subject: The Value Of A Transmission Replacement [print this page] Have you ever wondered what you would do if your car needed a transmission replacement? This subject often strikes fear in the heart of many a car owner.
What Is A Transmission?
It's a mechanical part that is joined to the back of the car engine. It sends the engine power to the drive wheels. It has a big job to do, as it makes sure the wheels get enough power to keep the engine in its required RPM range. It does this through a combination of gears such as first through fifth, park, neutral and reverse.
The workings of the transmission are vital to the operation of the vehicle. This is why it's so important to keep your car well maintained with scheduled check-ups and flushes.
But sometimes things happen that can lead a car owner to need a transmission replacement. This is when your existing transmission is replaced with an entirely new one. Most likely, the new one will be a remanufactured or rebuilt unit.
When you're in need of a transmission replacement, it's crucial you make sure there is this compatibility. If not, some of the following problems could crop up:
- A speedometer that reads too low or too high.
- Shift points could be incorrect.
- There could be a complete transmission failure.
Repair shops don't always like to rebuild the unit that is already in your car, simply because it takes so long to do. This, of course, will also make it very expensive. In order to do this, you must be sure it's the car's original transmission.
Nowadays, transmissions often last as long as the vehicle does. On older cars, some may give out at 80,000 miles.
How Much Does It Cost?
A transmission replacement can typically cost anywhere from $1,800-$3,500 depending on the make, model and year of the vehicle. Labor costs can be lower if you have the car repaired in a lower-salaried region.
If you're in the market for a pre-owned vehicle, be sure to check out the transmission. Without a complete maintenance record, you could be in for a hefty additional cost if the unit needs to be replaced. Take it to your mechanic for a thorough inspection before you purchase it.
If you can't take it to a mechanic beforehand, do a test drive. There are a few signs that will indicate there's trouble:
- Delayed engagement when shifting gears.
- Slipping of gears.
- The speed remains constant even though you step on the gas pedal.
There should be no jerks or strange noises coming from the engine when you engage it. All the gears should shift easily and smoothly.
Having a transmission replacement is somewhat like having an organ transplant. The organ must be compatible with the person's body. A rebuilt transmission must also be compatible with the operating system of your vehicle. If it isn't, problems could arise down the road.
