New Transmissions Aren’t Always New – and Why That’s a Good Thing

If you are in the market for a new transmission, you may be surprised to learn that repairing a transmission makes more sense than replacing it. It also will save you a considerable amount of money.

The fact is, only a very few manufacturers – for example, Audi – sell new transmissions. Further, most “new” transmissions were built years ago and therefore don’t have the benefit of updated parts. This is significant because engine parts are continually updated and improved when weaknesses in the original design are identified. So, who wants a “new” transmission that contains outdated and possibly faulty parts?

When repairing a vehicle’s transmission, only the parts that have failed need to be replaced. It is not necessary to overhaul the entire mechanism. Parts that are most likely to be worn out or damaged, causing transmission failure are seals, gaskets, clutch, and bands. During the rebuilding process, the transmission is taken apart, and its parts cleaned. At this point, a decision is made whether each part should be put back in the transmission or replaced with a new one.

Of course, the best way to prevent the costs associated with transmission trouble is to keep your engine in good condition. This means paying attention to how your vehicle sounds, shifts, runs, and being aware of any odd smells coming from the engine. Regular maintenance and a trip to the mechanic at the first sign of trouble will go a long way toward keeping your transmission healthy and save you a great of money in the long run.

If it turns out your transmission does need to be repaired, the cost of that repair will depend on several factors, including:

1. The Extent of the damage. The state of your transmission when it is brought in will likely be the most significant factor in how much you pay to have it repaired, so don’t put off having it looked at. How well your car has been maintained over the years will also make a difference.
2. Whether it is a Manual or Automatic Transmission. In general, manual transmissions cost less to repair than automatic ones.
3. The Make of the Car. Transmissions in U.S. models typically cost less to repair than those in imported cars.
4. The Vehicle’s Age. The older a car, the more difficult it can be to find parts. This adds to the costs of repairs.

One of the worst things you can hear as a car owner is that your vehicle has transmission issues. However, this doesn’t always have to mean an astronomical repair bill. Instead, consider all of your options, and chances are that you can be back on the road again – without breaking the bank.