Transmission Repairs: Should You Get a New, Reconditioned, or Used Transmission?
Do you need to replace the transmission in your vehicle? If so, you may be weighing the available repair options. You have the choice to get a new, reconditioned, or used transmission. Used transmissions are sourced from salvage yards. Reconditioning refers to the process where your current transmission undergoes a rebuild to replace damaged or worn parts. If you are having a hard time choosing, here are a few factors to guide you.
The Extent of the Damage
How damaged is your current transmission? Can the worn parts be easily repaired, or are most of the components damaged? If you're dealing with extensive damage, getting a new transmission may be an excellent choice. Rebuilding your current one with new parts may end up as costly as a new one, and this may not be ideal in the long run. However, if the repairs are not extensive, you can always repair the components. What's more, a visit to a wrecking yard can get you quality, used transmission parts, hence reducing the cost of repairs.
Transmission Quality and Performance
Before repairing or replacing your current transmission, consider the quality and performance of the new components. For a new transmission, quality and performance are guaranteed as most of them are sourced from manufacturers. Therefore, if you're looking for trouble-free service, a new transmission would be an excellent option. If you opt for a transmission rebuild, ensure you get quality replacement parts.
On the other hand, replacing your entire transmission with a used one has no quality guarantee. This is especially true if you don't take time to inspect the parts. Eventually, you may end up reconditioning the used transmission or trashing it for a new one. Therefore, if possible, get a mechanic to test the parts and inspect them for wear and damage before making a purchase.
Product Warranty
Both new and reconditioned transmissions come with a warranty. Some reconditioned transmissions even have a longer guarantee than what you'd get with new ones. All you need to do is find a reputable dealer for the rebuilds. On the other hand, most used transmissions don't have a warranty guarantee as they are sourced from salvage yards. At most, you may only get a one or two-month warranty.
Cost of Repairs
New transmissions tend to be the most expensive of the three options. However, reconditioning can also be costly, especially if the individual parts being repaired are costly. Used transmissions are the cheapest. When making a choice, compare the cost against all the other factors. For example, while a used transmission is inexpensive, it has no quality guarantee and may break down within a short time. On the other hand, new and reconditioned ones are costly, but worth the price tag.
Whichever choice you make, talk to an experienced mechanic for professional transmission repair services!
