Loading

Will rebuilding a transmission fix it?

Rebuilding a transmission can potentially fix issues with a malfunctioning transmission, but it is not a guaranteed solution. The effectiveness of a transmission rebuild depends on the underlying cause of the transmission problem and the quality of the rebuild work.


Understanding Transmission Rebuilds


A transmission rebuild involves disassembling the transmission, inspecting all the components, replacing any worn or damaged parts, and then reassembling the transmission with new or refurbished parts. This process is typically performed by a professional mechanic or transmission specialist.


The goal of a transmission rebuild is to restore the transmission to its original factory specifications and performance. When done correctly, a transmission rebuild can address a wide range of issues, such as slipping gears, hard shifting, fluid leaks, and even complete transmission failure.


Factors That Affect Rebuild Effectiveness


Whether a transmission rebuild will fix the problem depends on several factors:



  • Underlying Cause: If the transmission issue is caused by a problem with the transmission itself, such as worn gears or bearings, a rebuild is more likely to be effective. However, if the problem is caused by an external issue, such as a faulty torque converter or a problem with the vehicle's electrical system, a rebuild may not solve the issue.

  • Quality of Rebuild: The quality of the rebuild work is crucial. A rebuild performed by an experienced and reputable mechanic using high-quality parts is more likely to be successful than a rebuild done by an inexperienced or less skilled technician.

  • Age and Mileage of the Transmission: Older transmissions with higher mileage may be more prone to issues and may not benefit as much from a rebuild as a younger, lower-mileage transmission.


It's important to note that a transmission rebuild is a significant and costly repair, often costing several thousand dollars. Before deciding to rebuild a transmission, it's essential to have a thorough diagnosis performed by a qualified mechanic to determine the root cause of the problem and the likelihood of a successful rebuild.


Conclusion


In summary, rebuilding a transmission can potentially fix transmission issues, but the effectiveness of the repair depends on the underlying cause of the problem and the quality of the rebuild work. It's crucial to have a professional diagnosis before deciding on a transmission rebuild to ensure it's the best course of action for your vehicle.

Can you fix a bad transmission without replacing it?


Transmissions can be repaired or replaced. the mechanic will determine which when they open up the transmission and assess the damage. Often, in modern automatics, it can be cheaper to simply replace the transmission.



What is replaced when a transmission is rebuilt?


An automatic transmission rebuild kit contains all the parts that, by design are going to eventually wear out, and consist mainly of new clutches, bands, seals, gaskets, bushings, bearings and internal transmission sealing rings along with a new transmission filter.



Will a transmission rebuild kit fix a transmission?


Using a transmission rebuild kit can restore your car's transmission to its original condition and save you a significant amount of money compared to buying a new transmission. However, it is important to note that not all transmission issues can be fixed with a rebuild kit.



Is it worth rebuilding a transmission?


If your vehicle is relatively new or has a high resale value, investing in a rebuilt transmission may be worthwhile. For older or low-value cars, it might not make financial sense. The quality of the rebuild is crucial. A reputable mechanic or transmission shop can ensure that the rebuilt transmission will last.



How long does a transmission last after being rebuilt?


between 100,000 to 200,000 miles
If a transmission is properly rebuilt by a skilled mechanic, it can often last between 100,000 to 200,000 miles or even more. The key to a long-lasting rebuilt transmission is addressing all the existing problems during the rebuild, using high-quality parts, and ensuring everything is assembled correctly.



Can you trust a rebuilt transmission?


Rebuilt transmissions are perfectly reliable provided that they were rebuilt correctly.



Does a rebuilt transmission reset miles?


The odometer does not rest with a new transmission or even if you replace the entire engine. That's because the odometer reflects the mileage of the entire car and all of its components and not just the transmission or the engine. That means that the new transmission will not affect the mileage.



How many miles does it take to break in a rebuilt transmission?


How long does the break-in period usually last? - The break-in period typically lasts for the first 500 to 1,000 miles of driving.



How much should I pay for a rebuilt transmission?


Remanufactured transmission – $1,300 to $3,400. Used/Salvage – $800 to $1,500. Rebuilt – $1,100 to $2,800.



Is a car with a bad transmission worth it?


With a bad transmission, your car isn't worth much. Even if you trade it in, you're probably looking at taking a loss on the vehicle you currently own. If the car wouldn't be worth much either way, or the repair job costs way more than the vehicle is worth, that might be alright.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.