Transmission Repair and Cost: Is It Worth It?

Posted on 26th, Oct 21

A transmission repair will roughly cost you between $1200 to $5000, depending on the damage. Let us tell you what you can anticipate to pay while getting your transmission fixed, manual or automatic.

It might happen, you get in your car, put it in Reverse, and back the vehicle out of the driveway. Then, when you put it in Drive, your car makes a loud ‘clunking’ sound and then starts acting normal again. Your car’s transmission is probably giving you early signs of warning. If you suspect your car’s transmission is about to breakdown, read this helpful guide from Mega Car Wreckers to know more about transmission repair costs and alternative options when faced with such an issue, such as opting for a Cash for Cars deal in Melbourne.

What is the estimated cost of transmission repairs?

The cost depends on the severity of the damage. If your car only needs a fluid change, you’re looking at a price between $80 and $250. To restore the fluid leak, expect a price between $150-$200, and for a solenoid shift replacement, the amount is between $150-$400.

Here, we will brief you about everything you need to know regarding transmission repairs. Let’s start by taking a closer look at how a transmission works.
Then, we will explore what causes them to fail and if yours is having issues or not.

What is the purpose of a transmission?

While an engine generates power, the transmission controls how much of it reaches the wheels at any given speed.

For example, while riding a bike, when you shift gears between one to another, the chain is temporarily lifted, then put back in place.
This is how a manual transmission works. When you press the clutch, it disengages the engine from the transmission, allowing you to shift into the next gear. When you let off the clutch, it reconnects the two.

On the other hand, the automatic transmission is an electronic gear shifter that does the work for you. It uses a ‘torque converter’ to determine when to shift so that when you speed up or slow down.

You must get your transmission issues checked out on time. If you ignore them, it may eventually fail, leading to a non-functional car.
Now you know how a transmission works, here are the reasons why it may fail:

Low Transmission Fluid

Like an engine, the transmission requires a fluid to function, which is called transmission fluid. It is not merely a lubricant but a hydraulic fluid, which keeps it within a safe operating temperature, helps gear shifts and greases the moving parts.
If you’re running low on transmission fluid, it will get heated and won’t be able to shift smoothly. The internal parts will eventually seize.
For an average driver, fluid replacement is required every 2 ½-5 years. The cost of changing it is less, ranging between $80-$250.

Transmission Fluid Leak

This means that your transmission doesn’t receive the required amount of fluid it needs. So, if your transmission is leaking fluid, you can’t just add more, and the issue needs to be fixed.
Thankfully, the transmission fluid is red, so if you see a puddle of red liquid under your vehicle, it’s pretty apparent that the transmission fluid is leaking. It takes about $150-$200 to get this issue fixed.

A Clogged Transmission Fluid Filter

Your tranny has a filter that eliminates harmful debris like dirt, dust, and metallic flakes before they begin to wreak havoc. However, once the filter shields out enough debris, it can get clogged and become useless.
As a result, it blocks fluid flow, meaning your car suffers from the same issue as the first two causes.

By replacing your transmission fluid (and filter) every 30,000-60,000 miles, your tranny can remain healthy.

Symptoms Of A Damaged Transmission

Burning Odor
A burning smell coming from your auto is never a good sign. A lack of fluid can make your transmission overheated. When there’s less fluid left, it can burn, causing a unique, sweet-smelling burning odor. If you catch on to this issue early, you can save yourself from getting a hefty bill on repairs.

Gear Slippage

This one is relatively easy to notice. It means your transmission changes gears when it shouldn’t. This not only causes further damage, but it is dangerous to drive such a car as well.
You’ll experience a rough jerking sensation as the RPMs escalate without warning.

Clunking/Whining Sound

One reason for this is the reduction in tranny fluid, which acts as a lubricant, creating a thin layer between the metal.
Without it, metal meets metal, creating a clunking or whining sound when the gears shift.

Issues Shifting Gears

If your transmission delays or jerks while changing gears, the transmission fluid is running low.

As with the early symptoms, taking your vehicle in for an inspection at the early signs of a problem will help prevent the transmission issue from worsening. Less damage matches a smaller repair bill.

When your car only needs extra transmission fluid, then you can have your car repaired as it won’t cost too heavy in your pocket, but if the transmission needs repair or a complete replacement, it is probably not a good idea to keep the vehicle.

Sell Your Car for Cash Instead

If you feel that your car is suffering from severe damage, you can ditch the repair costs and Sell your Car for Cash. Mega Car Wreckers are a leading Melbourne Wrecker that buys vehicles of all makes and conditions. So, even if your car is damaged or not working, we will buy it as it is. This means you don’t have to worry about repair costs. We also offer free towing to bring your car to our yard, so you don’t even have to worry about how to bring your vehicle over to us! Sell your car, truck, van, ute or bus today for top dollar.

If you want to know the estimated amount of your car in its current state, you can contact the team of Mega Car Wreckers on 0413 927 850 or 0432 012 232.