How much does an Acura transmission cost?

Prices typically range from roughly $2,500 to $8,000 installed, depending on the path you choose and your model.

When an Acura transmission issue surfaces—whether it’s slipping gears, harsh shifting, or a full failure—the financial picture isn’t the same for every driver. This guide lays out the typical price bands, what drives them, and practical tips to get a fair deal in 2024–2025.

What drives the price

Several variables determine the final bill, from the replacement approach to regional labor rates. Understanding these factors helps you compare quotes and decide whether a repair or a full replacement is appropriate for your car.

• Replacement option (new OEM, remanufactured, or used/salvage): The price of the unit itself varies dramatically by path.


• Vehicle model and year: Different Acura models use different transmissions or specifications, which affects parts and fitment.


• Labor rates and shop type: Dealerships typically charge more per hour than independent shops; location matters.


• Added components and services: Fluids, seals, torque converter, and electronics testing can add to the total.


• Warranty terms: Longer coverage for remanufactured or OEM replacements can influence upfront price and long-term value.

With these elements in mind, you’ll see why quotes for the same job can vary significantly between shops and regions.

Estimated price ranges by replacement option

Below are typical installed cost ranges you can expect for different approaches to replacing an Acura transmission. The figures cover parts and labor but may shift with model and market.

• New OEM transmission: Part roughly $4,000–$7,000; labor about $800–$2,000; total installed commonly $4,800–$9,000.


• Remanufactured/rebuilt transmission: Part roughly $2,500–$4,500; labor about $800–$2,000; total installed commonly $3,300–$6,500.


• Used or salvage transmission: Part roughly $1,500–$3,500; labor about $500–$1,500; total installed commonly $2,000–$5,000.

These ranges reflect typical market conditions and assume no unusual complications. Always request a written estimate that itemizes each component and any core charges.

Tips for getting a fair quote

Before authorizing work, use these steps to compare bids and reduce surprises.

• Get multiple written quotes from both dealers and independent shops.


• Ask for a complete breakdown: parts, labor, fluids, disposal, and core charges.


• Inquire about warranty coverage on parts and labor; remanufactured units often carry robust warranties.


• Clarify whether the price includes a torque converter replacement, flywheel work, or electronics calibration.

Following these tips helps you lock in value and avoid unnecessary add-ons.

Summary

For Acura owners facing a transmission issue, expect installed costs to fall in a broad band—from about $2,000 on the low end for a basic used unit with minimal labor to around $9,000 or more for a brand-new OEM transmission with full installation and warranty. The actual price depends on the model, the replacement path, and local labor rates, so shopping around and verifying warranty coverage is essential.

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 does it cost to replace an Acura transmission?

$3,000 to $5,000
Replacing an Acura transmission costs $3,000 to $5,000, depending on the model and labor costs.

Are acuras known for transmission problems?

Yes, older Acura models have had transmission problems, particularly from 1999-2004, with issues like slipping, faulty torque converters, and poor reliability. However, newer models have shown significant improvement, though some specific model years and transmissions, like the 9-speed in certain 2016-2020 RDX and MDX models, have been more prone to issues. Common problems across various models can include slipping, grinding, overheating, and jerky shifting. 
Common Acura transmission issues

• Transmission slipping: The engine revs, but the car doesn't accelerate properly. This can be caused by worn clutch packs, low fluid, or faulty solenoids. 
• Faulty torque converters: A relatively common problem in some models that can lead to jerking or slipping. 
• Grinding or jerky shifting: The car may make grinding noises or "jump" when changing gears, which can be due to worn parts or valve body issues. 
• Overheating: The transmission can overheat, often indicated by a burning smell or a warning light. 
• Contaminated or low fluid: This can be a symptom or cause of problems, and contaminated fluid can lead to internal damage. 

Model-specific notes

• Older models: The 1999-2004 automatic transmissions had design flaws that made them less reliable. 2nd and 3rd gen TLs were also known for transmission problems. 
• Mid-2010s models: Some 2016-2020 RDX and MDX models with the 9-speed automatic transmission have been linked to issues like slipping and jerky shifting. 
• Recent models: Newer generations of the MDX have shown significant reliability improvements. However, some reports of issues, like with the torque converter in certain recent RDX and TLX models, suggest potential first-year or factory defects that may need to be addressed. 

How to address potential issues

• Regular maintenance: Performing regular transmission fluid changes, especially using the correct fluid and following the manufacturer's schedule, can help prevent problems. 
• Address warning signs: Pay attention to signs like slipping, hard shifting, strange noises (whining, clunking), and warning lights. These indicate the need for a professional inspection. 
• Consult a mechanic: If you experience any of these symptoms, have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle to diagnose the problem and perform necessary repairs, such as a software update, fluid flush, or component replacement. 

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.