Is it Time to Replace Your Transmission?
Sometimes, a transmission is failing so badly that it needs to be replaced. The internal damage is beyond repair, so installing a replacement transmission is the only viable course of action. Nobody really wants to find themselves in this situation, but it does happen.
Before you agree to have your transmission replaced, be sure to ask questions of your mechanic and make sure you have exhausted all of your repair options. There are numerous things you will need to consider when dealing with a failed transmission.
Can it Be Fixed?
The first issue is figuring out which repair options may be available to you. Many general auto repair shops do not have the proper equipment or experience to make advanced internal transmission repairs. They often default to replacing the transmission as their recommendation because it’s within their capabilities. We highly recommend taking your vehicle to a transmission repair specialist for a second opinion. You may discover you have more options than your previous mechanic provided.
Transmission repair solutions may include targeted repairs to replaced damaged/worn components. Or, if the damage is severe enough, a transmission specialist may have the ability to rebuild your transmission completely. This is a more complex repair process. However, it can be a better long-term solution to rebuild your existing transmission compared to replacing it. It may also save you money, as well. Transmission rebuilds are one of our specialty services at Escalon Transmission, so we will usually consider this solution before a full transmission replacement.
Transmission Replacement Options
There are situations where a transmission has so much internal damage that a transmission rebuild won’t be a viable option. And, there are certain types of complex modern transmission systems (such as CVT transmissions) where a transmission replacement is actually a much more cost-effective solution than trying to rebuild it.
When a transmission replacement is the best option, you still have choices to consider. You can purchase and install a brand new transmission unit from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) that exactly matches your vehicle’s year, make and model. This is the safest bet for extended performance, but it will also be your most expensive because new transmissions aren’t cheap. You may also be able to find a used transmission unit that fits your vehicle. Of course, this brings many risks. Make sure the unit is properly inspected and tested.
Lastly, you may be able to get a refurbished transmission unit that has been rebuilt/repaired by a third-party provider. This may be less expensive than a new unit and less risky than a non-refurbished used unit. Always ask about the refurbishment process and see if there are any warranties attached. At Escalon Transmission, we back all of our transmission rebuilds with a 3 Year, 100,000 Mile Warranty, which you generally won’t find with most third-party refurbished transmission units. That may be another reason to consider a transmission rebuild if it is a viable option.
Always Ask Questions
Never be afraid to ask a lot of questions when it comes to transmission repairs, rebuilds or replacements. Services can be expensive and you don’t want to make the wrong decision. Make sure you trust whoever is doing the work and follow the advice of experts, but consider getting a second opinion if you can—especially if you have a local transmission specialist.
For all your transmission repair, rebuild or replacement needs in the Central Valley, call Escalon Transmission at (209) 838-0113 or request an appointment online.
