How are Transmissions Rebuilt: Steps and Timeline

July 18, 2024

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Someone learning how a transmission is rebuilt.

Next to the engine, the transmission is arguably the most important component under the hood of any vehicle. Responsible for converting power from the engine to move the vehicle, the transmission is also a complex component. It consists of various gears and torque converters to ensure the vehicle starts and stops properly. There are various types of transmissions, with the two most popular being manual and automatic.

Like all vehicle components, however, transmissions have a shelf life. And when a transmission reaches the end of its lifetime, you have a few options. One is to rebuild it. If you elect to do it yourself, kits cost several hundred dollars.

In this post, we'll cover how to rebuild a transmission. Read on to learn more or contact Wrecktify Collision today.

Understanding Transmission Rebuild

A transmission rebuild is far from a routine automotive practice. That's why unless you are a major gearhead, any work with the transmission is best left to the professionals. So why should you rebuild a transmission? Simple: To get it operating like new again for the betterment of your vehicle overall.

Signs Indicating the Need for a Transmission Rebuild

There are various telltale signs that your transmission needs to be serviced. Some of these include:

Difficulty shifting gears
The vehicle won't enter a gear
You hear strange noises coming from under the hood of your vehicle
The vehicle doesn't change gears or accelerate smoothly
Fluid leakage or a burning smell is coming from the engine

Transmission Rebuild Process

Here's an overview of the transmission rebuild process.

Removing Transmission

First, the transmission needs to be removed from the vehicle. Contrary to what you may think, this is a pretty complicated process, as many other vehicle components may also need to be removed before you can reach the transmission.

Disassembling the Transmission

Next, drain any transmission fluid and disassemble the transmission. Make sure parts are labeled properly.

Cleaning and Inspecting Transmission Parts

While some of the parts you'll disassemble will be discarded, it's important to clean the parts that you plan to reuse. A part washer or a pressure washer should do the trick.

Rebuilding with a Rebuild Kit

Now, you can begin the rebuild process. If you're doing this yourself, we suggest getting a rebuild kit to help guide you. Follow the instructions in the kit and work slowly and carefully to avoid mistakes.

Reinstalling the Transmission

When the rebuild is complete, it's time to reinstall the transmission and any other parts or components you had to remove to access it.

Cost of a Rebuilt Transmission

As we said, the transmission is probably the second-most important vehicle component aside from the engine. That said, rebuilds tend to cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 when done by a professional.

How long does it take to rebuild a transmission? If it's done by a professional, the timeline is likely to be a few days. If you do it yourself, it depends on how much time you have to dedicate to your vehicle. It could take anywhere from a week to a few months.