What’s a Transmission Rebuild?

A transmission rebuild can give your automatic transmission a whole new life

Let’s face it – we love our cars. But we may not always take care of them as well as we should. With regular transmission maintenance, you may never need to know what a transmission rebuild is all about. If, however, the ravages of time catch up with your vehicle, it is helpful to understand your options when you experience transmission problems so that you can give your car transmission a new lease on life and add years to your relationship with your vehicle.

On the Road to a Transmission Rebuild

If caught early enough, some transmission repairs can be made without requiring a full transmission rebuild. When you visit your local transmission shop, the technicians will perform transmission diagnostics, through both a test drive and a comprehensive inspection in the shop.

If the transmission parts that require replacement are easily accessible or the problem is electrical, it may be possible to repair the transmission without removing it from the vehicle. However, Cory Catteau of Mister Transmission in Guelph, Ontario says it may be better to look at the big picture right from the start.

“Once a few parts of your transmission are damaged, odds are more parts are likely to go too once the process starts so it can be a losing battle. A rebuild often saves you time and money in the long run.”

The Process of a Transmission Rebuild

An important element of the transmission diagnostic is to determine the root cause of the problem in order for you and your transmission mechanic to make an informed choice about proceeding with a transmission rebuild. Once the decision is made, the transmission rebuild process will include the following steps:

• Remove the transmission from your vehicle and dismantle it
• Chemically clean the transmission by running it through a parts washer
• On a clean rebuild bench, the necessary transmission parts plus all seals and gaskets are replaced with new ones 
• Any electrical repairs that are needed are also completed
• Often there will be advances that have been made in transmission parts and technology since your vehicle came out of the factory, so some updated parts may be included to improve the performance of your transmission and lengthen its life
• Re-install the transmission in your vehicle

Once your rebuild is complete, your car’s transmission will be as good or better than new.

The Cost of a Transmission Rebuild

As with any automotive repairs, the cost of a transmission rebuild varies widely depending on the type of vehicle you drive and how extensive the damage is when the rebuild is required. Nobody can tell you exactly what your vehicle’s transmission repair will cost over the phone.  Other transmission shops can guess, but you can bet they’ll guess low to get you in the door.  Then the truth comes later, once your vehicle is completely disassembled in their shop.

For an accurate quote from the professionals, please contact your local Mister Transmission and book an appointment for our FREE 21-Point Multi-Check Inspection.

The Value of a Transmission Rebuild

While cost is always an important consideration when faced with any transmission repairs, it is also important to consider the value of the work performed as well. Many Mister Transmission shops offer a 12-month warranty with any transmission rebuild, with the option of upgrading to a 5-year warranty. This transmission warranty can help you feel more comfortable with the expense because you know your transmission repair shop has confidence in the level of quality they provide with your transmission rebuild.

You and your car can happily travel many more miles together in the years that follow your quality transmission rebuild.