively cheaper than a new transmission, which could cost between $4,000 and $7,000 depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

What Can Affect the Cost of a Transmission Rebuild? 

The largest factors of cost are usually skilled labor and manufacturer parts. Labor costs and parts can run high depending on a variety of factors, including:

• Make, model, and age of the vehicle
• The extent of damage to the transmission
• Manual vs automatic transmission
• Location 

How Long Does it Take to Rebuild a Transmission?

Along with money, time is also an important factor when considering a transmission rebuild. What you have to factor in is how much time it takes your transmission specialist to diagnose the problem, remove your transmission, order parts (if necessary), complete the actual rebuild or repair and then reinstall the whole unit in your vehicle. Generally, a transmission shop dedicates a full day to each step in the repair or rebuild process, but if the transmission work is relatively simple and widely available, it could take as little as one day to complete.

Quality Reno Transmission Repair and Rebuilds

If you have any questions regarding how long it takes for a transmission rebuild, repair, or remanufacture, give General Transmission in Reno a call today. We’re a family-owned transmission repair shop built on values and integrity and we’re more than happy to answer your questions. Contact our transmission rebuilders for an estimate from General Transmission!

Get a Quote for Transmission Services Today