How much does it cost to replace a Dodge Dakota transmission?
The typical total cost to replace a Dodge Dakota transmission ranges from about $1,800 to $4,600, depending on the replacement path and the shop’s labor rate.
What drives the price
Several factors determine the final bill when replacing a Dodge Dakota transmission. The model year and engine (for example, 3.7L V6 or 4.7L V8), 2WD versus 4WD configuration, and the type of replacement (remanufactured, rebuilt, used, or new OEM) largely shape part and labor costs. Labor rates vary by region and shop, and some shops include or exclude components such as the torque converter, transmission cooler lines, and gaskets. A core charge may also apply if you supply your own unit or if the shop takes in a used core.
Replacement options and cost ranges
Below are the common approaches to replacing a Dodge Dakota transmission and typical total price ranges, combining parts and labor. Prices can vary by year, engine, drivetrain, and the shop's labor rate.
Remanufactured transmission (factory reman). Parts: about $1,900–$2,800. Labor: about $700–$1,400. Total: roughly $2,600–$4,200. Core charges are typically included or waived with warranty; warranties often span 3–5 years or 36,000–100,000 miles.
Rebuilt transmission (shop rebuild). Parts: about $1,200–$2,400. Labor: about $750–$1,400. Total: roughly $1,900–$3,800. Core charges may apply; warranty varies by shop.
Used transmission from a salvage yard. Parts: about $600–$1,600. Labor: about $600–$1,000. Total: roughly $1,200–$2,600. Usually limited or no warranty; verify compatibility with your Dakota.
New OEM transmission. Parts: about $2,800–$4,800. Labor: about $800–$1,600. Total: roughly $3,600–$6,400. Longer lead times in some cases; typically the strongest warranty coverage.
Note: The figures above assume standard installation and no major ancillary repairs. If related components fail or are replaced (radiator cooler, lines, or shifter linkage, for example), expect additional costs.
Notes on compatibility and warranties
Compatibility depends on the Dakota’s year, engine, and drivetrain (2WD vs. 4WD). Transmissions such as the 42RLE or other variants may require different mounting electronics. Warranties vary by supplier and by whether the unit is remanufactured, rebuilt, or used. Always confirm warranty terms and ensure the shop performs a diagnostic check to rule out related issues like a faulty torque converter or valve body problems.
Summary
Replacing a Dodge Dakota transmission is a substantial repair with a broad price range. Expect total costs to fall roughly between $1,800 and $4,600 for most configurations, with new OEM units pushing toward the higher end. To obtain an accurate quote, get written estimates from multiple shops, verify what’s included (torque converter, coolant lines, gaskets, warranty), and confirm compatibility with your Dakota’s specific engine and drivetrain configuration.
Is it worth it to replace a transmission?
Whether replacing a transmission is worth it depends on the vehicle's overall condition, age, and the cost of replacement versus buying a new car. It is likely worthwhile if the car is in good shape, has a reasonable purchase price after the repair, and the repair cost is less than the vehicle's value, especially since a broken transmission significantly lowers a car's resale price. For a vehicle with high mileage and other potential issues, it may be more practical to buy a new car.
When to replace the transmission
This video discusses the factors to consider when deciding whether to replace a transmission: 58scar PROblemsYouTube · Apr 17, 2025
- Cost vs. vehicle value: If the cost of replacing the transmission is less than the car's value after the repair, it is often a good investment.
- Overall condition: If the rest of the vehicle is in good shape, it makes sense to extend its life with a new transmission.
- Your plan: If you plan to keep the car for several more years, replacing the transmission can be a smart choice that provides reliability and avoids the immediate financial burden of buying a new vehicle.
- Car's reliability: If the car has a good history of reliability and is a make and model that tends to last a long time, it is a worthwhile investment.
- Warranties: Many replacement transmissions come with a warranty, which can provide peace of mind and make the cost more reasonable when spread over the extended life of the vehicle.
When it might not be worth it
This video explains the 50% rule to determine if replacing a transmission is financially justified: 42sNexologyYouTube · Sep 4, 2025
- Cost vs. vehicle value: If the repair cost is more than the car's current value, or a significant percentage of it (some experts suggest the "50% rule" where if the repair is over half the car's value, it might not be worth it).
- Age and mileage: If the vehicle is very old and has high mileage, other components may start to fail, and it may not be a good investment.
- Other issues: If the car already needs other expensive repairs, replacing the transmission may not be cost-effective.
- Poor transmission history: If the transmission has a history of frequent, recurring issues, it may indicate a chronic problem that will lead to future costly repairs.
How to decide
This video offers advice on deciding whether to replace or rebuild a transmission: 58sMercie J Auto Care, llcYouTube · Nov 14, 2024
- Get a professional diagnosis and quote: Have a mechanic thoroughly inspect the vehicle and provide a detailed estimate for the transmission replacement, including parts and labor.
- Determine your vehicle's current value: Find out what your car is worth on the open market.
- Compare the costs: Compare the repair estimate to your car's current value. Calculate if the repair cost is less than the value of the car after the repair is done.
- Consider your options: If it is not worth it, consider if a new or different used car would be a better long-term investment, even with the trade-in value of your current car being low.
- Factor in future costs: Take into account the age and condition of other components. If other parts are likely to need replacement soon, it might be better to buy a new car.
How much is a Dodge Dakota transmission?
Advance Auto Parts has 79 different Remanufactured Automatic Transmissions for your vehicle, ready for shipping or in-store pick up. The best part is, our Dodge Dakota Remanufactured Automatic Transmissions start from as little as $1,819.99.
What are common Dodge Dakota transmission problems?
One of the biggest Dodge Dakota transmission problems is slipping in-and-out of gear, and/or no gear engagement. Factory design flaws are the most common cause of these problems, and Street Smart Transmission has taken steps to correct all of them.
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.
