Transmission Replacement
How are transmission problems diagnosed?
There are multiple components that can mimic transmission failure, and many of them are seemingly unrelated to the transmission. The electronic systems in modern cars are interconnected, and are allowed control over each other for certain functions. This means that a wheel speed sensor or bad ignition coil, for example, may limit the ability of the transmission to perform its duty. So, transmission failure should always be diagnosed.
How are transmissions replaced?
The two main components of any vehicle are the engine and the transmission. All other components are packed in tightly around them, and this limits access to the transmission. What’s more, different vehicles have transmissions of different sizes, and they can be oriented in different directions. This means that the removal process will vary for each vehicle, and some cars will require removing the subframe or even the engine.
RepairPal recommendations for transmission issues
Always make sure the problem has been properly diagnosed. Some technicians will recommend replacing the transmission as a means of saving money on diagnosis, but this should be avoided. Diagnostics may show the problem can be repaired for less money than a total replacement.
What to look out for when dealing with transmission issues
That said, often times, transmissions can be replaced more cheaply than they can be repaired, especially in older vehicles. Newer vehicles will typically require transmission replacement any time a rebuild would be required. This is because more manufacturers are choosing to replace the transmission and remanufacture the old transmission through a third party.
Can I replace a transmission myself?
Replacing a transmission is a very large job — it should be left to a professional. Many components must be removed in order to extract the transmission from a vehicle, and installing a transmission without the proper jack and lift will be miserable. The margin of error is high, and mistakes are costly when they’re made.