How Do You Rebuild A Transmission?

September 30, 2020 | By Mister Transmission

How Do You Rebuild A Transmission?

The decision to rebuild a transmission is not to be taken lightly. While a fascinating process, rebuilding a transmission is not a quick fix. It should only be undertaken when absolutely necessary.

The Majority Of Transmission Problems Are Relatively Minor And Do Not Require A Transmission Rebuild.

Just as you don’t require surgery for a head cold, your transmission won’t need a rebuild for most of the issues it’s likely to face. There are so many problems caused by a lack of transmission fluid that it’s almost comical. That’s all the more reason to check your transmission fluid levels every month and top them up when necessary. Newer transmissions are computerized, which makes them run more efficiently, but does add something else that can go wrong. Top of the line transmission shops have technology that can interface with a vehicle’s onboard computer which allows for quick diagnoses and fixes.

Occasionally, parts of your transmission will probably have to be replaced. But don’t fret, this is not the end of the world. Often, parts that need to be replaced can be accessed while the transmission is still in the body of the vehicle. These are referred to as accessible parts. When an inaccessible part needs to be repaired, then we get into larger transmission repair jobs. But even in these cases, if the problematic part can be easily identified it can still be a relatively quick job. Then there are transmission rebuilds.

You Only Need To Rebuild A Transmission When There Is Extensive Damage Or If The Transmission Technicians Cannot Identify The Cause Of Your Transmission Problem.

Extensive damage or a complete transmission failure can necessitate a transmission rebuild. This involves removing the transmission from the chassis and examining each and every part for damage. Depending on its condition, each part is then cleaned in a special solution or replaced with another part. Parts that have friction surfaces, such as bands and clutches, are replaced regardless, as are all seals and gaskets and the torque converter.

Is It Better To Rebuild A Transmission Or Replace It Piece-By-Piece?

If the description above makes rebuilding a transmission sound labour intensive, that’s because it is. Wouldn’t it be much quicker and easier to simply replace the transmission with another one? It would but, in most scenarios, we advise against it. You would be replacing your transmission with a used one with an unknown provenance which could create a whole new set of problems. And “new transmissions” are extremely expensive compared to a rebuilt transmission.

Mister Transmission

Want to learn more about how we rebuild a transmission? Please contact us.

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Top notch service. They got...
Tara Dowding
Top notch service. They got me fixed and on my way. Great communication - I would recommend
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In late December I got...
John Clark
In late December I got my oil changed at the Mr Lube on Henry St. All through January, whenever I drove I could smell oil burning. With the snow, I saw that the oil was leaking. I took it back to Mr. Lube and explained that it was leaking. They examined it, and told me it was transmission fluid. I believed them, and took it in to Mr. Transmission. Mr. Transmission looked and quickly diagnosed that the leak was engine oil, coming from around the filter. Mr. Transmission was fast, courteous, and didn't even charge me for their time. Thanks! You have my business if I need it down the road!
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Long overdue review! Top level...
Neil MacMillan
Long overdue review! Top level summary, bring your vehicle to Mike and Rabih, they provide exceptional service. Huge thanks to them for helping me through a complex challenge and being able to get my vehicle back on the road and me trusting it is fixed properly! They worked through an expensive challenge, as Stellantis dishonoured my extended warranty and I had to have the transfer case on my SRT Grand Cherokee rebuilt. Throughout the process he consulted with me, always advising on options cost-wise and reliability. 3 weeks ago I had an issue start in the same drivetrain space, so I first brought it back to Mr. Transmission. Mike has gone above and beyond in working through the cascade of issues: just picked the truck back up today and its driving like new! Thanks again guys, will be sending everybody I know your way.
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Kyle and his team did...
Wayne Orlick
Kyle and his team did another perfect job for me! This time on an import piece for my Spitfire. Excellent service and timing while sticking to the quoted price, again :)
Date: February 13, 2025
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I’m incredibly impressed with the...
Katie Tremblay
I’m incredibly impressed with the service I received at Mr. Transmission! They quickly diagnosed and fixed the issue with my car, getting it running like new. Professional, efficient, and extremely well priced. Highly recommend them for any transmission needs!
Date: February 13, 2025
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Kyle is one of the...
Greg Allen
Kyle is one of the nicest business owners that I've ever met. Noah and Mike were polite and knowledgeable, they explained my repair and got it done in the estimated time. I would definitely return and will recommend them. Thank You.
Date: February 12, 2025
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The people at Mister transmission...
Philip Poplawchuk
The people at Mister transmission are simply the best, in my opinion. They went above and beyond just fixing what problem I was having with my car. Their knowledgeable staff was able to see potential problems with my car and advised me of the situation. They gave me options because they understood that not everyone could have everything fixed at the same time. Since they did a great job fixing my car, I have not had any problems. If ever I have problems again, they will be the first place I call for help Thank you Mister Transmission and your awesome staff
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Great experience with Mr T...
Sharron Mulvey
Great experience with Mr T on Bank Street. Noah has always friendly and helpful. Transmissions is their specialty but he was helpful in giving me information on a few other areas of concern with my vehicle (brakes and worn out tires). It was a quiet week, so he was able to assist with both, in addition to the transmission repair. Appreciated this!
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Kyle and his team at...
Stephanie Maurice
Kyle and his team at Mr. Transmission were fantastic! They resolved the problem in a timely manner and took the time to ensure I fully understood the issue. Their professionalism, expertise, and excellent customer service made the whole experience smooth and stress-free. Highly recommend!
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Great place good people
Wrightaway69
Great place good people
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