Automatic Transmission: Repair, Rebuild, or Replace?

Your car's transmission has just failed and you shudder to think about what it's going to cost you. But before you shell out any money, think carefully about how best to spend it.

You have three options: (1) repair it, (2) rebuild it, or (3) replace it. Which is the best option? Unfortunately, there is no single right answer; it depends on numerous factors.

Main differences between repairing and rebuilding transmissions

Sometimes vehicle owners are confused between transmission repair and transmission replacement. Knowing and understanding the differences is essential to deciding which is the best option for your vehicle:

Transmission repair

Transmission repair focuses on fixing a specific problem. For example, if a sensor fails, the mechanic will replace it to restore transmission functionality.

In general, repair is an option for relatively minor damage that is quick to complete.

Transmission reconstruction

A rebuild involves a complete overhaul of the transmission, as it is disassembled to inspect all parts, replace those that are damaged or worn, and reinstall.

A rebuilt transmission offers similar performance to a new one when done correctly.

Factors to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace a transmission

Before choosing to repair or replace the transmission, it is important to analyze factors such as the model, the magnitude of the problem and the customer's budget for the repair:

The extent of the problem

If it’s just a few minor components that are on the blink, such as a gasket, seal, or electrical parts, a simple repair or replacement of those parts is probably your best bet. After all, there’s no sense in throwing everything out if only a few things need fixing. On the other hand, replacing a planetary gear set, clutch pack, transmission control module, or torque converter can run you several hundred dollars, or more. So, do the math.

The age of the car

Replacing transmissions can be costly (anywhere from $2,000 to upwards of $10,000, depending on the make and model of the car), so you really need to ask yourself if it’s worth putting that much into a vehicle that you may not be keeping much longer anyway. If you can get a few more years out of the car by simply replacing a few parts, that’s one thing—but spending what might be more than the book price of the car might not be the most economical choice.

Your budget

If you decide to rebuild or replace, keep in mind there are some ways to keep the cost down. If your problem is the result of an accident, your car insurance might kick in. If the car’s still under the manufacturer’s warranty, then you may be off the hook entirely. Even some motor oil companies—if you’ve used their products consistently—offer limited warranties on engine parts. Of course, if you’re really mechanically-minded, you can purchase a rebuild kit and make the replacement yourself.

Advantages and disadvantages of repair, rebuild or replace

There are pros and cons to both repairing and rebuilding as well as replacing the transmission. Let's discuss them below:

Pros and cons of repair

• Pros: Transmission repair is a faster process, relatively easy to perform. In addition, it is the cheapest option and generates less polluting waste.
• Cons: The repair is a temporary solution in which there is a possibility that the problem may reoccur if it is a generalized failure.

Pros and cons of reconstruction

• Pros: Rebuilding the transmission is a more durable solution, which can provide performance similar to that of a new one. In addition, by addressing all transmission problems, the likelihood of future repairs is significantly reduced.
• Cons. Rebuild is more expensive than repair and requires a professional mechanic with a lot of experience.

Pros and cons of replacement

• Pros: quickest solution to get your vehicle back up and running.
• Cons: it is the most expensive option of the three.

When to repair or replace the transmission?

The decision to repair, replace or rebuild the transmission should be made in conjunction with the mechanic to choose the best alternative for each vehicle.

In general, a repair is recommended to fix minor damage to one or two components of the transmission. In addition, it is the alternative in case of a limited budget.

Replacement is recommended when the transmission has many damaged components or widespread wear.

Rebuild is an alternative to replacement because it is less expensive and provides similar results in terms of durability and efficiency.

Conclusion: repair, rebuild or replace?

Transmission repair can be a difficult decision due to the high costs involved. Ideally, it is best to visit your mechanic for a thorough assessment of the most important factors.

Older model vehicles or those with minor damage benefit from a repair. On the other hand, in vehicles of more recent models and with low mileage, the reconstruction of the transmission is the best alternative to recover its correct operation.

If your budget is high and you can afford a replacement, it is also a good alternative.

At Sun Transmissions, our online store offers high-quality automatic transmission parts, along with a variety of products including transmission filters, sensors, coolers, automatic transmission solenoids, and the best transmission additives.