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Everyone knows having trouble with a cars transmission can be costly and stressful. When your vehicle stops functioning properly and you notice that something is wrong, the most frustrating part is figuring out what has happened and deciding if you need a transmission rebuild or a transmission replace. Knowing the difference can be confusing but it doesn’t have to be.
image of transmission cracked open, needs repair.
Once you have come to the conclusion that it’s actually the transmission that needs to be fixed, this can lead to an entirely new set of conclusions that may be drawn. Many of us make the mistake of bringing our vehicle to any transmission repair shop that may do it quickly or at a reasonable price. However, you need a reputable mechanic shop that knows how to correctly diagnose what has failed.

Even though a transmission repair can cost a lot, it is worth doing it right the first time with someone you can trust. A repair shop that knows how to correctly diagnose what the problem really is and how to fix it the right way is ideal. There are actually three different options when it comes to getting your transmission back to a good working condition-make sure that the right option is chosen for your particular issue.

Transmission Fix Options

The first option to fixing a transmission is to have it “repaired.” Having the option to do a repair is less likely because it can’t be done if the parts that are going bad have caused too much damage.

When repairing a transmission you are basically replacing the minimum amount of parts so that the transmission is brought back to good working condition. This typically costs less, so it is smart to get the right diagnosis of your transmission the first time around.

The next option is to have your transmission “replaced.” This means that you will completely replace the entire transmission and this can be very costly. There are some downfalls to choosing this option.

The last option is having your transmission “rebuilt.” This means that the parts that are completely worn out will be rebuilt one by one and may not cost as much as a complete replace.

Transmission Replace


One thing to keep in mind with a replace is the transmission is redone in a factory setting. The positive to having this done is that the people working on it can be skilled specifically to that particular transmission. The transmission you are replacing it with will be updated to the pre-built factory specifications. There can be positive implications with this depending on your overall goal and how bad your transmission has failed.

Why Choose to Rebuild over Replace

A transmission rebuild is a great option in most cases. This means you are only replacing the parts that have failed. Just like a replace, you are fixing certain parts, but not doing it in a factory setting. You will want a very reputable repair shop to have this done.

You may want to have a rebuild over a replace because it can cost less because it is not done on the factory level. Also, often times it is known that having it done in a factory setting does not necessarily mean that all the parts are brand new from the manufacturer. You are simply having a different type of mechanic replacing the parts. In most cases, brand new transmissions are only done when new cars are produced.

When rebuilding a transmission, you will be putting in parts such as the seals, gaskets, clutch, bands, etc. These are most often what are worn out in a transmission when it is taken apart. The auto repair shop will disassemble and clean the parts first. Then a new torque converter is used and the solenoids will be replaced. Once all this has been finished, the transmission will be reassembled and put back into your vehicle, so make sure you have a mechanic that knows what they are doing during every step of the process.

If you’re looking for a reputable shop to help you identify specifically what has failed on your vehicle and think you need a transmission repair immediately, Schedule an Appointment before it is too late. Call Us Today at (817) 431-0009 for a FREE diagnostic test now from our team of experts at AAMCO Keller.


Fixing your transmission problem right starts with diagnosing your problem right! That’s why we will perform our exclusive multi-point transmission scan service on every car before we do any transmission repair.