How much does it cost to replace a transmission in a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan?
Replacing the transmission in a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan typically costs roughly $3,500 to $7,000 installed, depending on whether you choose a rebuilt/remanufactured unit, a brand-new OEM transmission, or a used/transmission from a salvage source, as well as local labor rates.
To understand the question in more detail, the 2016 Grand Caravan uses a 6‑speed automatic transmission (commonly referred to as the 62TE). When it fails, owners must decide among several options—remanufactured, new OEM, or used—each with its own price band, warranty terms, and potential risks. The final price is influenced by where you go (dealer vs. independent shop), your geographic region, and any ancillary work required (torque converter, sensors, cooling lines, fluid services, and labor).
What you’re paying for
Below are the common options you’ll encounter when replacing the transmission, along with typical installed price ranges.
- Remanufactured/Rebuilt transmission — A rebuilt unit with updated components and a warranty. Typical installed price range: approximately $3,500 to $5,500.
- New OEM transmission — A brand-new unit from the manufacturer with a full warranty. Typical installed price range: about $4,000 to $7,000 (dealer prices can be higher).
- Used or salvaged transmission — A lower-cost option from a wrecked vehicle or salvage yard. Typical installed price range: about $2,000 to $4,000, often with a shorter or limited warranty and higher risk.
- Labor and time considerations — Replacements generally require 6 to 12 hours of shop time, with labor rates commonly in the $75–$150 per hour range.
- Other potential charges — Diagnostic fees, fluids, torque converter replacement (if needed), seals, mounts, and taxes may apply; some shops include the converter in the package, others bill separately.
Every installation is unique, so it’s wise to obtain multiple written quotes that itemize parts, labor, and any ancillary charges.
What affects the price
Several factors can push the final price higher or lower than these ranges. Here are the main ones to consider:
- Shop type and location (dealer vs independent, urban vs rural)
- Availability and condition of a core (for remanufactured units, returning a core can affect price)
- Warranty length and type (factory-backed vs third-party)
- Need for additional parts or services (torque converter, sensors, cooling lines, seals)
- Potential ancillary repairs tied to the failure (radiator, transmission cooler, wiring harness)
To minimize risk, request a warranty that covers both parts and labor and confirm what is included before authorizing the work.
What to expect during replacement (brief overview)
Understanding the process helps with planning and expectations. Typical steps include:
- Diagnosis and confirmation of transmission failure
- Removal of the old transmission and related components
- Installation of the chosen replacement (remanufactured, new OEM, or used)
- Replacement of the torque converter if required, plus fluids and filters
- Reassembly, system checks, and a road test to verify proper operation
Note that a repair of this scope often includes a final diagnostic and test drive to ensure the issue is resolved.
Summary
For a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan, installed transmission replacement costs typically fall in the broad range of roughly $3,500 to $7,000, depending on whether you opt for a remanufactured, new OEM, or used transmission, as well as local labor rates and shop policies. The cheapest route is usually a used/transmission from a salvage yard, while the most expensive is a brand-new OEM unit. Always obtain multiple quotes that itemize parts, labor, and any ancillary charges, and verify warranty coverage before proceeding.
