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.