Can I do a transmission service myself?

You should change your automatic transmission fluid according to the manufacturer’s recommendation— whether that’s 30,000 or 100,000 miles. A transmission flush-and-fill from a shop will cost you $149 to $199. But you can do it yourself and save about $100. Draining the old fluid has always been a messy, ugly job.

When is it time to replace your transmission?

If you find that your car spends many hours in the garage instead of on the road, it’s time to replace it. Most transmission problems can be solved. A repair will cost you several hundred dollars, but if the total cost of the repair exceeds the cost of a new transmission, it’s time to buy a new transmission. 2. Fixing transmission problems

How much does it cost to rebuild a transmission?

When rebuilding the transmission, you need to replace the clutch, seals, gaskets, sealing rings, and bands. All this drives the price of an overhaul to over $1,000.

What should I do if I have a transmission problem?

Most transmission problems can be solved if they are not so serious. A defective clutch can be repaired so that leaks can be eliminated. Bearings and gears wear out after extensive use; a mechanic can repair this and get your gearbox back to work.

When do you need to replace the transmission fluid?

You can distinguish the transmission fluid from other car fluids by its red color and sweet smell. If you notice that it has a darker color with a burning odor, you must rinse it out and replace it. Unlike the engine oil that is consumed by the car, the transmission oil should never get too low. You can detect a leak when you observe the dipstick.

Why does it cost so much to rebuild a transmission?

The reason for the cost, as you suggested, is because of one, the labor involved in removing the transmission from the car, and two, because not every mechanic can rebuild a transmission. To do it right takes some extra learning. You just cannot throw it together and expect it to work and every make/model is different. All of that costs money.

Where can I get a certified transmission service?

With two remanufacturing facilities, 15 distributors, and 14 retail locations, Certified Transmission is dedicated to offering only the highest quality services and transmissions nationwide. The nationwide coverage offered by Certified Transmission for our remanufactured products is among the best in the automotive industry.

When does a transmission need to be repaired?

In most cases when a transmission needs repaired, it is one or more of the soft parts which have gone bad. These include the band (s) and clutches. Usually the hard parts, like the gears, do not go bad and are reused after a thorough cleaning and inspection. You also have to consider, the transmission is very susceptible to debris.

Can a car repair shop rip you off?

Has the “check engine” light come on, and suddenly the mechanic says you need expensive new engine parts? One seasoned auto mechanic is warning consumers to be well-versed in how a car works to avoid being ripped off at the auto repair shop.