How much do I have to pay for a rebuilt transmission? Tips for Getting the Best Estimate
If your car’s transmission is giving you problems, the first thing that might cross your mind is how much that problem is going to cost you. Transmissions aren’t cheap, after all, so how can you be sure you’re getting the best estimate possible?
Wondering how much you should pay for a rebuilt transmission? Take a look at these tips to get the best estimate; they will make sure you walk away with a freshly working transmission without spend an arm and a leg.
Be as descriptive as possible. The more you can tell your mechanic about what’s wrong with your car, the more likely he or she can diagnose the problem right away. You don’t even have to be a car expert to describe what’s wrong with your transmission. Tell your transmission repair expert about any sounds and sensations you have been experiencing.
It may feel like it doesn’t make much sense, but trust us: your transmission repair expert can understand what you’re saying!
Request a Diagnosis. If your mechanic can’t diagnose the problem the first time, he or she can order a diagnostic test. This may sound expensive and time consuming, but it is actually extremely simple. The diagnostic test is a quick process that gives the mechanic a concrete idea of what is wrong with your transmission. This is usually delivered in the form of an error code, which is then used by the mechanic to identify the specific problem.
Your diagnostic test should be free, and if it’s not, take your car to another transmission repair expert, pronto.
Be understanding. There may be times when the diagnostic test does not give your mechanic an accurate idea of what is going on with your car. If that’s the case, your mechanic will need to remove the transmission from your car to get an accurate idea about the price.
If this happens, don’t assume the transmission repair expert is trying to rip you off. In fact, this is usually a sign that your mechanic is trying to give you the fairest and most accurate price possible. If the mechanic needs to remove the transmission, expect him to expect anywhere from $500 to $1000. This should determine the exact problem with your vehicle.
What is the final cost? Transmissions are not cheap; therefore, it is in your best interest to expect to pay upwards of $1000 when your transmission needs to be repaired or rebuilt. Most transmission repairs average between $1400 and $1800 considering the year, make and model of your vehicle. Economy cars and older vehicles will tend to be less expensive, while SUVs and luxury cars will generally cost much more.
However, now that you know how much a transmission repair should really cost, you’ll be in a better place to make sure you don’t get ripped off. Make sure your mechanic walks you through each step of the process, as this can help you better understand why these costs can be so high.
Use these tips to get the best estimate for your rebuilt transmission!