How much does it cost to mount a transmission?

Most drivers should plan for about $2,000 to $5,000 for a typical transmission installation on a standard passenger car, with higher-end vehicles or complex setups reaching $7,000 or more.

Installing a transmission involves more than dropping in a new unit. Costs vary depending on whether you supply a used, rebuilt/remanufactured, or new transmission, the vehicle’s make and model, and the local labor market. This article breaks down typical price ranges, key factors that influence price, and tips for getting reliable estimates.

Typical cost ranges for transmission installation

Here are common scenarios that influence what you’ll pay for mounting a transmission. The ranges reflect typical U.S. shop prices for passenger cars and light trucks and include both parts and labor under standard conditions.

• Used or remanufactured transmission installed (economy option): roughly $1,800–$3,500 total.


• Remanufactured or rebuilt transmission with a new core or upgraded components: roughly $2,500–$5,000 total.


• New OEM transmission (brand-new unit): roughly $3,000–$7,000 total.


• Specialty, high-performance, or heavy-duty transmissions (luxury brands, diesel, AWD/4WD): roughly $5,000–$12,000 total.

Note: These ranges typically include parts, labor, and standard fluids. Taxes, core charges, disposal fees, and other shop extras may apply. Some jobs also require additional work (clutch replacement, flywheel resurfacing, torque converter, or new seals) that can push the total higher.

Key factors that influence cost

Prices aren’t fixed and can swing based on several practical considerations. Understanding these can help you budget and compare quotes more accurately.

• Labor rates by region and shop size (independent shops often cost less than dealers, though warranties may differ).


• Transmission type and vehicle configuration (automatic vs manual, front-wheel drive vs AWD/4WD, diesel or high-performance variants).


• Whether engine/transmission removal is required to access the unit (some layouts are more labor-intensive).


• Ancillary components and services (clutch replacement for manuals, flywheel resurfacing, torque converter, seals, bearings, mounts, fluid flushes).


• Quality of the transmission (used, remanufactured, or new OEM/aftermarket) and warranty terms.


• Core charges, availability of parts, and whether you supply your own unit.


• Additional repairs or replacements identified during installation (electrical connections, sensors, or drivetrain components).

In short, the dollar amount is driven by the unit you choose, the complexity of the installation, and the labor market where you’re receiving service. Always confirm what the quote covers and what it does not before authorizing work.

Getting an estimate

To budget accurately, gather details, compare quotes from multiple shops, and ask for itemized invoices. This helps avoid surprises once the job starts.

Steps to obtain reliable quotes

Use these steps to collect precise, apples-to-apples estimates from shops.

1. Know your vehicle details: year, make, model, engine type, transmission type, and whether AWD/4WD is present.


2. Ask for an itemized quote that separates parts, labor, fluids, and any miscellaneous fees.


3. Clarify what is included: core charges, recycling fees, disposal, warranty length, and whether a re-flash or ancillary electronic work is needed.


4. Get quotes from at least three reputable shops or dealers to compare price, turnaround time, and warranty terms.


5. Inquire about potential add-ons or needed repairs that could arise after inspection (e.g., mounting brackets, seals, or sensors).


6. Review the shop’s credentials, labor hours estimated, and reviews to assess reliability and workmanship.

Keeping these steps in mind can help you secure a fair price and a reliable repair, rather than a price alone.

Summary

Replacing or mounting a transmission is a major automotive job with a broad price range that reflects the vehicle, the chosen transmission type, and local labor costs. Budget typically falls in the low to mid five-figure range for most passenger cars when opting for a rebuilt or remanufactured unit, with higher totals for new OEM transmissions or specialty applications. To avoid surprises, obtain multiple, detailed, itemized estimates, and confirm what is included in each quote, including warranties and potential additional costs.

How much does a transmission mount cost?

How Much Does a Transmission Mount Replacement Cost? A replacement transmission mount is quite affordable, with prices ranging from less than $10 to around $500 depending on the number of mounts included in the package, the material, and the vehicle it's for.

How long does it take to mount a transmission?

Now, addressing the primary concern: “How long does it take to replace a transmission?” On average, the process can take anywhere from one to two days. This time frame includes the removal of the old transmission, installation of the new one, and post-installation testing to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Can I drive with a worn transmission mount?

Yes, it is dangerous to drive with a bad transmission mount because it can lead to a loss of vehicle control, cause further damage to other components, and potentially create a safety hazard. A bad mount allows the transmission to move excessively, which can misalign the drivetrain, strain other parts like driveshafts and CV joints, and result in serious damage. 
This video explains the symptoms of a bad transmission mount and why it's dangerous to drive with one: 1mMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Sep 17, 2023
Risks of driving with a bad transmission mount

• Loss of control: Excessive movement from a failing mount can shift the engine and transmission, leading to poor handling and, in severe cases, a loss of control, especially during sharp turns or high speeds. 
• Component damage: The excessive movement can put stress on other parts of the drivetrain, causing them to become misaligned or damaged. This can lead to more expensive repairs down the line for components like driveshafts, shift linkages, or CV joints. 
• Safety hazards: In worst-case scenarios, the engine or transmission could move so much that it crushes other parts, like brake or fuel lines, which could lead to a fire or brake failure. 
• Costly repairs: Ignoring the problem can cause a chain reaction of damage that is much more expensive to fix than simply replacing the worn mount. 
• Poor driving experience: You will likely experience increased vibration, clunking, or thumping noises, particularly when shifting gears or driving over bumps. 

You can watch this video to learn about the signs of a bad transmission mount and the damage it can cause: 54sHonest Mechanic ColoradoYouTube · Mar 12, 2024
What to do

• If you suspect a bad transmission mount, avoid driving the vehicle if possible. 
• If you must drive it, do so cautiously and for the shortest distance necessary. 
• Have the vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic immediately to prevent further damage and ensure your safety. 

How much is labor for transmission installation?

The labor cost to install a transmission typically ranges from $500 to $1,200 or more, but can be as high as $2,270 or more for complex jobs. This cost varies based on the vehicle's make and model, shop rates, and the complexity of the installation, with the total time for a remove and replace (R&R) job often estimated between 4 and 10 hours. 
Factors influencing labor cost

• Vehicle complexity: Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles often require more labor time than rear-wheel drive models, which can increase costs. 
• Shop rates: Labor rates vary by location, with shops in metropolitan areas potentially charging more. 
• Time required: The job can take anywhere from 4 to 12 hours or more, depending on the specific vehicle and its accessibility. 
• Additional work: Installing a new torque converter, seals, or gaskets can add to the total labor time. 

How to estimate your specific cost

1. Estimate labor hours: The average is often 4–8 hours, but it's best to get a specific estimate for your vehicle. 
2. Determine the hourly rate: Multiply the estimated labor hours by the shop's hourly rate. For example, 8 hours at a rate of $125/hour would be approximately $1,000. 
3. Get multiple quotes: It is advisable to get quotes from several different mechanics to compare prices.