How much does it cost to replace a transmission in a Chevy truck?
Typical installed cost ranges from roughly $3,000 to $7,000, depending on the model and the replacement option chosen.
Replacing a Chevy truck’s transmission is a major repair that varies widely based on the vehicle’s model, the type of transmission, the replacement approach (remanufactured, new factory, or used), labor rates, and any related parts that must be replaced. Below is a detailed look at the factors that influence price and the common price ranges you can expect in today’s market.
What drives the price
Several factors determine the final bill for a transmission replacement. Understanding these helps you compare quotes and plan your budget.
Key factors that affect price
- Replacement option: remanufactured/rebuilt, new factory, or used/refurbished units each carry different parts costs and warranties.
- Vehicle model and configuration: light-duty Silverado 1500 and Colorado typically cost less to replace than heavy-duty Silverado 2500HD/3500HD, especially if a Duramax diesel is involved.
- Labor rates and time: independent shops may charge $75–$125 per hour; dealers can be higher, and total labor often ranges from 6 to 12 hours for light-duty trucks and longer for HD models.
- Additional parts and services: torque converter, flywheel, transmission cooler lines, fluids, filters, and sometimes a new radiator or related components.
- Core charges and warranties: reman units may involve a core charge; warranties vary by supplier and shop.
Concluding: Most buyers experience the price range as a blend of parts cost, labor, and the option they choose, with diesel/HD configurations tending to push costs higher.
Cost by Chevy truck model
Prices differ by model. The figures below reflect typical installed costs as of the current market, with a range to account for regional differences and shop rates.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (light-duty)
Introductory note: These ranges are for automatic transmissions common on the Silverado 1500.
- Remanufactured/rebuilt transmission with installation: $3,000–$5,800
- New factory transmission with installation: $4,500–$9,000
- Used/refurbished replacement with installation: $2,000–$4,000
Concluding: For most Silverado 1500 owners, a rebuilt remanufactured unit offers a solid balance of cost and warranty, but a new factory unit increases reliability at a higher price.
Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD / 3500HD (heavy-duty; gasoline or Duramax)
Introductory note: Duramax diesel transmissions and HD configurations drive higher costs.
- Remanufactured transmission with installation: $5,000–$9,000 (parts) plus $1,500–$2,500 labor; total commonly $6,500–$11,500
- New factory transmission with installation: $7,500–$12,000 (parts) plus $1,500–$3,000 labor; total commonly $9,000–$15,000
- Used/refurbished replacement with installation: $3,500–$7,000
Concluding: Diesel/HD trucks can push replacement costs into the five-figure range, especially when a full new unit or high-end reman is chosen.
Chevrolet Colorado (mid-size)
Introductory note: Colorado models generally have smaller transmissions but still require significant labor.
- Remanufactured/rebuilt with installation: $2,500–$4,500
- New factory with installation: $3,800–$6,000
- Used/refurbished with installation: $2,000–$3,500
Concluding: Colorado owners often see mid-size ranges that are more affordable than full-size HD trucks, though prices still vary with parts and labor choices.
Practical considerations and tips
Getting the best value involves planning and comparison shopping. Consider these steps when budgeting for a transmission replacement.
How to shop for the best price
- Get quotes from at least 3 shops, including a dealership and independent shops.
- Confirm the transmission type and compatibility with your VIN to avoid fitment issues.
- Ask for a breakdown of parts vs. labor and the hourly rate; inquire about core charges and warranty length.
- Ask whether related components (torque converter, flywheel, cooler lines) are included or recommended for replacement.
- Check if the price includes a fluid change and a diagnostic check after installation.
Concluding: A written estimate with a clear parts/labor split, warranty details, and completion timeline helps you compare apples to apples and avoid surprise charges.
Summary
Replacing a transmission in a Chevy truck is a major repair with costs varying widely by model, transmission type, and replacement option. In typical scenarios for a light-duty Silverado 1500 or Colorado, you can expect installed costs around $3,000–$7,000, with HD models or diesel versions often pushing beyond that range to $9,000–$15,000 or more when new factory units are chosen. Labor rates, regional differences, and added components (torque converter, cooler lines, etc.) all influence the final price. To get the best deal, collect multiple written estimates, understand the warranty terms, and weigh remanufactured versus new versus used options based on reliability and long-term cost.
