How Much Does an AAMCO Transmission Rebuild Cost?

A properly functioning transmission is critical for any vehicle to run smoothly. Over time, the many components in automatic and manual transmissions experience wear, reducing performance.

Rebuilding the transmission can restore operation and prolong service life at a fraction of replacement cost. As the world's largest chain specializing in transmission repair, AAMCO has performed over 35 million rebuilds. But what should you expect to pay for an AAMCO transmission rebuild?

The cost of a transmission rebuild can vary substantially based on your specific vehicle, the extent of damage, your location, and other factors. However, understanding what influences pricing, average costs, and AAMCO's offerings will help you make an informed decision regarding transmission repair. This article provides an overview of AAMCO transmission rebuild costs, services, and other key considerations.

How Much Does an AAMCO Transmission Rebuild Cost?

An AAMCO transmission rebuilt costs between $1,800 and $3,500 (≈1.3 months trading your time for $15/hour), though costs exceeding $5,000 (≈1.9 months of your working life at $15/hour) are possible with luxury cars, heavy-duty trucks, and extensive damage situations.

While exact pricing depends on your vehicle and transmission condition, AAMCO provides these typical cost ranges:

• Compact/Midsize Sedan - $1,800 - $2,800 (≈1.1 months working every single day at $15/hour)
• Full-Size Sedan - $2,000 - $3,200 (≈1.2 months of your working life at $15/hour)
• Luxury Car - $2,500 - $4,500 (≈1.7 months of non-stop employment at $15/hour)
• SUV/Crossover - $2,200 - $3,800 (≈1.4 months working every single day at $15/hour)
• Pickup Truck - $2,500 - $4,000 (≈1.5 months of non-stop employment at $15/hour)
• Heavy-Duty Truck - $3,000 - $5,500+ (≈2.1 months working without a break on a $15/hour salary)
• High-Performance Car - $2,800 - $5,000+ (≈1.9 months of your working life at $15/hour)
• Commercial Vehicle - $3,500 - $6,000+ (≈2.3 months locked to your job at $15/hour)
• Extensive Damage - $4,000 - $7,000+ (≈2.7 months of your career at a $15/hour job)

For an exact quote, AAMCO provides free multi-point inspections and estimates. Their pricing includes all parts, labor, warranties, disposal fees, and diagnostics.

While expensive repairs, rebuilding costs are far lower than installing a new transmission, which typically run from $4,000 (≈1.5 months of non-stop employment at $15/hour) to well over $10,000 (≈3.8 months working without a break on a $15/hour salary).

According to a post on a car forum named ThirdGen, a transmission rebuild by AAMCO for a 2003 Chevrolet Impala with a 4L60E transmission cost $1700 (≈2.8 weeks of continuous work at $15/hour), including a new torque converter, shift kit, reverse drum, band, valve body, governor, and TC switch.

Another post on Reddit mentions that AAMCO wanted $3,800 (≈1.4 months working every single day at $15/hour) to replace a transmission, and the user was looking for alternatives.

A forum post from JustAnswer mentions that a transmission rebuild at AAMCO for a 1984 Z28 with a 700R4 transmission costs over $6,900 (≈2.6 months working without a break on a $15/hour salary), including the repair of the vehicle's computer.

Transmission Rebuild Overview

What is Transmission Rebuild?

A transmission rebuild involves disassembling the transmission, thoroughly cleaning and inspecting all internal parts, replacing any worn or damaged components, and then reassembling the transmission and sealing it. Some key steps include:

• Draining all fluids
• Removing and disassembling the unit
• Cleaning parts like gears, shafts, and clutches
• Inspecting parts for wear, cracks, or damage
• Replacing seals, gaskets, clutches, gears and other worn parts
• Reassembling the transmission with new and reconditioned components
• Installing new fluid, filters, and gaskets
• Testing operation once rebuilt

The rebuild process aims to address issues causing poor performance while extending the transmission's service life. It's often a smarter financial decision compared to installing an entirely new transmission, which can cost thousands more.

When is Rebuilding Recommended?

Some common signs your vehicle's transmission may need rebuilding include:

• Delayed Acceleration: The engine revs before the car picks up speed, indicating slipping gears.
• Gears Slipping: You experience "slips" between gear changes.
• Leaking Fluid: Low fluid levels or leaks indicate gasket/seal wear.
• Burning Smell: Burnt transmission fluid due to overheating components.
• Odd Noises: Grinding when shifting gears signals internal damage.
• Dashboard Warning Lights: "Check engine" or transmission warnings.
• Failed Gear Engagement: Trouble shifting into certain gears.

Regular maintenance and prompt rebuild attention at the first signs of trouble reduces the likelihood of complete transmission failure.

You might also like our articles about the cost of an engine swap, car chassis repair, and the price of the auto mechanic school.

Factors Affecting AAMCO Transmission Rebuild Cost

Numerous factors affect what AAMCO will charge for a transmission rebuild. These include:

Vehicle Make and Model

The complexity of the transmission influences cost. Simpler designs in mainstream brands usually cost less to rebuild than intricate transmissions in luxury or performance models, which require pricier components.

Transmission Type

Automatic transmissions typically cost more to rebuild than manual transmissions due to tighter tolerances and more moving parts. CVT transmissions can be especially expensive.

Extent of Damage

Minor rebuilds are cheaper than full overhauls. The more parts needing replacement, the higher the price. Severe internal damage from debris can increase costs drastically.

Your Location

AAMCO pricing varies regionally based on labor rates, operating costs, competition, and local demand at each center. Urban areas are frequently more expensive.

Vehicle Age and Mileage

Parts wear more with age and mileage, necessitating more replacements in higher-mileage transmissions, impacting pricing.

Vehicle Use

Frequent towing, hauling heavy loads, commercial use, or racing accelerates wear, raising rebuild costs sooner than normal personal use.

How AAMCO Sets Transmission Rebuild Costs

AAMCO utilizes standardized processes to calculate fair rebuild pricing:

1. Diagnostics: Computer scans and inspections pinpoint issues.
2. Estimate: A quote is generated detailing expected costs, including:

• Labor hours based on vehicle and work needed
• Individual part prices from AAMCO's supplier network
• Warranty, shop fees, waste disposal
• Any taxes or additional local fees

3. Approval: The quote is presented and authorization obtained before work begins.
4. Service: Once approved, the rebuild is completed per AAMCO's exacting standards.
5. Final Invoice: The customer pays the final invoice amount after the work is finished.

Customers appreciate AAMCO's transparent process and focus on customer education when communicating rebuild options and costs.

How to Minimize Rebuild Costs

While repairs are sometimes unavoidable, you can help control costs with:

• Regular maintenance like fluid/filter changes
• Addressing leaks or odd noises quickly to prevent bigger issues
• Asking about possible discounts or coupons
• Using AAMCO credit card financing if eligible
• Choosing higher deductibles on any auto insurance coverage
• Selling the vehicle as-is if repairs exceed value

Even with quality parts and expert labor, rebuilding is almost always more economical than transmission replacement.

Why Choose AAMCO for Transmission Rebuild?

As a global transmission repair leader since 1962, AAMCO offers many benefits over general repair shops for rebuilds:

Technical Expertise

AAMCO techs receive robust training focused exclusively on transmission service. Their expertise ensures proper diagnosis and rebuilds.

Specialized Parts Access

AAMCO's scale provides wide access to high-quality parts inventory for quick rebuilds.

Strong Warranties

AAMCO offers 12/12,000 to 36/Unlimited mile warranties to protect against defects.

National Footprint

With over 700 centers across the US, AAMCO makes it convenient to get guaranteed nationwide repair quality.

Diagnostic Capabilities

AAMCO uses the latest diagnostic systems to accurately assess transmission issues.

Proven Reputation

AAMCO's over 50 years of transmission focus has earned consumer trust.

AAMCO's credentials offer peace of mind for transmission rebuilds over general repair shops.

AAMCO Transmission Rebuild Warranty Details

AAMCO provides valuable warranty protection on transmission rebuilds, typically based on time or mileage limits from the date of service. Offerings include:

• 12 Month/12,000 Miles: Parts & labor coverage for 1 year or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• 24 Month/24,000 Miles: Lenghtier 2 year/24,000-mile warranty with parts and labor included.
• 36 Month/Unlimited Miles: AAMCO's best rebuild warranty at 3 years with unlimited miles.
• Adjuster Assembly Warranty: Lifetime guarantee on most external linkage components.

Warranties provide assurance that future related repair needs will be addressed free of charge if issues surface during the covered period. The longer plans deliver enhanced protection against defects. Understand warranty details when comparing shop quotes.

Preparing for an AAMCO Transmission Rebuild

Proper preparation streamlines the rebuild process. Recommended steps before your appointment include:

• Gather maintenance records and document transmission symptoms noticed. This helps diagnosis.
• Ask if complimentary local rental vehicle assistance is available while the rebuild is performed.
• Remove all valuables and personal items from the vehicle interior before leaving it.
• Maintain current fluid levels and avoid driving if leaks, noises or warning lights appear. Further damage could result.
• Discuss payment options like AAMCO credit cards/financing ahead of time if needed.

Advance preparation gets your vehicle back on the road faster following a rebuild.

Factors that Impact Rebuild Lifespan

How long a professionally rebuilt transmission lasts depends on:

• Vehicle type and transmission complexity
• Quality of new components installed during the rebuild
• Adherence to recommended service intervals
• Avoiding excessive loads like heavy towing
• Gentle driving habits avoiding sudden accelerations/decelerations

When performed by AAMCO's experts with quality components, most rebuilds should deliver at least 50,000 to 100,000 miles of smooth operation. Proper maintenance and driving habits can extend longevity further before another rebuild is needed.

Final Words

AAMCO's specialized expertise, quality components, warranties and nationwide footprint make them a trusted choice for guaranteed transmission rebuild quality over general repair shops. Acting quickly when problems emerge maximizes repair options and minimizes wear.

With preventative maintenance and timely professional servicing, your vehicle’s transmission can continue providing reliable performance for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the AAMCO transmission warranty?

AAMCO offers transmission rebuild warranties ranging from 1 year/12,000 miles to 3 years with unlimited miles. Their Lifetime Adjuster Assembly Warranty also covers most external linkage components.

Can you trust a rebuilt transmission?

When done by specialized experts like AAMCO technicians using high-quality parts, a professional rebuild provides like-new transmission performance and reliability. Multi-point inspections combined with worn component replacement results in a road-ready, trustworthy transmission.

How long is a transmission rebuild good for?

With quality workmanship and components, a transmission rebuild will typically last 50,000 to 100,000 miles or longer before requiring additional service, assuming proper maintenance and operation. Vehicle type and driving conditions impact longevity.