What Goes Into a Transmission Rebuild?

By Mister Transmission

What Goes Into a Transmission Rebuild

The transmission rebuild is a specific kind of transmission repair. For many transmission problems, the necessary solution is a relatively simple one. Maybe a change of transmission fluid or switching out a solenoid pack. Unfortunately, however, not all transmission jobs can be done so swiftly. Sometimes, a transmission rebuild will be necessary. So what goes into a transmission rebuild?

Transmission repair

As mentioned above, the transmission rebuild is one of only many types of transmission repairs. It is also the most involved type of transmission repair. It’s a type of repair that is not meant to fix every problem. Many problems do not require such an endeavour. A transmission rebuild is necessary either when the cause of a transmission problem cannot be accurately identified or when the damage that a transmission has incurred is total or at least far reaching.

Transmission rebuilds

The first step in a transmission rebuild is the complete removal of the transmission from the body of the vehicle. This is necessary when the part that is thought to be causing the problem is not accessible while the transmission remains within the body of the automobile. When the suspected problematic part is replaced, this might solve the problem. However not all problems are solved so easily.

In some cases a complete rebuild is required. A complete rebuild consists of the removal and disassembly of the transmission in its entirety. Every part is inspected for wear and damage, and then it is cleaned in a special cleaning solution, or it is replaced with another part depending on its condition. Parts that have friction surfaces, such as bands and clutches, are replaced as are all seals and gaskets. The torque converter should also be replaced, often with a re-manufactured one.

Technicians will also check technical service bulletins to see if the auto manufacturer recommends any modifications to correct design flaws that were discovered after the transmission was built. Automobile manufacturers often make upgrade kits available to transmission shops to resolve these design defects.

As you can see, the transmission rebuild is a significant undertaking and takes hours of labour to complete. But it is a holistic approach; any problems your transmission has been experiencing are bound to be addressed through this process. The transmission rebuild should add a number of years on to the life of your transmission.

Rebuild or overhaul

You may have heard of transmission overhauls before. If so, you’re probably asking yourself what the difference is between a transmission rebuild and a transmission overhaul is? Well, that’s a simple question to answer. A transmission rebuild is a transmission overhaul; they mean the same thing.

If your transmission requires a rebuild, you have two options. The first is to remove your existing transmission and rebuild it, then put the rebuilt unit back in your car. The second option is to replace your existing unit with another unit that has already been rebuilt or re-manufactured.

However, used transmissions often have questionable histories that could create a whole new slew of issues. New transmissions, meanwhile, are mostly aftermarket transmissions billed as new but are in fact rebuilt transmissions with new parts.

Contact us

If you have any questions about transmission rebuilds or would like to bring your vehicle in for a transmission repair or maintenance, please contact us today and we’d be happy to help you out.

image-reviews image-reviews
Customer Reviews
Quick service, great prices, great...
Jim Stone
Quick service, great prices, great staff!!!!
Date: May 12, 2026
Website: Google
Great knowledgeable people and service...
Ric Hardwick
Great knowledgeable people and service is done properly the first time
Date: May 12, 2026
Website: Google
Aki and his team of...
F W
Aki and his team of professionals repaired the differential fluid leak from the broken seal on the rear axle quickly and at a reasonable cost. They showed me the possible issues that could arise from doing the repair and the possible additional costs. They performed the service on the spot and as originally diagnosed. Thanks for the great work.
Date: May 12, 2026
Website: Google
Dan, was a great employee....
Nick Luxon
Dan, was a great employee. Very transparent with the service. Exceptional job.
Date: May 12, 2026
Website: Google
My vehicle totally shut down...
Arlene Peever
My vehicle totally shut down on Hwy 115 and the only display message was service transmission so I had it towed to Mr Transmission in Peterborough. Turns out that it was not the transmission after being on the diagnostic machine for hours but electrical. Joe then had it towed to the GMC dealership in Lindsay where they determined it to be the fuse block and electrical module. Fixed and then brought back to Peterborough. Definitely went above and beyond for me. Would highly recommend. Sincerely, Arlene
Date: May 12, 2026
Website: Google
First of all I want...
Charles H
First of all I want to say this is my second time at this location and the professionalism and customer service here is amazing Dan is so informable and knowledgeable about what he does the first time I was there for computer for my ford focus my second time back now I needed the clutch this time and they had my clutch done in 2 days no bs or anything extra and even gave me a ride home and being a senior citizen I was very grateful will definitely be back for any work I might need and would highly recommend anyone they definitely go above and beyond for their customers and fair pricing
Date: May 12, 2026
Website: Google
Chis and team always look...
Richard Waroway
Chis and team always look after you.
Date: May 12, 2026
Website: Google
Great service, courteous and honest....
Pascaline Denblyden
Great service, courteous and honest. Would recommend highly.
Date: May 12, 2026
Website: Google
Very professional shop, we have...
Casual Caravans
Very professional shop, we have been servicing our fleet here for a few years now, and I’ve always been impressed with their prompt service and quality of work. Couldn’t recommend them enough.
Date: May 11, 2026
Website: Google
Knowledgeable crew and fast service....
Alexander Wu
Knowledgeable crew and fast service. Great shop!
Date: May 11, 2026
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
Mister Transmission Blogs
Recent Blogs
Ford Transmission Replacement: Signs You...
Ford vehicles are built to handle demanding conditions — from city commutes in
Read More
May 7, 2026
Transmission Overheating: Why It Happens...
Transmission overheating is one of the most preventable causes of major vehicle
Read More
April 30, 2026
Manual VS Automatic Transmission Repairs...
Your transmission is doing a lot of work every time you drive — shifting power,
Read More
April 27, 2026
Dodge Transmission Replacement Cost: Wha...
Dodge vehicles have built a strong reputation for performance and durability —
Read More
April 16, 2026
Transmission Diagnostic Testing: How Exp...
Transmission problems are rarely sudden. Most failures develop quietly — slipping
Read More
April 7, 2026
Automatic Transmission Problems: Early D...
The automatic transmission is one of the most complex and expensive components in any
Read More
March 31, 2026
Transmission Repair Cost Guide: What Imp...
Ask ten Canadian drivers what they paid for transmission work and you'll get ten
Read More
March 24, 2026
Transmission Slipping: Causes, Warning S...
A slipping transmission is one of the most misunderstood — and most expensive to
Read More
March 16, 2026
Transmission Rebuild: When Is It Better ...
Many drivers face the stressful question when their vehicle starts slipping gears or
Read More
March 9, 2026
Understanding GM 6L80 Transmission Codes...
If your GM 1500 has triggered a check engine light or is displaying
Read More
March 2, 2026