If you have a failing transmission, you may be faced with two major repair options: transmission rebuild or transmission replacement. Rebuilding the transmission may not always be a viable solution, depending on the type of transmission and the extent of the damage. However, it may be your best option if the original transmission unit is rebuildable. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of both repair solutions, so you can make a more informed decision if faced with this situation.
Transmission Rebuild vs. Replacement: The Key Differences
First, it helps to understand the differences between transmission rebuilds and transmission replacement. A replacement is fairly simple to grasp. The transmission is damaged so severely that you have to replace it with a new, used or refurbished unit that is compatible with your vehicle make and model. A transmission rebuild involves dismantling your existing transmission and rebuilding it piece by piece. Bad parts are replaced with new components. Healthy parts are cleaned and reinstalled. The transmission is rebuilt completely and reinstalled in your vehicle.
Pros of a Transmission Rebuild
One major benefit of a transmission rebuild is that you are refurbishing and reinstalling the same transmission unit back into your vehicle. You don’t have to worry about it fitting or working with your engine and other powertrain components. A properly rebuilt transmission should run like new again and keep running well as long as you keep up with maintenance. At Ralph’s Transmission, we feel that rebuilding the transmission is usually the best solution when the transmission can be saved. It is generally more cost-effective than replacing the transmission, especially if you are considering installing a brand new OEM unit.
Cons of a Transmission Rebuild
It is important to know who is rebuilding your transmission. The truth is most general auto repair shops (and even some transmission specialists) don’t have the equipment or knowhow to properly rebuild a transmission. They may send it out to a third party service provider, or they may attempt to do it themselves without really knowing what they are doing. It may work okay for a little while, but it could break down again and you are right back where you are started. Be sure to ask a lot of questions before authorizing a transmission rebuild. We rebuild all our transmissions in-houseat Ralph’s Transmission. Our rebuild specialists are trained and certified to provide the highest standards of quality. This is why we back our transmission rebuilds with an industry-leading 3 Year, 100,000 Mile Warranty.
Pros of a Transmission Replacement
A full transmission replacement can give you peace of mind, but it may depend on the transmission unit that is being installed. Of course, the safest option is a brand new transmission from the original automotive manufacturer—one that is matched to your vehicle’s specific year and model to ensure it fits properly and works with the rest of your vehicle systems. Installing a used or refurbished transmission unit could save you money compared to a new transmission or rebuild, so that may be another factor behind your decision.
Cons of a Transmission Replacement
The negative thing about replacing your failing transmission with a brand new unit is the cost. This will be the most expensive solution by a long shot. Again, you might be able to save some money with a used or refurbished unit. However, this is where the old “buyer beware” warning comes in. Be very careful about where you are getting the transmission from and see if there is any kind of warranty attached. Used transmissions generally aren’t covered, so you may get what you pay for. Refurbished/rebuilt transmission from outside sources may have some sort of warranty coverage, so understand the details and consider all the information when making your repair decision.
At Ralph’s Transmission, we are transmission specialists. There are some cases where replacing the transmission is the best solution, and we will walk our customers through their options. In many other situations, the transmission can and should be rebuilt. Whatever solution is right for you, we will give you the information and advice you need to make the proper decision.
Call Ralph’s Transmission today at 209.526.1909 or schedule your service appointment online. We can conduct a free initial transmission inspection, road test and diagnostics and let you know what repair or maintenance services are recommended—if any.
