How much do mechanics charge to replace a transmission?
For a typical passenger car, expect a total cost in the broad range of roughly $2,000 to $8,000 for a transmission replacement, depending on whether you choose a rebuilt/remanufactured unit, a used unit, or a brand-new OEM transmission. Higher-end or luxury vehicles can push costs beyond this range. The final price reflects parts, labor, and any necessary related repairs.
Replacing a transmission is a major automotive job that goes beyond simply swapping in a new unit. The price is driven by the transmission type, the car’s make and model, labor rates, and whether ancillary work is required to ensure proper operation after installation. Below is a breakdown of common scenarios and what buyers typically pay today.
Cost ranges and typical scenarios
Costs vary depending on how the transmission is sourced. Here are the common options and what you can expect to pay today.
- Rebuilt or remanufactured transmission installed (no core exchange): For most cars, total installed price generally falls in the $2,000 to $4,500 range, with parts typically comprising $1,000-$2,500 and labor $1,000-$2,000. Price varies by model and the complexity of the job.
- Used or rebuilt transmission with core exchange: This option often mirrors rebuilt pricing but can be cheaper if a shop has a suitable core. Expect about $2,500-$4,500 total, depending on the core value and repairs needed.
- Brand-new OEM transmission (direct from dealer or OEM): The most expensive path, typically about $4,000-$8,000 for the transmission itself, plus $800-$1,500 in labor in the US, for a typical car; total commonly in the $4,800-$9,500 range or more for some models.
- High-end or specialty vehicles (luxury, performance, or rare transmissions): Prices can exceed $8,000 for the unit alone, with labor pushing totals well beyond $10,000 in some cases.
The ranges above reflect what many shops charge across the United States as of 2025 and are meant to serve as a general guide. Specific vehicles—especially luxury brands or uncommon transmissions—can fall outside these numbers.
What drives the price and how to save
Several factors influence the final bill. By understanding them, you can shop smarter and reduce the chance of surprise costs.
Automatic transmissions generally cost more to replace than manuals, and some transmissions require more labor due to complex layouts or additional sensors and electronics. Shops charge by the hour, and regional differences can be substantial. A full swap typically takes 6–12 hours on common cars, but more time may be needed for difficult installations or if ancillary repairs are required. Many transmissions are refurbished with a core exchange. A core deposit is often charged up front and refunded when the old unit is returned. Replacing a transmission may uncover or necessitate replacement of cooling lines, torque converters, mounts, driveshafts, seals, or sensors, all of which add cost. Longer or broader warranties (parts and labor) add to the upfront price but can save money if problems arise later. Urban areas or shops with specialty expertise (e.g., for certain brands) tend to charge more for labor and diagnostics.
To minimize expense, it pays to shop around. Obtain multiple detailed estimates that break down parts, labor, core charges, and any ancillary work. Ask about warranty terms and whether towing, fluids, and disposal are included. If you’re replacing a less common or high-end transmission, verify that the shop has experience with your vehicle to avoid misdiagnosis or repeated visits.
Summary
Transmission replacement costs vary widely but fall into a few key bands. For most mainstream cars, a rebuilt or remanufactured transmission installed typically ranges from about $2,000 to $4,500, while a brand-new OEM transmission can push total costs to $5,000–$9,500 or more, depending on the vehicle. Luxury or specialty models can exceed these figures. The final price hinges on the car, the chosen sourcing option, labor rates, and any extra repairs required. Getting several quotes, understanding what each includes, and checking warranties are the best ways to ensure a fair deal.
How much do mechanics charge to change transmission?
Average Cost of Transmission Replacement
As a general estimate, the replacement cost for a mainstream car with an automatic transmission can range from $2,500 to $5,000, including parts and labor. Manual transmission replacements may cost slightly less, ranging from $1,500 to $3,000.
How much does it cost in labor to install a transmission?
Labor is another significant component of the new transmission cost. Transmission replacements are labor-intensive and often require 8 to 12 hours of work or more, depending on the complexity of the job. Labor rates can range from $70 to $150 per hour, depending on your location in the country and the shop you choose.
How much is a full transmission change?
Average transmission repair costs range from $300 to $1,400. For example, if your manual transmission needs a new clutch, you can reasonably expect to pay around $800 to $1,500. On the other hand, transmission replacement is one of the most expensive repairs you can get. Replacements can range from $1,800 to $3,400.
Is it worth replacing a transmission on a car?
While new transmissions tend to be more expensive, they offer long-term benefits in terms of reliability, performance, and peace of mind. Replacing a vehicle's transmission can provide enhanced performance, increased longevity, and improved fuel efficiency.
