Transmission Repair Options

By Mister Transmission

Your car’s transmission has failed or is in need of repair. What do you do now?

Are you faced with a failed transmission and the dilemma of deciding which transmission repair option is best for your vehicle? It’s a tough spot to be in but here’s good news: you have options aplenty.

Depending on the age, make, and model of your car, light-duty truck, van, or SUV – and whether your vehicle features an automatic or a manual transmission – your decision will likely be determined by a multitude of factors including cost, quality, and when you need your wheels back.

In general, you have six options to choose from, including:

A New Transmission

Many people believe when they buy a new transmission to have installed in their vehicle, that they are getting a brand new factory-made one. That is usually not the case. Brand new transmissions are not available from the manufacturer, your automotive dealer, or any other source. New transmissions are only used in the production of new cars and trucks. Thus, when you purchase a “new” transmission, you are, in fact, getting one that has been remanufactured. Be advised the price tag affixed to a so-called new transmission and a remanufactured one may not be the same.

A Rebuilt Transmission

Whether you call it a rebuilt, refurbished, reconditioned, or overhauled transmission, the result is the same.  A rebuilt transmission is a transmission that has been disassembled and inspected, all the worn or damaged parts are replaced, and then the transmission is reassembled to factory specifications. Some components will be replaced as part of this process: new gaskets, steel clutch plates, seals, friction clutches, filter, and bands.

The term “rebuilt” is used in a shop setting where the customer’s transmission is removed from the car, rebuilt and then reinstalled. It is a custom process performed by an experienced, technology-savvy technician. One of the major benefits of having your transmission rebuilt is that often there are new updated components that can be installed. These updated components often address common weak points of the transmission; thus they are less likely to fail in the future.

A Remanufactured Transmission

A remanufactured transmission, aka a “reman”, is the same as a rebuilt transmission, except that the work is done in a factory instead of an auto repair shop.

There are two common practices employed in remanufacturing. One uses a team of workers skilled in a specific area of the repair. One technician does the teardown and inspection, one does the cleaning, and several others will assemble and restore certain components. Lastly, another more senior technician will reassemble the transmission. Alternatively, a single technician skilled and experienced at rebuilding a specific model of transmission or family of transmissions will do all of the work. For instance, there may be a Ford transmission specialist, a Chevy transmission specialist, a Nissan transmission specialist, and so on. In either instance, the transmission is tested on a dynamometer and then shipped to a retail outlet for sale (including new auto dealerships).

A Repaired Transmission

A repaired transmission is one where a specific component is replaced or fixed. For example, if an input shaft broke or a solenoid failed, those parts can be replaced without rebuilding the entire transmission. That includes instances where a transmission may have sprung a leak. In such a case, the external seals would be replaced to resolve the leaking problem.

A Used Transmission

Another possibility today is to have a used transmission installed. Used transmissions have become a viable option because insurance companies will often write off the expense of a car simply because the airbags deployed during a relatively minor accident. The rest of the car may be in terrific condition, with very low mileage. A used transmission may cost hundreds less than a rebuilt model, but they come with a limited warranty. Moreover, whenever you buy a used transmission from a junkyard, you never truly know what you’re getting. You may save a few dollars in the short-term, but ask yourself, “what are the long-term implications of buying a used transmission?”

Are you experiencing transmission troubles or have questions about your vehicle’s transmission? Visit the Mister Transmission location nearest you and get the expert help you need.

image-reviews image-reviews
Customer Reviews
Always friendly service from guys...
The Jester
Always friendly service from guys who actually care. Go see Mark he will treat you right!
Date: April 21, 2024
Website: Google
Mr. Transmission was recommended to...
Harry Coote
Mr. Transmission was recommended to me by a friend because of their experience and I was not disappointed. They had my damaged Jeep towed to thier shop and within a day had identified the issue and the appropriate actions to repair it. The front end staff was very helpful, and the technician explained the issue fully. I had my vehicle within a couple days, fully repaired, and the bill came in under the quote. I would recommend Mr. Transmission to anyone needing drivetrain/transmission repairs. Their service and repair work stands out among the rest. THANK YOU to Dawn, Kris and Mr. Transmission!
Date: April 21, 2024
Website: Google
Very efficient. We called for...
Gail Stewart
Very efficient. We called for an appointment, got in the next day and was fixed within hrs. Very happy
Date: April 20, 2024
Website: Google
Great customer service !!!
Chad Beattie
Great customer service !!!
Date: April 20, 2024
Website: Google
Ok so I phone around...
Roy Cross
Ok so I phone around a few places looking for a new clutch in my 1990 f150 302. Lots were about the same price. But I had the clutch done on my ranger here in 97 and it was a perfect job. That ranger pulled a pretty big boat it had no business moving . I sold the ranger in 2021 with same clutch working perfectly..lol Now forward to 2024 I decided to give these guys a shot as they did such a great job in 97 . It should be noted that I just changed the engine in my 91 geo, I am not a mechanic or a tech..but I know the basics and I know when it’s right and when it’s wrong. I can’t do the clutch in big red ..think transfer case ..giant transmission ..flywheel resurfaced.and I’m now 57 .. So in she went . 2 days later they gave me a call ..all done. Wow .drives like a new truck ..the slave cylinder on these is a pain to bleed ..the adjustment on the clutch is a pain..but it’s like brand new. In previous reviews I see a few 1 stars .but I disagree, both my fords ..both manual both had clutches and new slave and master cylinder jobs and both came in at the budget I was quoted. I’m happy and I’m pretty sure you will be to .
Date: April 20, 2024
Website: Google
All I can say is...
Miss Kelly
All I can say is WOW!!! I had an emergency with my vehicle that has a mind of its own and with Tyler's excellent customer service and problem solving skills, I was able to get back on the road right away. All the staff was welcoming, friendly, understanding and caring. I can't recommend them enough. Thank you so much!!! :) ❤️
Date: April 20, 2024
Website: Google
Amazing service and nice reasonable...
Jason James
Amazing service and nice reasonable people.
Date: April 19, 2024
Website: Google
always quick and easy service...
Mackenzie Ditner
always quick and easy service and they never overcharge me for things I don't need. Would recommend!
Date: April 19, 2024
Website: Google
I called in to fix...
MAss STOCA77
I called in to fix my father in law Nissan Rogue… Bryan and Luke made me feel comfortable since the first time I spoke with them. Car got fix in reasonable time as promised originally. Bryan is extremely competent and professional. I’m having problem now with my own car and I’ll definitely going there to fix it, if you want the job done properly, this is the place where you have to go ! Massimo
Date: April 18, 2024
Website: Google
Great Experience with Mr. Transmission....
Jacqueline Nelson
Great Experience with Mr. Transmission. I call and was able to get into the shop in 2 days. The vehicle was repaired within 3 hrs. We were amazed. Vehicle is running great
Date: April 18, 2024
Website: Google
Featured Services
Transmission Repair

The evolution of transmissions has made these machines and systems increasingly complex. When transmission repairs are required, determining the cause and cure for what ails can be tricky.

Read More
Transmission Technology

At Mister Transmission we have access to leading-edge diagnostic equipment, enabling us to offer you the fastest and most accurate findings about what’s going on inside your vehicle’s transmission.

Read More
Transmission Maintenance & Service

Just as you have other parts of your car serviced, your transmission needs maintenance to ensure a long life and avoid transmission problems.

Read More
Recent Blogs
Saving On Your Ford Transmission Replace...
When it comes to maintaining your Ford, understanding the intricacies of transmission
Read More
April 22, 2024
5 Signs It’s Time For A Transmissi...
Maintaining your vehicle's transmission is crucial for its longevity and performance.
Read More
April 12, 2024
Prevent Automatic Transmission Slipping:...
Automatic transmission slipping is more than just an inconvenience; it can signal
Read More
April 5, 2024
CVT Transmission Repair Simplified: Expe...
Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT) are known for their smooth, seamless
Read More
March 29, 2024
The Essential Guide To Cooling Transmiss...
For any vehicle, the health of its transmission system is paramount. One key aspect
Read More
March 22, 2024
The Role Of Solenoids In Your Transmissi...
In the intricate world of automotive transmissions, solenoids are fundamental
Read More
March 14, 2024
Transmission Shop Near Me: Ensuring Your...
When it comes to vehicle maintenance, the transmission is a critical component,
Read More
March 7, 2024
How A Timely Transmission Fluid Change C...
In the world of automotive maintenance, the importance of a timely transmission fluid
Read More
February 23, 2024
Rebuild Transmission: A Cost-Effective S...
In the complex world of automotive repairs, transmission issues can be among the most
Read More
February 16, 2024
The Journey To Becoming A Leading Transm...
In the dynamic world of automotive repair, the rise to prominence of a transmission
Read More
February 9, 2024