Ever wondered about the duration of a transmission rebuild? It involves the complete dismantling and rebuilding of the gearbox, with most parts replaced to restore functionality. When dealing with defective or broken components, rebuilding the transmission is a viable solution, provided each step is executed carefully and accurately.
Given the complexity of gearboxes and the multitude of moving parts involved, the rebuilding process is time-consuming. Skilled home mechanics can tackle this task, but if even changing oil makes you nervous, it’s best to seek expert assistance. If you’re in need of a rebuilt transmission, the waiting time is a crucial question. This article provides insights into the timeframe required for a successful transmission rebuild.
About a Transmission Rebuild
To undertake a transmission repair, a transmission rebuild kit containing all essential replacement parts is necessary. Depending on the kit you choose, it may or may not include bands, seals, steels, clutches, gaskets, O-rings, modulators, filters, bushings, and washers.
Once you’ve determined the replacement components, the mechanic or technician will remove the transmission from the vehicle’s chassis, usually utilizing a specialized transmission jack, to begin the disassembly process. During this step, numerous transmission components will be replaced to ensure a thorough rebuild.
Transmission Expenses
| Shop Transmission Rebuild | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Minor Repairs | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Complete Repair | $3,000 – $4,000 |
The rebuild kits offer affordability, but labor costs contribute significantly to the overall expense of a transmission rebuild. If you take your vehicle to a shop, the cost can range from $3,000 to $6,000.
For minor repairs, the transmission repair expense typically falls between $1,000 and $2,000, while a complete repair may cost $3,000 to $4,000.
The overall budget depends on factors such as the vehicle’s model, gearbox type, and parts cost. Labor is the priciest aspect of a rebuild as it involves removing the transmission, disassembling it, replacing the majority of components, and reassembling it.
However, if you choose to replace the gearbox yourself, costs can be significantly lower. All you need is a rebuild kit and some automotive equipment. Rebuild kits range from $50 to $300, depending on the parts’ inclusion and quality. On average, a DIY rebuild may cost less than $500, but it requires skill and understanding to do it correctly. Many opt for professional rebuilds due to time constraints and lack of expertise in transmission repair.
In terms of time, most people aim to get their cars back on the road swiftly. A transmission repair can take as little as one day, with the average being three to four days. Detaching the transmission in an auto shop can make a day-long rebuild feasible. Generally, the process of examining, repairing, refurbishing, and restoring your vehicle takes around four days on average.
How Long Does it Take to Rebuild a Manual Transmission?
Manual transmission typically requires less time than automatic transmission for various tasks, often taking around a day or two to complete.
For many people, a car is simply a means of transportation from point A to point B. The focus is on getting to their destination efficiently, and anything that complicates the process is usually avoided.
Steps to Rebuild Manual Transmission
Follow these steps to determine if your issue is related to the clutch and perform a transmission rebuild:
- Disassemble the transmission from your car or truck;
- Inspect the clutch disc, pressure plate, flywheel, and other related components;
- Replace any damaged or cracked elements required for the clutch to function properly;
- Reinstall the transmission and check the transmission fluid level, topping it up if necessary;
- Conduct a lift check to ensure the clutch is installed and adjusted correctly;
- Perform a street test on your automobile, vehicle, or SUV to verify optimal transmission and clutch operation. Once confirmed, it will be ready for miles of smooth driving.
How Long Does it Take to Rebuild an Automatic Transmission?
Compared to manual transmission systems, automatic transmission systems are significantly more intricate and involved. The complexity arises from the numerous materials and components that must move automatically, making the process more time-consuming. Consequently, a complete automatic transmission rebuild typically requires three to four days to ensure proper functioning and seamless operation.
Conclusion
While a manual gearbox empowers the driver to physically shift gear ratios, an automatic gearbox relies on fluid pressure for its operations. The automatic transmission fluid facilitates the necessary pressure to engage clutches and bands, thereby determining the vehicle’s gear. As a result of its more intricate design, an automatic transmission rebuild typically demands 3 to 4 days to complete. On the other hand, a manual transmission rebuild usually requires up to 2 days, given its comparatively simpler construction.