August 01st, 2022 0 Comments

​5 Questions to Ask Before a Transmission Rebuild

​If your car is experiencing transmission problems, it may be time for a rebuild. However, before making this expensive decision, there are a few key questions you need to ask your mechanic. By understanding the answers to these questions, you'll be better able to make an informed decision about your vehicle’s transmission. Here are 5 important questions to ask before agreeing to the terms of a transmission rebuild. 

​1. Is my existing transmission being rebuilt or being replaced with a remanufactured or used rebuild?

​The workmanship and quality of a transmission rebuild are important to its health, longevity, efficiency as well as cost-effectiveness.  When the shop replaces your transmission with a factory-rebuilt transmission, it is likely more reliable than if it was rebuilt in the shop without scrutinized inspections. In addition, installing a remanufactured transmission means less labor is required, which helps reduce the cost of this labor-intensive work.
The success rate and quality of a transmission rebuild can be assured by hiring an experienced mechanic with a specific transmission skillset. Although it’s typically less expensive to replace a blown transmission, it may be possible for an experienced technician to complete the job quickly and just as well as a factory.

​2. Will the transmission rebuild include a warranty?

​It’s important to ask if the estimate for the rebuild includes a warranty for replacement, repairs, and service. Should problems arise with the used rebuild, it’s reassuring that it can be fixed or replaced for free under a warranty. 
This should include a warranty for rebuilding the existing transmission in the shop. If they intend to remove your transmission and rebuild it in-house, then they should have some type of repair or replacement terms to protect you in the event of poor work.

​3. How long is the warranty and what does it cover? 

​Have the terms of the warranty explained to you in detail, including how long the warranty is good for, and what is specifically covered within that time frame. Examples of factory rebuild warranties are a 30,000-mile, a 50,000-mile, or even an extended warranty that covers the life of the vehicle.
Also ask if the warranty is transferrable, in case you choose to sell in the future which could mean a huge resale benefit and value. 

​4. Will I need to get my transmission serviced at the same shop for the warranty to remain valid?

​Be sure to read the fine print, including any clauses that could void the warranty. Make sure to ask specifically whether you must have maintenance performed there or if it’s okay to have it serviced elsewhere, and if so for how long. 
If the shop’s requirement is to have all future services performed there, this may be an inconvenience and borderline excessive. You may want to think twice about rebuild agreements that include unrealistic terms.

​5. What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the rebuilt transmission?

​Once the rebuilt transmission is installed, it’s important to keep it maintained properly. Ask the mechanic for the specific factory recommended maintenance and inspection schedule for your vehicle or for general guidelines to maximize the life of your new transmission rebuild.

​Contact Best Western

​If you have determined that a transmission rebuild is necessary, it’s important to take the time to select the right reliable shop and ask the right questions. At Best Western Transmission, our certified mechanics will ensure you feel confident in your decision and our work. We’ve been fixing transmissions since 1975 and will make sure you get your vehicle back on the road as quickly as possible.