Whether or not it's worth repairing a car with a bad transmission depends on several factors, including the age of the car, the cost of the transmission repair, the market value of the car, and your personal financial situation.
If the vehicle is relatively new or otherwise well-maintained, and the transmission repair cost is low compared to the car's market value, it may be worth repairing the transmission. Even if the cost of the transmission repair is on the more expensive side, it's unlikely to be as expensive as purchasing another vehicle; or at least, a good vehicle. However, if you drive an old vehicle with a low market value and find yourself looking at a higher transmission repair cost, it might make more economic sense to see what's on the market.
Keep in mind that some vehicle makes and models have the potential to last 200k miles or more. Drivers who reach higher mileage thresholds tend to take especially good care of their cars, keeping up on routine maintenance and practicing good driving habits. If you have an older vehicle but you know its service history and expect it to reach another 100k miles or greater, it might make good financial sense to request a transmission repair or replacement service.
Transmission repair costs vary depending on the issue, and some repairs may be less expensive than you think. Transmission failure occurs for many reasons, from general wear-and-tear to other causes. To make an informed decision, you'll need to have a mechanic inspect the car, so you can decide if its worth repairing the transmission.
Reasons why a transmission might fail include the following:
Overheating: If there is an issue with the cooling system that causes the engine to overheat, this can result in the transmission fluid breaking down. If the transmission fluid breaks down, there is less lubrication, resulting in friction and wear. Should your vehicle overheat, pull off the road to a safe location as soon as possible. Overheating can damage many car parts, fluids, and systems, so it's advisable to avoid driving and correct the issue as soon as possible.
Lack of Maintenance: Preventive maintenance helps you keep your vehicle running longer and may net you a higher resale value down the road if you choose to sell your car. Your owner's manual will tell you what services to have done at what mileage intervals. One maintenance item is to check and change the transmission fluid. Contaminants can build up in old transmission fluid, creating wear on transmission components and ultimately leading to transmission failure.
Mechanical Failure: Sometimes you can't escape a mechanical failure. Transmission parts, among other system parts, wear from use and time. Overly worn or damaged gears, shafts, and bearings can lead to transmission failure. If another system in your vehicle isn't operating correctly, this may also result in unnecessary stress on the transmission. That's why it's important to seek an auto repair shop when you experience issues with your vehicle's performance.
It's important to have a qualified mechanic perform maintenance and diagnose transmission issues. Should you need a transmission repair shop in Puyallup, Washington, always choose a transmission mechanic or repair center with a reputation for high-quality workmanship.
When considering a transmission replacement or repair, ask yourself the following questions:
After you know what type of transmission repair you need and have an estimate, factor in the pros and cons of your options.
15th Street Automotive provides transmission repairs in Puyallup, WA. Our ASE-certified technicians will identify the cause of the transmission failure and discuss repair options and prices with you. We'll assist you in deciding whether or not it's worth repairing the transmission in your circumstance.
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