As a short-term, cost-effective solution for an older vehicle, buying a used transmission from a junkyard can be a worthwhile option, but you need to do your homework (and cross your fingers). Purchasing a transmission from an auto scrapyard to try to save a few bucks is a risky business.
How do you know if a transmission is good from a junkyard?
The output shaft should spin when the transmission is in a forward/revers gear, and the input shaft is rotated. Finally, grab the output shaft and pull/push it to check for excessive play. If no obvious problems are noted, then you likely have a good junkyard transmission.
How much does a salvage transmission cost?
How Much Does a Used Transmission Cost?
| Repair Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Replacement Labor (R+R) | $500 to $1200 |
| – Used / Salvage Yard | $800 to $1500 |
| – Rebuilt / Local Rebuild | $1100 to $2800 |
| – Remanufactured | $1300 to $3400 |
How much is a transmission worth?
Here’s a quick overview of the average transmission cost: Remanufactured transmission – $1,300 to $3,400. Used/Salvage – $800 to $1,500. Rebuilt – $1,100 to $2,800.
Is there a way to test a used transmission?
You can test the transmission by putting it through the gears while turning the input shaft and examining the output shaft for proper rotation. You cannot test the clutch while off the car.
How long does it take to pull a transmission out?
It usually only takes a day or two to replace a transmission in most rear wheel vehicles. However, some late-model, front-wheel drive vehicles can be quite labor-intensive and take three to four days.
Is it cheaper to rebuild a transmission or replace it?
Generally, if a repair estimate costs more than a rebuild, then the rebuild is the service to go with. If the cost of a replacement transmission costs less than a repair or rebuild, then the replacement is the best alternative. Most importantly, you should only use the services of transmission professionals.
Will a transmission fluid change Fix slipping?
In the case of transmission slipping due to minor problems, such as low fluid levels, ineffective or burnt fluid, or a leak in the transmission, you may be able to fix the problem yourself. Most people should be able to check the fluid themselves and many will feel comfortable changing it as well.
What to do if your transmission is slipping?
Transmission bands can wear out and cause slipping.
To fix this problem, the defective bands should be replaced. Sometimes the bands are fine and only need adjustment. The clutch plates might also need to be replaced or adjusted.
Is it worth fixing my transmission?
Transmissions are one of the most expensive repairs that you can make on a vehicle. … If the car is relatively new and in great condition other than the transmission, then it is probably worth fixing. Other reasons to fix the transmission of a vehicle include you having a vintage car that is worth the money to fix.
What are signs of automatic transmission problems?
7 Most Common Automatic Transmission Problems
- Grinding or shaking sensation in gear.
- Car won’t engage or respond when in gear.
- Makes Noises: whining, humming or clunking, noisy in neutral.
- Smells like its burning.
- Gears Slipping.
- Low or leaking fluid.
- Check engine light is on.
How do you know if your transmission is failing?
Clunking, humming or whining sounds are signs of automatic transmission problems. Faulty manual transmissions will also give off loud machinelike sounds that seem to come out of nowhere. A clunking noise when you shift gears is a telltale transmission situation.