How much does a Dodge Grand Caravan transmission cost?
The typical installed price for a Dodge Grand Caravan transmission replacement is about 3,000 to 5,000 dollars, depending on the model year, replacement option, and labor costs in your area. Prices can be lower or higher based on parts choice and where you shop.
Context and scope
The Grand Caravan, produced by Dodge as a popular family minivan, spanned several model years before its final 2020 run. Labor rates, parts pricing, and available replacement options vary by year, engine, and region. This article outlines current market pricing categories and what typically drives total cost as of 2024–2025.
Cost by replacement option
Prices differ depending on whether you opt for a new OEM unit, a remanufactured (rebuilt) transmission, or a used/transmission from a salvage source. The ranges below reflect common market estimates for Dodge Grand Caravan models from 2008 through 2020 in the United States.
- New OEM transmission (installed): typically $4,000–$6,500
- Remanufactured/rebuilt transmission (installed): typically $2,800–$4,500
- Used/salvage transmission (installed): typically $2,000–$3,800
For most owners, a remanufactured unit offers a balance of reliability and cost, while a new OEM transmission represents the premium option. A used unit can be tempting for upfront savings but carries higher risk of unknown wear or hidden issues.
Labor and additional costs
Beyond the price of the transmission itself, several ancillary costs commonly influence the total. The figures below are typical ranges you might see on a repair bill in the U.S., depending on vehicle history and shop policies.
- Labor for installation (roughly 6–12 hours at common shop rates): $540–$1,680
- Fluids, gaskets, seals, and installation kit: $100–$250
- Torque converter replacement (if not included with a remanufactured unit): $200–$450
- Core charge and disposal fee (often refunded after returning the old unit): $50–$150
- Diagnostics and incidental repairs related to transmission symptoms: $50–$200
These add-ons can push the total toward the higher end of the ranges, particularly if the vehicle requires additional component replacement or diagnostic work before the replacement is performed.
Where to shop and how to save
Prices and warranties vary by source. Consumers typically compare quotes from a mix of dealers, independent shops, auto recyclers, and online remanufacturers to find the best balance of cost and coverage.
- Authorized dealer service centers or automotive repair networks
- Independent, well-reviewed repair shops with experience on Chrysler minivans
- Auto recyclers or salvage yards offering used or remanufactured transmissions
- Online remanufactured parts suppliers with warranty options
When shopping, check for a clear warranty (12–36 months is common), confirm whether the price includes labor, and verify if there is a core return requirement. Getting multiple written quotes helps ensure you’re not overpaying.
Summary
Replacing a Dodge Grand Caravan transmission is a major automotive repair with cost variability driven by year, engine type, and the replacement route chosen. Expect a ballpark installed price from roughly $3,000 to $5,000, with options ranging from remanufactured units in the mid-range to new OEM transmissions at the top end. Labor, fluids, and auxiliary components can add several hundred to over a thousand dollars to the final bill. Shopping around and weighing warranties can help you secure a fair price while protecting long-term reliability.
How long does it take to change a transmission in a Dodge Caravan?
While this can vary due to factors like the model of your vehicle and the extent of damage, typically, a transmission replacement can take between 1 to 2 days, sometimes 3 to 4. This time frame includes removing the old transmission, installing the new one, and subsequent testing.
What is the recall on the Dodge Grand Caravan transmission?
If the transmission loses hydraulic pressure, the vehicle may lose motive power, increasing the risk of a crash. What You Should Do: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the transmission pump, free of charge. The recall began on August 18, 2016.
How much is a new transmission in a Dodge Caravan?
A Dodge Caravan transmission replacement can cost anywhere from $2,000 to over $9,000, depending on the type of replacement and where you go. A remanufactured transmission, which is a common and more affordable option, typically costs between $2,000 and $3,500 plus labor. A new, factory transmission from a dealership is often more expensive, with some quotes exceeding $9,000, but it may come with a better warranty.
Cost breakdown by transmission type
- Remanufactured/Rebuilt: A rebuilt or remanufactured transmission is a cost-effective option.
- Part cost: $2,000 to $3,500.
- Total cost: Expect around $2,000 to $3,500 for the part plus labor. Some remanufactured options have a $1,000 core deposit, which is refunded when the old transmission is returned, according to AutoZone.com.
- New (OEM): A new transmission from the manufacturer is the most expensive option but offers the highest quality and a longer warranty.
- Part cost: Over $3,500.
- Total cost: Can exceed $9,000 at a dealership.
- Used: A used transmission from a junkyard is the cheapest option, but it comes with the most risk and no warranty.
- Part cost: $500 to $1,000.
- Total cost: Likely around $2,000 total, including labor.
Factors affecting the final cost
- Labor: Labor is a significant factor in the total cost, with an automatic transmission replacement requiring six to 10 hours of labor.
- Location: Dealerships typically charge higher prices than independent mechanics.
- Warranty: New transmissions are more expensive, but a new or remanufactured transmission with a warranty offers more protection.
- Other parts: The transmission replacement may require additional parts, such as a new cooler and transmission fluid, which will add to the total cost.
Is it ever worth replacing a transmission?
Whether replacing a transmission is worth it depends on a cost-benefit analysis of the vehicle's age, its total value, the cost of the replacement, and your own plans for the car. If the repair cost is less than 30-40% of the car's current value, or if you plan to keep the vehicle for several more years, replacement may be a good investment. However, if the car is older and has other issues, or if the replacement cost is close to or exceeds the car's worth, it may be better to consider selling the vehicle.
Factors to consider
This video explains the factors to consider when deciding whether to replace your car's transmission: 42sNexologyYouTube · Sep 4, 2025
- Vehicle's value: Compare the cost of replacement to the car's current market value. If the repair is more than 30-40% of the car's worth, it may not be a good financial decision.
- Vehicle's condition: If the rest of the car is in good condition with no major issues, a transmission replacement can be a worthwhile investment. However, if the car has many other problems, it may be better to cut your losses.
- Your plans for the car: If you plan to keep the vehicle for several more years, replacing the transmission is more likely to be worth the cost. If you only plan to keep it for a year or two, it may not be.
- Cost of the replacement: Costs can range from $1,500 to over $8,000, depending on the vehicle and the type of transmission (new, rebuilt, or used). Be sure to factor in labor costs as well.
- Reliability of the model: Some car models have a history of transmission problems, which may make replacement less desirable.
Options for replacement
- New transmission: This is often the most expensive option, but it comes with a new warranty.
- Remanufactured transmission: A remanufactured unit has been rebuilt to "as-new" condition and often comes with a good warranty, making it a solid choice.
- Used transmission: This is the cheapest option but comes with the highest risk, as you don't know its history. It is generally not recommended unless you can test it first.
