How much does it cost to get a transmission rebuilt?
For most vehicles, a transmission rebuild costs roughly $2,000 to $4,000, depending on whether the transmission is automatic, manual, or a CVT, as well as the make, model, and where you live. Luxury, heavy‑duty, or high‑performance units can push prices higher. This article breaks down typical costs, factors that affect pricing, and how to shop for a rebuild.
What affects the price
Rebuild costs are driven by labor rates, the complexity of the transmission, parts required, and any ancillary work that’s needed. Some shops include diagnostic fees or provide warranties, while others charge separately. The vehicle’s make and model also shapes the parts and labor required.
Below are typical price ranges for a transmission rebuild by type of transmission. Your actual quote may vary depending on the car and location.
- Automatic transmissions (traditional torque converter): typically $2,000–$4,000 for a rebuild, depending on parts and labor.
- Manual transmissions: about $1,000–$2,500 for a rebuild, usually cheaper due to fewer complex components.
- Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT): rebuilds commonly run $3,000–$6,000 due to special parts and calibration requirements.
- Heavy-duty or luxury-level transmissions (gas or diesel pickups, SUVs, or high‑performance units): $4,000–$7,000 or more, depending on vehicle and parts needed.
These figures reflect typical quotes from independent repair shops and can vary by region, shop labor rates, and component availability. Always request a written estimate that breaks out parts and labor.
Prices vary widely, and it’s wise to compare multiple quotes. Consider the warranty offered and whether it covers parts, labor, or both, as well as what’s included in the rebuild (fluids, gaskets, and any required upgrades).
Other cost considerations
Beyond the rebuild itself, several additional costs can appear. Here are common price drivers you may encounter during the bidding process.
Before listing these factors, note that the final cost often depends on the extent of damage, the vehicle’s age, and the availability of core components.
- Diagnostic and shop fees: many shops charge a diagnostic fee to confirm the problem, typically around $80–$120.
- Parts and ancillary components: seals, gaskets, bearings, clutch packs, and fluid can add hundreds of dollars; some jobs require a new torque converter or pump.
- Core charges and warranties: some shops apply a core charge and offer warranties that range from 12 to 36 months; longer warranties may raise the upfront price but offer protection over time.
- Extended downtime and labor variance: if parts aren’t readily available or the job requires extra labor due to design complexity, the clock on labor hours can extend the total cost.
To prepare, obtain multiple written estimates with a clear breakdown of parts, labor hours, fees, and warranty terms. Ask specifically what is included (fluids, gaskets, and additional components) and whether you’ll receive any core credit for returning a damaged unit.
Replacement vs rebuild: a quick comparison
Shoppers often consider whether to rebuild the existing transmission or install a remanufactured/replacement unit. A rebuild focuses on refurbishing the current transmission and can be cheaper upfront, but it depends on adequate condition of the case and components. A remanufactured unit comes as a factory‑rebuilt assembly, usually with a warranty, and may reduce downtime and future reliability concerns but can cost substantially more upfront. Always weigh the total cost, downtime, and warranty coverage when deciding.
Summary
In general, a transmission rebuild costs about $2,000–$4,000 for most automatic transmissions, with manual transmissions typically cheaper and CVTs or heavy‑duty units tending toward the higher end. Regional differences, labor rates, and the specific vehicle type can shift these numbers. Getting multiple written estimates, understanding what each quote covers, and checking warranty terms will help you choose the best option for your car and budget.
How long does it take a professional to rebuild a transmission?
A shop will typically take 3 to 5 days to rebuild a transmission, though the process can take longer due to factors like the complexity of the repair, the availability of replacement parts, and the shop's workload. A full rebuild is a time-intensive process that involves removing the transmission, disassembling it, replacing worn components, cleaning, reassembling, and testing.
Factors that influence the timeline
- Complexity of the job: A simple manual transmission rebuild may be quicker, while a more complex modern automatic transmission can take longer.
- Part availability: The timeline can be significantly impacted if certain parts are on backorder or difficult to source.
- Shop workload: The shop's current queue of vehicles needing repair can cause delays, even if the actual rebuild work is performed quickly.
- Damage severity: The extent of the damage can determine the number of parts that need to be replaced, which affects the total time required.
What a rebuild includes
- Removing the transmission from the vehicle
- Disassembling the transmission
- Cleaning all components
- Replacing worn parts, such as seals, clutches, bands, and solenoids
- Reassembling the transmission
- Reinstalling the transmission in the vehicle
- A test drive to ensure proper function
Is it worth it to have your transmission rebuilt?
Short answer: Often yes -- a rebuilt transmission is a cost-effective middle ground between replacement and repair, provided you evaluate the rebuild quality, vehicle value, and long-term needs. Below is a structured way to decide. Vehicle value and age: Good choice for cars worth at least 1.5--3× the rebuild cost.
How much does a rebuilt transmission usually cost?
Remanufactured transmission – $1,300 to $3,400. Used/Salvage – $800 to $1,500. Rebuilt – $1,100 to $2,800.
What is cheaper to rebuild or replace a transmission?
It is cheaper to rebuild a transmission than to replace it, but a replacement may be the better option for widespread damage or if the vehicle is older. Rebuilding involves replacing only the worn parts and typically costs between $2,000 and $3,500, while a full replacement can range from $4,000 to $7,000.
Rebuild
- Pros:
- Lower upfront cost: This is the more affordable option, especially if the damage is limited to wear and tear rather than a catastrophic failure.
- Extends lifespan: It can give your car's transmission a new lease on life.
- Cons:
- Potential for future issues: Since the transmission case and some internal hard parts are not new, they could fail sooner than a brand new transmission.
- Takes longer: The process of disassembling, identifying, and replacing parts is more time-consuming.
Replace
- Pros:
- Greater reliability: A brand new or remanufactured transmission has no wear and tear, offering a longer and more durable solution.
- Less downtime: The swap is faster than a complete rebuild.
- Cons:
- Higher upfront cost: This is the most expensive option.
When to choose which
- Choose a rebuild if: The transmission's structural case is sound and the problem is limited to internal components like seals or clutch packs.
- Choose a replacement if: The transmission has widespread internal damage, the vehicle is very old, or you want the highest possible reliability and are willing to pay a premium.
