How much does a Lexus transmission cost?
Expect roughly $3,000–$7,000 for a rebuilt or remanufactured Lexus transmission, and about $6,000–$10,000 or more for a brand-new OEM unit installed by a dealer; hybrids and eCVTs can push costs higher depending on model and components.
Prices vary by model, region, and whether you buy a new OEM part, a rebuilt unit, or a used transmission. This article outlines the typical options, the factors that influence price, and practical steps to shop for a replacement.
Option types and price ranges
Below are the common replacement options and their typical price ranges, based on current market data. The exact price in your area will depend on model, labor rates, part choice, and any additional work required.
- New OEM Lexus transmission from a dealer: Typical total cost, including parts and labor, often in the 6,000–10,000 USD range; in some higher-end models or regions it can exceed $10,000.
- Remanufactured/rebuilt transmission: Parts typically 2,500–4,500 USD; labor about 800–2,000 USD; total commonly 3,300–6,500 USD; some shops offer longer warranties.
- Used or salvaged transmission with professional installation: Parts around 1,000–3,000 USD; labor 700–1,800 USD; total roughly 1,700–4,800 USD; warranties are often limited or unavailable.
- Hybrid/eCVT models: Because of additional components and complexity, quotes can run higher, often 4,000–9,000 USD or more, depending on the model and required integration with other systems.
- Note on labor and fluids: Some estimates assume no additional repairs; actual cost may increase if seals, torque converters, valve bodies, or cooling lines need replacement.
As a rule, prices vary widely by model and location, so it pays to obtain multiple quotes and compare what’s included in each price (fluids, gaskets, new parts, and warranty terms).
Model-specific factors and additional considerations
Most Lexus sedans and SUVs use automatic transmissions sourced from manufacturers like Aisin, with hybrids relying on an electronic CVT (eCVT). The hybrid variants tend to be more expensive to replace due to the integration with the inverter and battery systems. Non-hybrid transmissions generally fall toward the lower end of the ranges listed above, while hybrid/eCVT replacements often sit at the higher end.
New vs. used vs. rebuilt: weighing the trade-offs
Choosing a brand-new OEM transmission offers factory warranties and the latest design improvements but comes at a premium. Remanufactured units balance cost and reliability with warranty options. Used transmissions are the least expensive upfront but carry higher risk and typically weaker or shorter warranties. Your choice should consider the vehicle’s value, mileage, and your risk tolerance.
Practical steps to shop for a transmission replacement
To maximize value and avoid surprises, follow these steps when shopping for a Lexus transmission replacement:
- Obtain multiple written quotes from both a Lexus dealer and independent shops that specialize in transmissions.
- Ask what’s included in the price: parts (OEM vs aftermarket), fluids, gaskets, labor, and any ancillary work (torque converter, seals, cooling lines).
- Clarify warranty terms for parts and labor, and the duration of the warranty.
- Request a detailed scope of work and a projected timeline for the replacement.
- Consider the vehicle’s current value and mileage to decide whether a rebuild, remanufacture, or a full replacement makes the most sense.
For many owners, a well-chosen remanufactured or rebuilt transmission paired with a solid warranty offers a balance of reliability and cost. New OEM units are a good option for high-mileage or luxury configurations where preserving resale value is important.
Summary
In 2025, most Lexus transmission replacements fall into a broad range: roughly 3,000–7,000 USD for rebuilt/remanufactured units, and about 6,000–10,000 USD or more for a brand-new OEM transmission installed by a dealer. Hybrid/eCVT configurations tend to push costs higher due to added complexity. To avoid sticker shock, shop around, compare quotes carefully, and verify warranty coverage. Keeping an eye on maintenance—like timely transmission fluid changes and addressing warning signs early—can help extend the life of the unit and protect the big-picture value of your vehicle.
How much is a new transmission for a Lexus?
Lexus Transmission Cost
The cost of a new Lexus transmission could be over $3,500 depending on the vehicle, however, transmission services such as fluid changes and a transmission fluid flush are considerably less expensive, in some cases costing less than $150.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace a transmission?
It is cheaper to repair a transmission if the damage is minor, like a leak or a sensor issue, which can cost a few hundred dollars. However, if the damage is extensive and involves multiple internal components, replacing the entire transmission (with a new, remanufactured, or used one) will likely be more expensive but may be the more cost-effective choice in the long run, as a rebuild is cheaper than a replacement but may result in issues sooner than a new transmission.
Repair
- Cost: $300−$1,400$ 300 minus $ 1 comma 400$300−$1,400 for minor repairs.
- Best for: Small, isolated problems like a leaky seal, a faulty sensor, or a worn clutch.
- Considerations: Only addresses the specific problem; may not be a long-term solution if there are other underlying issues.
Replacement
- Cost: $1,800−$8,000+$ 1 comma 800 minus $ 8 comma 000 plus$1,800−$8,000+, depending on the type of replacement (used, remanufactured, or new).
- Best for: Major internal failures, such as broken gears or a damaged torque converter.
- Considerations: Generally the most expensive option but provides the most peace of mind and a "like new" transmission.
Rebuild
- Cost: $2,000−$5,000$ 2 comma 000 minus $ 5 comma 000$2,000−$5,000 or more.
- Best for: Transmissions that have multiple issues, but are not so severely damaged that a complete replacement is the only option.
- Considerations: More expensive than a simple repair but cheaper than a full replacement, though the long-term reliability may be less than a new unit.
How to decide
- Get a diagnosis: A professional mechanic can pinpoint the exact problem, which is crucial for making the right decision.
- Compare costs: If the repair cost is more than half the price of a replacement, a replacement may be the more cost-effective option.
- Consider vehicle value: If the car is old or has high mileage, the cost of repair or replacement might be more than the vehicle is worth, making it not a good investment.
How much does a full transmission replacement cost?
A full transmission replacement typically costs between $2,900 and $7,100, though the final price can vary significantly based on your vehicle's make and model, the type of replacement (new, remanufactured, or used), and labor costs. Some estimates place the average new transmission part cost at $1,800 to $3,400, with labor adding another $500 to $1,200.
Factors that influence the cost
- Vehicle make and model: Luxury, performance, or imported vehicles often have higher costs due to specialized and less available parts.
- Type of transmission: Manual transmissions are generally cheaper to replace than automatic ones.
- Type of replacement:
- New: Typically the most expensive option.
- Remanufactured: A cost-effective alternative to new, often saving hundreds or thousands of dollars.
- Used: Usually the cheapest option, but availability and reliability can vary.
- Labor: The cost of labor varies by location and shop. Some estimates suggest labor can range from $500 to $1,200 or more.
- Additional parts and fees: Taxes and other associated fees will also increase the final price.
How to save money
- Shop around: Get quotes from multiple mechanics or dealerships to compare prices.
- Consider a remanufactured transmission: This can be a good balance of cost and reliability compared to new or used options.
- Buy your own parts: In some cases, you may be able to save money by purchasing the transmission yourself, but ensure it is compatible with your vehicle before doing so.
- Explore rebuilding: Instead of a full replacement, ask about the cost of having your existing transmission professionally rebuilt, which can be less expensive.
How much is a new transmission for a Lexus IS350?
The cost of a new Lexus IS 350 transmission could be over $3,500 depending on the car, however, transmission services such as fluid changes and a transmission fluid flush are greatly less expensive, in some cases costing less than $150.
