How much does it cost to replace a transmission in a Ford F-150?
The installed cost for replacing a Ford F-150 transmission typically ranges from about $3,000 to $7,000, depending on the transmission type, the replacement method, and where you get the work done. Higher-end options and dealer-installed units push toward the upper end, while used or rebuilt units at independent shops can be significantly cheaper.
Translating that into a practical estimate requires looking at several variables. The Ford F-150 uses different automatic transmissions across model years—from older 6-speed automatics to the more recent 10-speed units. The price you pay will depend on whether you buy a used or salvaged unit, a rebuilt/remanufactured transmission, or a brand-new OEM transmission from Ford or a dealer, as well as regional labor rates, core charges, and whether additional components (like a torque converter, new cooler lines, or software updates) are needed. Here’s a detailed look at what to expect.
What drives the price
Several factors determine the final bill for a transmission replacement on a Ford F-150. The most influential are the type of transmission (6-speed versus 10-speed), the replacement option (used/ salvaged, rebuilt/remanufactured, or new OEM), labor rates in your area, whether any ancillary parts must be replaced, and the warranty attached to the unit. Model year and whether the work is done by a dealership or an independent shop also play a role. In addition, a core charge and the potential need for related repairs (cooler lines, torque converter, or computer updates) can impact total costs.
Typical cost ranges
The following ranges reflect common installed costs (parts plus labor) for Ford F-150 transmission replacements in North America as of 2024–2025. They include standard fluids and a basic warranty where applicable, but exclude taxes and shop fees. Your exact price will vary by region, shop, and the specific unit chosen.
- Used or salvaged transmission (part cost plus labor): roughly $2,000–$4,500 total.
- Remanufactured or rebuilt transmission (with warranty, installed): roughly $3,000–$6,000 total.
- New OEM transmission from Ford or dealer (installed): roughly $4,500–$8,000 or more total.
The ranges above cover typical scenarios for both older 6-speed automatics and newer 10-speed automatics, including labor. They do not account for exceptionally high-cost regional labor rates, unusual complications, or extensive ancillary work. Always obtain multiple quotes and ask about included components (torque converter, software updates, fluids) and warranty terms.
Cost by transmission type and model year
The Ford F-150 has moved from older automatic transmissions to more complex 10-speed units in recent years. Price expectations generally reflect the complexity and availability of each transmission type.
Older 6-speed automatic transmissions (pre-2011 era)
Replacement costs for legacy 6-speed automatics tend to be lower overall because the units are older and parts are widely available. Typical installed ranges are:
- Used/refurbished unit with labor: about $2,200–$4,400 total.
- Remanufactured/newer equivalent with labor: about $3,000–$5,500 total.
Note: If a dealer-only or OEM-new unit is required, expect toward the higher end of the range. Core charges and compatibility checks can also affect final pricing. Always verify what’s included in the quote and whether the torque converter is included.
Modern 10-speed automatic transmissions (2017–present)
The 10-speed transmission, used on more recent F-150 models, is more expensive to replace due to increased complexity and drivetrain integration. Typical installed ranges are:
- Used/remanufactured 10-speed with labor: about $3,000–$6,000 total.
- New OEM 10-speed from Ford/dealer with labor: about $4,500–$8,000 or more total.
In practice, a dealer-installed 10-speed replacement can push toward the higher end, especially if updated software or extra cooling hardware is required. Regional labor rates and the inclusion (or exclusion) of a warranty will also influence the bottom line.
What to consider before you replace
Replacing a transmission is a significant repair with several options and trade-offs. Here are practical considerations to help you decide what to choose and what to expect during the process.
- Warranty and reliability: A remanufactured or rebuilt unit often comes with a warranty (ranging from 1 to 3 years or more). A brand-new OEM replacement may offer a longer or more comprehensive warranty but at a higher price.
- Vehicle age and overall condition: If the truck has high mileage or multiple issues, you may weigh a complete replacement vs. a salvage/used unit with added risk.
- Remaining life and resale value: A replacement with a newer or remanufactured transmission can extend the vehicle’s resale life and reliability.
- Costs beyond the transmission: Core charges, torque converter, transmission cooler lines, fluid flushes, and potential software updates can add to the bill.
What to expect during the replacement
In most shops, a transmission replacement on an F-150 involves dropping the old unit, mounting the new or rebuilt transmission, connecting a new torque converter, lines, sensors, and the shift linkage, then filling and testing the system. Typical labor time ranges from about 8 to 16 hours depending on the transmission type and the truck’s configuration, with hours billed at the shop’s standard rate. Road-test and a hill/dyno test may be included to ensure proper operation after installation.
Summary
For a Ford F-150, plan for a total installed cost of roughly $3,000 to $7,000, with variations driven by transmission type (6-speed vs 10-speed), replacement option (used, rebuilt/remanufactured, or new OEM), regional labor rates, and any additional parts or software needs. Independent shops tend to be on the lower end, while dealer or OEM-new replacements sit higher. To avoid surprises, obtain multiple written quotes, clarify what’s included (torque converter, fluids, warranty), and confirm who bears the core charge. If you’re weighing options, consider the long-term reliability and the vehicle’s remaining useful life to determine the best balance of cost and peace of mind.
