Need A New Transmission? Learn About Your Options
Hearing that you need a new transmission is likely to strike a chord of fear in the hearts – and wallets – of nearly everyone. After all, replacing this vital component of your car will cost you at least $1,000 and could be as pricey as $3,000. Fortunately, you do have some money-saving options when it comes to the transmission you choose for your car.
Remanufactured Transmission
A remanufactured transmission is one that has been disassembled in a factory. Either a team of workers who are skilled in one specific area of the operation – tear down, for example, or cleaning – or a single worker who specializes in rebuilding transmissions of one particular type or family, completes the job.
During a "reman," as this process is sometimes called, the damaged parts are removed and replaced before it is assembled again so that it meets factory specifications. The gaskets, bands, and clutches are also replaced and the transmission is warranted against failure for a specific number of miles.
Rebuilt Transmission
When a transmission is rebuilt, it is taken completely apart and inspected. The damaged or worn parts are replaced and the transmission is reassembled to those specifications set by the factory. Additional parts such as the seals, gaskets, bands, and clutches are also replaced.
In almost all cases, when a transmission is rebuilt, it is completed in a shop by a specialist and involves the customer's own transmission. Once it is rebuilt, it is reinstalled. The entire process is customized to the particular vehicle involved and can also be referred to as "overhauled," "reconditioned," or "refurbished." A rebuilt transmission often comes with a warranty though it might be limited to workmanship and/or manufacturer failure of replaced parts.
Repaired Transmission
A repaired transmission is exactly what it sounds like. Only that particular part or component that is damaged or worn is replaced. A common scenario develops when a customer notices that their car is hard to shift or it will not change gears. When the car is inspected by the shop, most of the parts are undamaged so only the worn components are replaced. This can be a cost-effective solution to transmission problems, but could also problematic later if another part fails.
Used Transmission
The used transmissions of today could be a valid option for someone who is looking to save a few hundred dollars. Due to the tendency of insurance companies to count a car as totaled after it has been in a minor accident in which the airbags deployed, it is possible to find a low-mileage transmission that is in great condition. The trade-off for choosing a used transmission, though, is that the warranty typically does not last as long.
An auto shop like A Transmissions is the best source of information about the right choice for you when you need a new transmission.
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