The Complete Guide to Understanding Rebuilt Transmissions

We all know problems with your automobile are the worst. And if someone has ever told you that you that problems could be resolved by getting a new transmission, well, that’s enough to make most people sweat. Because, transmissions cost a lot of money. In fact, they’re one of the costliest parts of an automobile to replace, after the engine itself.

This is where “rebuilt transmissions” come in. If you’ve been searching for things like “rebuilt transmissions near me” or looking at sites where people talk about their terrible repair expenses, you could have seen that word come up. But what are “rebuilt engines”? Is it simply a fancy way of expressing “used”? Or is it really better than used?

This guide aims to explain everything in simple terms below.

What Does It Mean to Have a “Rebuilt Transmission”?

First of all, a rebuilt transmission is not the same as a used transmission. That’s a tremendous mistake majority of users make. Someone physically pulls a secondhand gearbox out of another vehicle and puts it in yours. You never know whether it will operate well for a long or if it will have its own difficulties.

However, a remanufactured transmission is different. A skilled technician will examine all the components, fix worn ones like clutches, seals, bands, solenoids, bearings, etc., and then reassemble it.

That’s why some individuals like refurbished things more than used ones. You get performance that is closer to new without paying the crazy price of a brand-new one.

Why do people choose rebuilt over new?

A new transmission may cost a lot of money, like thousands of dollars. Sometimes, it’s more than what your automobile is worth. That’s hard to take in.

Rebuilt transmissions are frequently cheaper, sometimes by half. And if your automobile isn’t completely rusted out, it can last you a few more years of solid driving.

There is also a useful side. Not every automobile on the road has brand-new gearboxes that are easy to get. Older models in particular. Rebuilding your automobile means you don’t have to look for a hard-to-find component or think about getting a new car.

It’s a compromise, but for a lot of people, it’s the best choice.

How do you tell whether you need one?

Most of the time, your automobile will give indications. It won’t not be in words, but in strange grinding noises, gears that slide, shifting that takes too long, or simply refusing to move. Problems with the transmission don’t often go away on their own.

A fluid change or simple repair might often buy you time, but if the technician thinks it’s broken, you have three basic options:

• New gearbox
• Transmission that has been used
• Transmission rebuilt

That’s when the research spiral begins. You look at prices, read scary tales online, and maybe even enter “rebuilt transmissions near me” into Google Maps at midnight.

Rebuilt, Used, and Remanufactured

Let’s define these terms, which seem similar and are used often.

• Used transmission: Taken from another vehicle. No promises. Not too expensive up front, but dangerous.
• Rebuilt transmission: Your transmission (or one like it) is taken apart, checked, and fixed with new parts where they are required. A choice in the middle.
• Remanufactured transmission: This is usually done at the manufacturer level. The entire thing is fixed up to satisfy certain requirements. More reliable than a local rebuild, however it may be more expensive.

So, which one is the “best”? It all depends. A remanufactured one is the most like a brand-new one. Depending on the technician, a repaired one may be practically as excellent. purchasing used is like purchasing a mystery box: you could get fortunate, or you might have to go back to the store in six months.

Where to Look for Rebuilt Transmissions?

This is the hard part. Not all mechanics conduct repairs on their own. Some stores do it themselves, while others hire someone else to do it. You may put “rebuilt transmissions near me” into a search engine and go through the results.

Check for stores with good ratings and, most importantly, inquire about their warranty. If you rebuild anything without a guarantee, you’re taking a chance. A good shop should provide you at least 12 months or 12,000 miles, and possibly more.

And definitely don’t simply choose the cheapest location. If you end up on the side of the road again six months later, it’s not worth it to save a few hundred dollars up front.

Cost Breakdown

This is the ballpark:

• Transmission costs $800-$1500, but is risky.
• The cost of rebuilding a gearbox varies from $1500 to $3000, depending on the car model and shop.
• A new transmission costs between $4,000 and $7,000, and occasionally considerably more.

Of course, labor costs more. Transmission maintenance isn’t a quick task; it might take more than 10 hours of effort, depending on the automobile. That’s why even “cheap” repairs still seem pricey.

What About Used Engines?

It’s strange how frequently “rebuilt engines” and “rebuilt transmissions” are used together. In the field of vehicle maintenance, they’re relatives. Both are ways to make your car last longer by giving it a new heart without having to purchase a new one.

The same reasoning holds. Rebuilt engines are cheaper and more reliable. Some may rebuild the engine and transmission simultaneously to keep an older car functioning.

So, if you’re looking for any “rebuilt transmission near me”, you are at the right place.

The Bottom Line

A rebuilt gearbox gives your automobile a second opportunity. It’s not as exciting as a brand-new one, but it’s also not as risky as a used one. The middle lane is what keeps you going without entirely emptying your bank account.

It’s reasonable to be worried about the potential if you’re already stressed. This repair comes up on you when you least expect it. But if you locate a good shop, ask the appropriate questions, and obtain a good guarantee, a rebuilt gearbox may make your vehicle seem virtually new again.

FAQs

1. How long will a remanufactured transmission work?

A good rebuild may last 30,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on how you drive and how diligently you work.

2. Is it possible for me to fix a transmission myself?

You shouldn’t perform it unless you’re an experienced technician with time and equipment. It is one of the most difficult car parts.

3. Are rebuilt engines and transmissions the same?

Yes, since both are new copies of the original. They cost less than new ones, are more dependable than used ones, and are a terrific method to make your car last longer.