How long does it take to rebuild a transmission?

by siteadmin
May 2, 2023

When considering this auto repair, it is important to understand the time and cost involved. The process is influenced by both time and financial investment. This article examines the factors that affect the duration of a rebuilding transmission, and sheds light on the costs and timeframes involved.

Factors that affect transmission rebuild time:

The transmission rebuilding process begins with diagnosing the problem, removing it, ordering the parts, performing the repair or rebuild, and then reinstalling it. The time it takes to complete this procedure is determined by several factors. Let's look at these factors.

Diagnostic Phase:

Your transmission specialist will first diagnose the problem. A correct diagnosis is essential to ensure that the subsequent repairs are effective. The time needed for this phase is dependent on the complexity of problem and the expertise level of the specialist.

Transmission Removal

After diagnosing the problem, the transmission must be removed from the car. This step can take a long time depending on how accessible and designed the transmission is. The removal of transmissions that are widely available and simpler can be done quickly. More complex models may require more time and expertise.

Ordering Parts:

The time it takes to order, receive and install replacement parts can also affect the length of the rebuild. The availability of parts can add time to the process, especially if you are working with exotic or European models. There are so many components in a transmission that sometimes a part may be days away from your location. Many shops can order used or aftermarket parts from a dismantler. However, many only order OEM or original parts to ensure quality. This is another factor that could cause your rebuild to take a few extra days.

Rebuild or Repair:

Transmission rebuilding or repair requires expertise and meticulous attention to detail. The duration of this phase is affected by the complexity of the transmission and any specialized components. Transmission rebuilders with experience can often complete two standard transmission rebuilds within a single day. However, transmissions that are more complex or specialized may require a full day or even longer to restore them properly.

Reinstallation Process:

After the transmission has either been rebuilt or repaired it must be reinstalled into the vehicle. This step involves reconnecting different components and ensuring alignment. The time needed for reinstallation is determined by the vehicle's design, and the experience of the specialist doing the job. Some installs require the removal of more parts than others. This will result in a higher labor cost and cost.

Cost Considerations

It's important to understand that time is a factor, but also the cost of rebuilding your transmission. Some parts in a transmission can be more expensive than others due to their size or availability. Labor is another major cost factor. Let's look at this further.

Labor Costs

The labor costs are determined by the expertise and experience of a transmission rebuilder. In general, skilled rebuilders are able to complete two common transmissions in one day. Labor costs may increase for transmissions that are more complex or specialized due to the extra time and attention needed. With their unique complexity and specialty components, exotic and European models typically require more labor, which contributes to higher costs.

Components with Higher Cost

A rebuilder may order a master set that includes all the steels, frictions, bushings and pistons or other parts that need to be changed. You may need to replace the solenoid block, valve body assembly or other parts of the transmission if there is enough damage. These transmission components can be very expensive, but once replaced, your transmission will work like a new one.

Choose Capistrano Transmission & Auto Repair for your Rebuild Today!

Rebuilding a transmission is a time-consuming and expensive process. The overall duration of a transmission rebuilding procedure is affected by a number of factors. These include diagnostic time, transmission removal and parts ordering, rebuilding or repairing the transmission, and reinstallation. The final cost of the procedure is also affected by labor costs. These are determined by the complexity and specialized nature of the transmission. Understanding these factors will help you to better estimate the time and cost of having your transmission rebuilt. You can also make informed decisions about your vehicle's maintenance needs.