The average car repair costs in the US can be up to six times more than what you pay for your electricity each month.
Auto repair costs, after all, average between $500 and $600. Average monthly electricity bills, on the other hand, was only $117.65 in 2018.
If you’re dealing with a car transmission failure issue, however, your costs will be a lot higher. Transmission replacements typically cost between $1,200 and $4,100.
So, is there any way that you can avoid such high costs? Is it even possible to go for transmission repair instead of a full replacement?
We’ll address all these questions below, so be sure to read on!
First Things First: Do You Really Have a Transmission Failure Problem?
A car that’s slow to start emits burning smells, and has slipping gears may have a bad transmission. However, these symptoms can also be due to more minor issues that are easy and cheap to fix. For instance, burning odors and leaks can be simply due to a loose oil cap, drain plug, or filter.
If it’s also hard to shift and you hear noises from under the hood though, you likely have a bad transmission. It’s best to get your ride checked out by a mechanic ASAP. This way, the mechanic still has time to carry out the needed transmission repair before it dies.
When Transmission Repairs Can Still Cut It
You can still fix a transmission system if it only sprung a leak or has a few failed solenoids. You can also go for transmission repair if it’s only the input shaft that broke or it only has worn gears. So long as the issue affects only a few specific components, it’s possible to repair just those parts.
When Your Ride Warrants a Replacement Transmission
If your car’s transmission is about to fail, the mechanic may suggest that you get a replacement. The same goes for a transmission system that requires extensive part replacements.
Your mechanic may also advise you to get a replacement if you have an older car. In this case, the replacement parts for your current transmission system may be harder to come by. The harder it is to find replacement parts, the more expensive they will be.
Your Other Option: Sell Your Car as Is
Since a new or a replacement transmission system costs thousands of dollars, it may not be your best bet. Especially since you can buy a used car in working condition for less than $10,000. It won’t make much sense to shell out up to $4,000 just to get your transmission replaced.
In this case, you may want to sell your old clunker instead or look up offers of cash for junk cars. You might be able to sell your beater as is, and then save up the cash to buy a better, smoother ride.
Weigh Your Options Before Getting That New Transmission System
As you can see, transmission failure is one of the most expensive problems you can ever encounter as a car owner. That’s why you should stick to your recommended auto maintenance schedule. Change your transmission fluid as scheduled, and never let leaks remain unfixed.
If your transmission really needs a replacement though, be sure to think hard if it’s worth the price. If your car is more than 10 years old, it may be best to just sell it off.
Want to stay in the loop of the latest news in the auto world? Be sure to follow our site then so you can get freshest, hottest updates right in your inbox!
