How much is it to replace a transmission?

Replacing a transmission is a major repair with costs that vary widely based on vehicle type, the replacement option chosen, and regional labor rates. The price range you’ll see in most shops reflects both parts and labor over a multi‑hour job.

For a quick takeaway: expect roughly $2,000 to $4,000 for a rebuilt or remanufactured automatic transmission installed, with new OEM units often landing in the $4,000 to $8,000 range or higher. Manuals tend to be somewhat cheaper, while CVTs and high‑end or luxury vehicles can push costs higher. Labor typically accounts for a large share of the total, usually between about $500 and $1,500 depending on your location and the shop. Opting for a used or salvage transmission can reduce price but comes with greater risk and variable reliability.

What affects the price

Prices are driven by several practical factors. Understanding them can help you compare quotes and make an informed decision.

• Transmission type and complexity, including automatic, manual, CVT (continuously variable transmission), or dual‑clutch systems.


• Replacement option chosen: rebuilt/remanufactured, new OEM, or used/salvage transmissions.


• Vehicle make, model, and year — some platforms have readily available parts, others require specialized units.


• Labor rates by region and shop, as well as the time required for removal, installation, and any necessary programming or adaptation.


• Additional components and services that might be needed (torque converter, clutch kit, flywheel, fluid and filter, new sensors, wiring, and software updates).


• Warranty length and coverage on parts and labor, which can affect upfront cost but may save money over time.

In practice, the final bill is a combination of parts cost, labor intensity, and any ancillary work the shop discovers during the job. It’s common for customers to receive slightly different estimates from different shops for the same scenario.

Typical price ranges by scenario

Below are approximate ranges to help you gauge what you might pay, depending on the path you choose. Real prices depend on your car and location, so use these as a baseline when comparing quotes.

• Automatic transmission — rebuilt/remanufactured, installed: $2,000 to $4,000


• Automatic transmission — new OEM unit, installed: $4,000 to $8,000


• Manual transmission — rebuilt, installed: $1,500 to $2,500


• Manual transmission — new, installed: $2,500 to $4,000


• CVT or dual‑clutch transmission — rebuilt or remanufactured: $3,000 to $8,000


• Used or salvage transmission replacement (installed): $1,000 to $3,000

These ranges reflect common market conditions in the United States and similar economies as of the last couple of years. Luxury, performance, or limited‑production vehicles often sit at the higher end, while economy cars may fall toward the lower end. Always verify with local shops for a tailored quote.

Cost modifiers and alternatives

Before deciding, consider both the feasibility and value of alternatives to a full transmission replacement. This can affect overall cost and reliability.

• Repair instead of replace: In some cases, a failing transmission can be repaired by replacing worn components (solenoids, valve bodies, seals) at a fraction of a full replacement cost.


• Warranty and certification: A remanufactured or rebuilt unit with a solid warranty can add upfront value and peace of mind.


• Programming and adapting: Some transmissions require software updates or adaptations to work with the vehicle’s computer systems, which adds to the labor cost.


• Vehicle age and overall condition: If the car has high mileage or other impending drivetrain issues, a replacement might be weighed against investing in a newer vehicle.

Discuss all available options with your mechanic. A good shop will explain whether a repair is viable, estimate the full replacement cost, and outline any warranties or aftercare required.

What to ask your shop

Before you authorize a replacement, ask targeted questions to ensure you’re getting clear, comparable bids.

• Is the estimate for a rebuilt/remanufactured unit, a brand‑new OEM unit, or a used/transmission from a salvage source?


• What does the warranty cover (parts, labor, and duration), and what are the terms?


• Are there required updates or programming, and who handles them?


• What is included in the estimate (fluids, new filters, mounts, torque converter, sensors)?


• What is the expected turnaround time and whether a loaner car or courtesy shuttle is available?

Getting these details upfront helps you compare apples to apples and reduces the chance of surprise charges as the work progresses.

Is DIY feasible?

Replacing a transmission is technically possible for experienced DIY mechanics, but it is a complex, timing‑sensitive job that requires specialized tools and space. For most drivers, professional installation is safer and more cost‑effective when you factor in misdiagnosis risk and potential for further damage.

When to consider DIY carefully

If you have extensive mechanical experience, access to a well‑equipped shop, and a clear plan for parts and a proper diagnostic, you might handle certain components or a straightforward replacement. Otherwise, professional installation is recommended to ensure safety and reliability.

Next steps

To move forward, gather quotes from several reputable shops, and consider the total value beyond the price tag, including warranty, service history, and the shop’s reputation for transmission work. If you’re undecided, ask for a diagnostic to confirm the problem is actually the transmission and not a less expensive issue like a solenoid, sensor, or fluid condition.

Bottom line

Transmission replacement costs vary widely, but most consumers should budget roughly $2,000 to $4,000 for a rebuilt automatic transmission, $4,000 to $8,000 for a new OEM unit, and proportionally less for manuals or salvage options. The strongest savings come from understanding your options, obtaining multiple quotes, and choosing a solution that aligns with your vehicle’s value and reliability goals.

Summary: Replacing a transmission is a major, price‑sensitive repair influenced by transmission type, replacement method, vehicle model, and labor costs. Expect a broad range of prices and use informed comparisons to choose the best long‑term value for your car.

How do I know if transmission is bad?

You can tell a transmission is bad by noticing symptoms like unusual noises, slipping gears, delayed engagement, or a burning smell. Other signs include a transmission fluid leak, the "check engine" light being on, or the vehicle having trouble shifting or refusing to go into gear. 
Performance and shifting issues

• Slipping gears: The vehicle revs the engine, but the speed doesn't increase, or it feels like the car is shifting into neutral on its own. 
• Delayed or rough shifting: There's a hesitation when shifting into gear (like from park to drive), or shifts are not smooth and may involve a clunk or jolt. 
• Unresponsive: The vehicle doesn't move when you press the gas pedal, or it takes a long time to engage drive or reverse. 

Sounds and smells 

• Strange noises: Listen for grinding, clunking, humming, whining, or buzzing sounds, especially when shifting or when the car is in neutral. 
• Burning smell: A burning odor, often described as burnt toast, indicates that the transmission fluid may be overheating. 

Leaks and warnings

• Transmission fluid leaks: Red, oily puddles on the ground under your car are a clear sign of a leak. 
• "Check Engine" or other warning lights: A dashboard warning light can indicate a wide range of problems, including those with the transmission. 

What to do
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's best to have a professional mechanic inspect your transmission to prevent further damage.

Can I drive with a bad transmission?

No, you should not drive with a bad transmission, as it is dangerous and can cause significant damage. Driving with a faulty transmission can lead to unpredictable vehicle behavior, a complete loss of power, and severe, costly damage to your vehicle, possibly including the engine. It is best to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you notice any problems. 
This video explains how to recognize the signs of a bad transmission: 59sScotty KilmerYouTube · Jun 21, 2021
Risks of driving with a bad transmission

• Safety hazards: A failing transmission can cause unpredictable changes in speed or complete stalling, which is dangerous, especially on busy roads or highways. 
• Loss of control: The vehicle may have difficulty shifting gears or lose the ability to shift at all, making it difficult to control your speed or even move the car. 
• Severe damage: Driving with a bad transmission is similar to running an engine without oil—it causes friction and can lead to the destruction of internal components. This can make future repairs much more expensive and may even lead to the need for a total replacement. 
• Engine damage: While a faulty transmission won't directly damage the engine, excessive strain or high revving from constantly shifting or trying to compensate for a bad transmission can harm the engine. 

What you should do

• Get it serviced immediately: Take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic as soon as you notice any signs of transmission trouble, such as slipping, strange noises, or a warning light on your dashboard. 
• Avoid driving if possible: If the problem is severe, do not drive the vehicle at all. Continuing to drive will only worsen the damage and increase repair costs. 
• Check the transmission fluid: In some cases, low transmission fluid may be the cause of the problem. You can check the fluid level to see if this is the issue. If not, get a professional diagnosis. 

How much is a full transmission change?

Average transmission repair costs range from $300 to $1,400. For example, if your manual transmission needs a new clutch, you can reasonably expect to pay around $800 to $1,500. On the other hand, transmission replacement is one of the most expensive repairs you can get. Replacements can range from $1,800 to $3,400.

Is it worth replacing a transmission?

Whether replacing a transmission is worth it depends on a cost-benefit analysis of the vehicle's age, its total value, the cost of the replacement, and your own plans for the car. If the repair cost is less than 30-40% of the car's current value, or if you plan to keep the vehicle for several more years, replacement may be a good investment. However, if the car is older and has other issues, or if the replacement cost is close to or exceeds the car's worth, it may be better to consider selling the vehicle. 
Factors to consider 
This video explains the factors to consider when deciding whether to replace your car's transmission: 42sNexologyYouTube · Sep 4, 2025

• Vehicle's value: Compare the cost of replacement to the car's current market value. If the repair is more than 30-40% of the car's worth, it may not be a good financial decision. 
• Vehicle's condition: If the rest of the car is in good condition with no major issues, a transmission replacement can be a worthwhile investment. However, if the car has many other problems, it may be better to cut your losses. 
• Your plans for the car: If you plan to keep the vehicle for several more years, replacing the transmission is more likely to be worth the cost. If you only plan to keep it for a year or two, it may not be. 
• Cost of the replacement: Costs can range from $1,500 to over $8,000, depending on the vehicle and the type of transmission (new, rebuilt, or used). Be sure to factor in labor costs as well. 
• Reliability of the model: Some car models have a history of transmission problems, which may make replacement less desirable. 

Options for replacement

• New transmission: This is often the most expensive option, but it comes with a new warranty. 
• Remanufactured transmission: A remanufactured unit has been rebuilt to "as-new" condition and often comes with a good warranty, making it a solid choice. 
• Used transmission: This is the cheapest option but comes with the highest risk, as you don't know its history. It is generally not recommended unless you can test it first.