DO YOU NEED A TRANSMISSION?

There are typically three choices for a transmission replacement -- remanufactured, rebuilt or used (from a salvage yard). Although the terms "remanufactured" and "rebuilt" are often used interchangeably, generally a remanufactured transmission is one that has been completely disassembled and reassembled in a factory, with all vital parts replaced, while a rebuilt transmission (also called refurbished, reconditioned or overhauled) is one that is disassembled and reassembled in a repair shop, with all worn or damaged components replaced, along with new gaskets, seals and other parts (but exactly what is included in rebuilding a transmission can vary from shop to shop).

Typical costs:

A rebuilt or remanufactured transmission can cost $1,000-$6,000 or more depending on location; the age, make and model of vehicle; whether the transmission is manual (less expensive) or automatic; and the warranty provided. Factory-remanufactured transmissions typically cost more, come with a longer warranty (75,000-100,000 miles or two-three years) and take a day or two to install. Rebuilding a transmission generally comes with a shorter warranty (30 days to one year or mileage limits and proof of maintenance). The process can take three to four days (or more), and costs can increase if extensive problems are revealed after the transmission is disassembled.  $1,200-$4,179 to replace a transmission in a passenger car, at an average cost of $2,324; $1,600-$4,500 to replace a transmission in a pickup truck, for an average $2,792; and $1,700-$6,000 for an SUV or minivan, with an average cost of $3,090.
A used transmission from a salvage or junk yard can cost $300-$800 or more, depending on the year, make and model of vehicle; the mileage and condition of the junked car; and the relative availability or rarity of that particular transmission. A used transmission is a gamble, because there's no way of knowing how the vehicle was maintained or damaged, or why it was junked. Also, because of the computerized control systems in modern transmissions, a transmission from a 2001 vehicle might not work properly in the 2002 model. Most repair shops will not install a used transmission because of these risks.

What should to know:

Replacing or rebuilding a transmission is typically a long and complicated process, with extensive labor costs. 

• Because shifting in a modern automatic transmission is done electrically through a computer system, 
• ^{what appear to be minor transmission problems can be caused by corrosion on the battery terminals]}
•  in these circumstances, replacing or rebuilding the transmission will not be necessary, according to the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association. Always Ask your mechanic to check the battery terminals prior to any other transmission diagnostic to see if that may be the problem.
• Generally it is not possible for a shop to give a firm quote for the cost of rebuilding a transmission until it has inspected the vehicle and done diagnostic tests; a ballpark estimate often changes after the work has started and things are opened up, and the mechanic can see exactly what needs to be done.

CHANGE TIMING CHAIN

A timing chain is a major component used to keep an engine's timing in sync, and replacing it is often an essential part of automobile maintenance. Timing chains typically last longer than timing belts and are preferred by some automakers for their durability. Most experts recommend replacing a timing chain every 100,000 miles or so. Timing chains might need replacement if there is excessive vibration or if the vehicle's ignition timing seems off.

Typical costs:
Hiring a mechanic to replace a timing chain typically costs $300-$1,000, depending on the make and model of the vehicle, its age and whether the work is performed at a dealership or an independent shop.
Purchased separately, a timing chain typically costs $50-$250 or more. For example, Ford uses a timing chain on its 4.6-liter V-8, which is found in several popular models, including the F-150 pickup. A timing chain for a 2004 F-150 with the 4.6-liter V-8 costs $53 from national retailer.
Timing chains are often sold in kits which contain additional smaller parts that can be used in the repair. Prices for kits vary considerably, from $20 to $1,000,as replacement parts for some original equipment manufacturers simply cost more to build than for others. Some kits might be built using expensive materials, adding to the cost.
Expect to pay $85-$130 per hour for labor, depending on whether the work is performed at a dealership or an independent shop. It depends on the model, but generally the job takes three-five hours. Costs can increase considerably, sometimes up to $700 or more, if the timing chain breaks before being replaced.
Timing-chain failure seldom occurs when the car is still under warranty, so customers will usually have to pay for the replacement themselves. Dealerships typically charge more, but their technicians are intimately familiar with the brand of cars they work on and they use factory parts. Independent repair shops may charge less, but they may use aftermarket parts, which are manufactured to factory specifications, but are not made by the automaker.

What should be included:
A timing chain kit should include the kit itself; any necessary seals, bolts and sprockets, and any other necessary accessories. A mechanic will be expected to remove and replace the chain, along with the aforementioned seals, bolts, sprockets, and accessories.
If possible, it is best to get an estimate before approving any work. However, if the timing chain has failed, the car will not run and this might not be an option.
Additional costs:
The water pump is sometimes replaced along with the timing chain. Normally, water pump replacement is typically about $300; however, since the technician is already replacing the timing chain, labor costs may not be charged, and the customer would only be charged for the part, which is typically about $100-$150.

IS IT TIME FOR A TUNE UP

TUNE UP:

Typically done about once a year, a tune-up is regularly scheduled preventive maintenance on a vehicle. The procedures vary by the vehicle's make, model, age and mileage, but a tune-up typically involves replacing the air filter; running computer diagnostics; and checking the condition of (and possibly replacing) the fuel filter, spark plugs and wires, and other basic engine parts.

What should be included:

Check the owner's manual (or the mechanic will check the shop manual for the year, make and model of vehicle) for a list of exactly what maintenance is needed, and when. Every vehicle has a schedule of recommended and mandatory maintenance, based on the vehicle's age and mileage. A tune-up typically takes about two to four hours of labor, depending on what is included.  Most modern cars use platinum spark plugs, which typically last 30,000-100,000 miles, so they do not need replacing with every tune-up. Some newer cars have an electronic ignition system instead of a distributor, so a tune-up does not include a new distributor cap and rotor. Symptoms that a car might need a tune-up include a drop in gas mileage, a noticeable loss of power, a "rough" engine or one that stalls at a stop, engine "knocking" or continuing to run after the ignition is off, or a "check engine" or "service engine" light staying on after the initial start. However, these symptoms might be caused by other problems with the computerized systems. Most repair shops will begin by performing a diagnostic test, to determine if a tune-up is the correct solution to the problem.