How Much Does an Automatic Transmission Cost in 2025?

Expect to spend about $3,500–$9,500 installed for a mainstream automatic transmission replacement in 2025, $8,000–$18,000 for luxury, performance, dual-clutch, or hybrid systems, and $2,500–$5,500 for a professional rebuild of your existing unit. Part-only prices range from roughly $1,800–$6,000 for remanufactured units to $3,500–$8,500 for new OEM assemblies, with used (salvage) units often $700–$2,500 before installation. These figures vary by vehicle, transmission type, labor rates, and whether you choose rebuild, remanufactured, used, or new.

What “transmission cost” really includes

When shops quote a transmission job, they’re usually bundling several line items beyond the gearbox itself. Understanding those elements helps explain wide price ranges across regions and vehicle types.

• Parts: Transmission assembly (new, remanufactured, rebuilt, or used), torque converter, and often a new filter, pan gasket, and cooler flush kit.
• Labor: Typically 8–20 billable hours, influenced by drivetrain layout (FWD/RWD/AWD), subframe removal, rust/corrosion, and model-specific complexity.
• Fluids: OEM-specified ATF or CVT fluid can add $60–$250+ depending on capacity and formulation.
• Programming/adaptations: Many 2010+ vehicles require control-module programming or clutch/shift adaptations after installation ($100–$300).
• Core charge: Remanufactured units often carry a refundable core charge ($400–$1,500) until your old unit is returned.
• Ancillary parts: Mounts, lines, sensors, flexplate fasteners, and seals may be replaced if worn or contaminated.
• Diagnostics and towing: Initial evaluation ($100–$200) and local towing ($100–$300) may apply if the car is not drivable.

As a result, “installed” totals tend to run several thousand dollars above the part-only price, especially where labor rates and required programming are higher.

Price ranges by replacement option

Your choice of repair path drives cost, turnaround time, and warranty. Here’s how the main options compare in 2025.

• Remanufactured unit: $1,800–$6,000 parts; typically $3,500–$9,500 installed on mainstream vehicles. Factory-spec rebuilds with updated components and a strong warranty (often 3 years/100,000 miles).
• Rebuild of your unit (in-vehicle or bench): $2,500–$5,500 installed for common models; more for complex or damaged cores. Warranty length varies by shop (often 12–36 months).
• New OEM assembly: $3,500–$8,500 parts; $5,500–$12,000+ installed. Common on newer vehicles or when reman supply is constrained. Strong OEM warranty, highest cost.
• Used/salvage transmission: $700–$2,500 parts; $2,500–$6,000 installed. Short warranties (30–90 days typical). Best for budget repairs on older vehicles with acceptable risk.
• Valve body/solenoid repair: $400–$1,500 parts; $800–$2,500 total. Viable when shifting issues stem from control hydraulics or electronics rather than internal wear.
• CVT replacements: $2,500–$5,000 parts; $4,500–$8,500 installed. Fluid and programming specs are brand-specific and add cost.
• Dual-clutch (DCT) units: $3,000–$7,000 parts; $5,500–$12,000 installed. Clutch packs and mechatronics can add significantly.
• Hybrid eCVT/transaxles: $4,000–$8,000 parts; $6,500–$12,000 installed due to integrated electric motors and safety procedures.
• Heavy-duty/diesel trucks: $4,000–$6,500 parts; $6,500–$12,000 installed, driven by higher torque ratings and cooling requirements.

For many owners, a warrantied remanufactured unit offers the best balance of cost, quality, and turnaround, while rebuilds can be cost-effective when a reputable specialist is available.

Installed cost examples by vehicle category

These representative installed totals (parts, labor, fluids, programming) reflect typical U.S. shop rates in 2025; local quotes will vary.

• Mainstream FWD sedan (e.g., 2015–2020 Toyota Camry): $4,200–$6,300 with a remanufactured unit.
• Mainstream CVT compact (e.g., 2013–2019 Honda/ Nissan CVT): $4,000–$6,800 depending on unit source and programming.
• Half-ton pickup (e.g., 2015–2020 Ford F-150 6/10-speed): $4,500–$7,500 installed.
• Subaru CVT (e.g., 2014–2018 Outback): $4,500–$7,500 installed; AWD adds labor time.
• Jeep/Chrysler 8–9 speed: $5,000–$8,500 installed due to complexity and programming.
• BMW/Mercedes/Audi 8–9 speed (automatic): $7,000–$12,000 installed; programming and parts pricing push costs higher.
• Audi/BMW DCT or S‑tronic: $8,000–$13,500 installed when mechatronics/clutch packs are included.
• Hybrid transaxle (e.g., Toyota/Lexus): $6,000–$9,500 installed due to integrated motor-generators.

Luxury, AWD, and performance applications trend to the top of the ranges because of parts pricing, packaging, and post-install calibrations.

Labor and time: what shops charge

Labor rates in 2025 typically run $110–$190 per hour at independent shops and can exceed $200 at dealerships in major metros. Removal and replacement times vary widely.

• RWD sedan/SUV: 6–12 hours.
• FWD transaxle: 8–14 hours (subframe drops common).
• AWD/crossovers: 12–20 hours due to additional driveline components.
• Rust, seized fasteners, and additional component replacement can add hours.

Because labor is such a large portion, the same transmission can cost thousands more in high-wage urban markets than in smaller towns.

Key factors that drive the price

Beyond simple parts-versus-labor, several variables swing transmission costs up or down.

• Vehicle make/model and year: Parts availability and engineering complexity differ significantly.
• Transmission type: Conventional automatic, CVT, DCT, and hybrid eCVT carry different parts and service demands.
• 2WD vs. AWD/4WD: Additional labor and parts for AWD systems.
• Extent of damage: Burned clutches, metal contamination, and pump damage raise rebuild time and parts count.
• Parts path: New OEM, reman, rebuild, or used significantly affects price and warranty.
• Programming needs: Modern TCM/PCM coding and adaptations are often required.
• Regional labor rates: Coastal metros and dealer service departments generally cost more.

Shops typically confirm internal condition and compatibility before recommending a repair path, especially when considering used units.

Repair versus replace: how to decide

Whether to rebuild your transmission or swap in a reman/new unit comes down to cost, downtime, and warranty preferences.

• Rebuild advantages: Potentially cheaper on common units; tailored repairs; keeps your original case and coding.
• Rebuild drawbacks: Outcome depends on shop expertise; variable warranty; longer downtime if parts are backordered.
• Reman/new advantages: Consistent quality control, updates applied, robust warranties (often 3yr/100k for remans).
• Reman/new drawbacks: Higher parts cost; core logistics; programming still required.

For daily drivers, a warrantied remanufactured unit is the most common choice; enthusiasts or rare models may favor a specialist rebuild.

Typical smaller fixes and their costs

Not every shifting issue demands a full replacement. Some faults are external or electronic and cost far less.

• ATF service (drain/fill, filter, pan): $150–$400; CVT or Euro fluids can reach $250–$600.
• Solenoid pack or TCM: $300–$900 total depending on access and programming.
• Valve body replacement or reconditioning: $800–$2,500 total.
• Cooler line or seal leaks: $150–$600 depending on location.
• Mounts and ancillary hardware: $150–$500 when done concurrently.

Shops generally perform a scan, pressure tests, and a fluid inspection before recommending major work to rule out these less expensive remedies.

How to get an accurate estimate

To dial in a reliable price, you’ll need to pin down part sourcing, labor time, and programming needs for your specific VIN.

1. Get a full diagnostic with scan data and fluid inspection to confirm internal failure.
2. Ask for line-item quotes for rebuild, reman, new OEM, and used options with warranty terms.
3. Request labor hours, fluid quantity/type, programming fees, and core charges in writing.
4. Verify whether the torque converter and cooler flush are included (they should be).
5. Compare at least two reputable shops; check remanufacturer and shop warranty specifics (years/mileage, labor coverage, nationwide support).

Clear, apples-to-apples quotes help you weigh cost versus warranty and minimize surprise add-ons once the job is underway.

Regional and market realities in 2025

Parts supply remains generally stable, but specialty units (certain DCTs, hybrid transaxles, or late-model 8–10 speeds) can face intermittent backorders. Labor rates continue to trend higher in large metros, and winter corrosion belts see added labor for seized hardware. Expect quotes on the high side in West Coast, Northeast, and major Texas/Florida cities, with lower totals from rural independents.

Insurance, warranties, and payment options

Powertrain failures outside factory coverage are usually out-of-pocket, unless you carry a service contract that specifically covers transmissions. Remanufactured units commonly include multi-year nationwide warranties; used units rarely do. Some brands have extended coverage on specific CVTs or known-issue transmissions by model year, but eligibility is VIN- and program-specific. Many shops now offer financing or payment plans for high-ticket drivetrain repairs.

Summary

In 2025, a complete automatic transmission job typically lands between $3,500 and $9,500 installed for mainstream vehicles, with luxury, AWD, CVT, DCT, and hybrid systems often $8,000–$18,000. Choosing between rebuild, reman, new, or used dictates price and warranty, while labor rates, programming, and vehicle complexity influence the final bill. A thorough diagnostic and written, itemized quotes from reputable shops are the fastest route to the right fix at the right price for your car and location.

Is it worth replacing an auto transmission?

Replacing a vehicle’s transmission can provide enhanced performance, increased longevity, and improved fuel efficiency. However, it’s important to weigh these advantages against factors such as the age of the vehicle and the condition of other systems.

Is it cheaper to fix a transmission or replace it?

Fixing a transmission is generally cheaper than replacing it, with minor repairs costing hundreds and rebuilds costing significantly less than a complete replacement, which can be thousands. However, the most cost-effective choice depends on the extent of the damage; significant internal issues may make replacement the more reliable, albeit expensive, long-term solution. For a definitive answer, get a professional diagnostic from a trusted mechanic. 
Transmission Repair

• Cost: Minor repairs can range from under $300 to $1,500 for parts like solenoids or fixing leaks. 
• When it’s cheaper: This is the best option if only a few parts are needed to get the transmission back to working order. 
• Pros: Less expensive upfront than replacement. 
• Cons: If the damage is extensive, repair may not be feasible. 

Transmission Rebuild

• Cost: Rebuilding a transmission typically costs around $2,000 to $3,500 and is about half the price of a full replacement, according to Synchrony. 
• When it’s a good option: When the existing transmission has worn or damaged internal parts, but the core unit is still sound. 
• Pros: All worn-out parts are replaced with new ones, extending the transmission’s lifespan and offering peace of mind. 
• Cons: It involves more labor than a simple repair and takes longer than a full replacement. 

Transmission Replacement

• Cost: This is usually the most expensive option, with costs ranging from $2,000 to $4,500 or more, not including labor. 
• When it’s the best option: For severe internal damage or in older vehicles, especially if the cost of repair or rebuild is high. 
• Pros: Provides a brand-new, or like-new, transmission that is designed to last, according to Christian Brothers Automotive. 
• Cons: The highest upfront cost among the repair options. 

How to Decide

1. Get a Professional Diagnostic: This is the most important step to understand the specific problem. 
2. Compare Quotes: Get estimates for different solutions (repair, rebuild, and replace) from a few different repair shops. 
3. Consider the Vehicle’s Value: If the repair costs are very high, it might be more economical to replace the vehicle. 

What are signs of a bad transmission?

Signs of a failing transmission include a burning smell or leaking fluid, unusual noises like grinding or whining, difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears that cause high engine revs, and dashboard warning lights. You might also notice jerky or rough shifts, delays in engaging gears, or your car shuddering or vibrating while changing gears.
 
Audible Signs

• Grinding or Clunking: A failing transmission often makes metallic noises like grinding, clunking, or buzzing, especially when shifting gears. 
• Whining or Humming: A consistent whining or humming sound could indicate a problem with the transmission, particularly in an automatic system. 

Visual and Tactile Signs

• Burning Smell: A burning odor, often from burning transmission fluid, is a red flag that the transmission is overheating. 
• Leaking Fluid: Reddish or brownish fluid on your driveway is a clear sign of a transmission fluid leak. 
• Slipping Gears: You might feel the engine revving high without the car accelerating as it should, or the vehicle could feel like it’s “slipping” into different gears unexpectedly. 
• Shifting Problems: The transmission may hesitate to shift into gear, or gears may shift roughly, with lurching or jerking motions. 
• Vehicle Vibrating or Shaking: Shaking or vibration during gear changes can be a sign of a serious transmission issue. 

Other Warning Signs

• Check Engine Light: Your car’s onboard diagnostics will often turn on the “Check Engine” light to signal a transmission problem. 
• Delayed Engagement: A significant delay when you shift from “Park” to “Drive” or “Reverse” suggests a transmission issue. 

If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic immediately to prevent further damage.

What is the average cost to replace a transmission in a car?

Average Cost of Transmission Replacement
As a general estimate, the replacement cost for a mainstream car with an automatic transmission can range from $2,500 to $5,000, including parts and labor. Manual transmission replacements may cost slightly less, ranging from $1,500 to $3,000.