Frequently Asked Transmission Questions

A vehicle running correctly shouldn’t give off any smell at all. If you smell burning while your engine is running, it may be your transmission’s vital fluid.

It is a good rule of thumb to change your transmission fluid for every 30,000 miles that you drive it. If you subject your vehicle to heavy use, such as pulling trailers or towing, it is wise to check your transmission fluid every 15,000 miles and change it if necessary. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will detail how frequently your vehicle requires a transmission fluid change, so consult it for a more exact idea of your transmission fluid needs.

That depends on several factors, including the type of vehicle and whether a used or new transmission is being installed. A used or salvaged transmission can cost anywhere between $800 and $1,500 dollars; a rebuilt transmission can cost anywhere between $1,000 and $2,800. On average, the cost of parts and labor will fall within the range of $1,800 to $3,500.

This depends on several factors as well as the type of repair being done. If your transmission is simply low on fluid, replacing it may cost around $100. Minor repairs to components such as the clutch and solenoids could range anywhere between $300 and $1,400. The important thing to bear in mind with repairs is that they are nearly always preferable to the total transmission failure that will ensue if small, easily addressed problems are not taken care of in a timely fashion.