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It’s wise to be smart with your money, to save more than you spend, and when shopping, to look for the best deal you can find. But on the subject of buying a used transmission, an adage applies: “You get what you paid for.” In other words, purchasing a used transmission is never a good idea unless you’re doing it as a temporary measure to extend the longevity of an older vehicle.

Used Transmissions and the Risks They Pose

Used transmissions can be found at most auto wreckers. Many of these suppliers offer warranties, usually for a timeframe ranging from 30 to 90 days. But it’s important to remember you’re rummaging for a used transmission in an auto junkyard. That means you don’t truly know what condition a used transmission is in, what its history is, and there are no guarantees it will work as you expect for long if at all.

Be aware it can take up to 10 hours or more to install a used transmission in a car. In fact, It’s usually cheaper to have your vehicle’s failed or failing transmission removed and repaired. Additionally, there are so many variations of transmissions on the used parts aftermarket that there’s a real possibility you may purchase the wrong model for your vehicle.

There Are Other Options Available to You

Modern transmissions are computer-controlled marvels featuring an array of sensors that constantly monitor and relay information to the computer to ensure the transmission is performing at an optimum level. Your vehicle’s engine control unit is what governs everything from fuel efficiency and emissions to shifting gears. If repairing your current transmission isn’t a viable option, you can opt to replace it with a rebuilt model, or you can purchase a new one and have it installed.

Rebuilding a failed or failing transmission may seem questionable, but you have the benefit of knowing its history and who serviced it. Plus, there’s no worrying over whether or not the transmission gears are the perfect match for your vehicle.

Transmission rebuilds at Mister Transmission repair shops include a 12-month warranty (which can be upgraded to three or five years). It’s that extended nationwide guarantee that should give you the confidence to invest in repairing your existing transmission. Also, it strikes the right balance between being economically responsible and having the peace of mind the repair will go as planned.

Are you experiencing a problem with your vehicle’s manual or automatic transmission or have questions about transmissions? Visit the Mister Transmission location nearest you and get the expert help and information you need.