How Much It Costs to Replace a 2017 Honda Civic Transmission
Expect to pay roughly $3,800–$6,500 at an independent shop (about $5,500–$8,000 at a Honda dealer) to replace the common CVT in a 2017 Honda Civic. For models with a 6‑speed manual, a full gearbox replacement typically runs $1,800–$3,800, though many problems are fixed with a clutch replacement for $1,100–$1,900. Prices vary by region, parts source (new, remanufactured, or used), and whether additional components are replaced.
Contents
- What drives the price for a 2017 Civic transmission replacement
- Typical cost ranges by configuration
- Sample parts-and-labor breakdown
- Replace vs. rebuild vs. used: what’s realistic for a 2017 Civic
- Manual vs. CVT: when a full replacement is necessary
- Timeframe and logistics
- Warranty, recalls, and goodwill assistance
- How to lower the bill without compromising reliability
- Bottom line
- Summary
What drives the price for a 2017 Civic transmission replacement
The 2017 Civic came with two main transmission types: a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in most trims and a 6‑speed manual in performance and some base models. CVTs are most often replaced as complete units, while manual cars more commonly need clutches rather than full transmissions. Labor time, fluid and programming needs, and the choice of new vs. remanufactured vs. used units strongly influence the final bill.
Typical cost ranges by configuration
The following list outlines realistic, nationwide 2025 price ranges owners are seeing for parts and labor, inclusive of fluids, programming, and typical incidentals.
- CVT (most 2017 Civic trims):
– Independent shop with remanufactured unit: $3,800–$6,500 total
– Honda dealer with new/reman OEM: $5,500–$8,000 total
- 6‑speed manual (non–Type R):
– Full transmission replacement (used or reman): $1,800–$3,800
– Clutch kit replacement (common fix): $1,100–$1,900
- Type R (6‑speed manual, higher-spec components):
– Transmission replacement: $4,000–$6,500+
These ranges assume 8–12 hours of labor for a CVT and 6–9 for a manual, plus supplies. High-cost metros, dealer-only parts policies, or extensive ancillary work can push totals to the upper end.
Sample parts-and-labor breakdown
Here’s how a typical invoice might shake out for a CVT swap at an independent shop using a remanufactured unit with a nationwide warranty.
- Remanufactured CVT assembly: $2,600–$3,800
- Labor (8–12 hours at $120–$180/hr): $1,000–$2,200
- Honda HCF‑2 CVT fluid (6–8 quarts) and supplies: $120–$250
- Programming/initialization and road-learn procedures: $80–$200
- Ancillaries (mounts, axle seals, cooler line service, fasteners): $100–$400
- Taxes, shop fees, and potential core charges: $150–$400
Dealer quotes trend higher due to OEM-only parts pricing, higher labor rates, and fixed procedures that add time and materials. Independent shops can often save 15–30% with quality reman units.
Replace vs. rebuild vs. used: what’s realistic for a 2017 Civic
Choosing among a new OEM unit, a remanufactured transmission, or a used take-out depends on budget, availability, and risk tolerance, especially for CVTs.
- New OEM: Highest cost; best fitment and dealer-backed warranty; typically used by dealers.
- Remanufactured: Strong value; updated internals; common 3yr/100k-mile parts-and-labor warranties from reputable suppliers.
- Used (salvage): Lowest upfront; verify mileage and donor year compatibility; warranty is shorter (often 3–12 months) and labor coverage is rare.
Most independent shops prefer remanufactured CVTs over in-house rebuilds due to specialized tooling and parts sourcing; manual transmissions are more commonly rebuilt or replaced with used units.
Manual vs. CVT: when a full replacement is necessary
Not every drivability issue requires a new transmission. Here’s what typically dictates replacement versus repair.
- CVT: Severe belt/pulley wear, bearing failure, metal contamination, or repeated shudder after fluid service often means replacement. Minor software or solenoid issues may be fixed without a swap.
- Manual: Most slipping, chatter, or engagement issues are clutch-related and resolved with a clutch kit (and often flywheel) rather than replacing the gearbox.
A thorough diagnosis—scan for codes, road test, fluid inspection—can prevent unnecessary transmission replacement, especially on manual cars.
Timeframe and logistics
Plan for 1–2 business days for most CVT replacements and 1 day for clutch jobs, assuming parts are on hand. Add time for dealer programming queues, parts shipping, or if additional components (mounts, seals, cooler) need replacement.
Warranty, recalls, and goodwill assistance
Honda has issued software updates for certain CVT concerns on mid‑2010s Civics, but as of 2025 there isn’t a broad CVT replacement recall specific to 2017 models. Still, it’s worth checking with a Honda dealer for outstanding service bulletins or goodwill assistance, especially for low-mileage, well-maintained vehicles.
How to lower the bill without compromising reliability
The following steps can help you manage cost while maintaining quality and coverage.
- Get 2–3 written quotes comparing dealer OEM and reputable reman units with nationwide warranties.
- Confirm the warranty is parts-and-labor and transferable, and ask about labor coverage for warranty claims.
- Replace wear items while accessible: mounts, axle seals, and (manuals) clutch hydraulics or flywheel if needed.
- Verify proper fluid (HCF‑2 for CVT) and required software initialization procedures are included.
- Consider used units only with documented mileage and a clear return policy; factor in risk of shorter coverage.
A well-documented estimate that includes parts source, warranty terms, fluid spec, and programming steps reduces surprises and protects you if issues arise later.
Signs replacement may be imminent
Owners often report the following symptoms before a final diagnosis confirms replacement.
- CVT: Persistent shudder under light throttle, whining/rumbling that varies with speed, harsh engagement, overheating warnings, or metal-laden fluid.
- Manual: Persistent gear grind despite fresh fluid and linkage checks, bearing howl in multiple gears, or catastrophic internal failure following clutch neglect.
Catching issues early can sometimes keep the fix to software, fluid service, or a clutch replacement rather than a full transmission swap.
Bottom line
Budget $3,800–$6,500 at an independent shop or $5,500–$8,000 at a dealer to replace a 2017 Civic CVT, and $1,800–$3,800 for a non–Type R manual gearbox (with many issues resolved by a $1,100–$1,900 clutch job). Get multiple quotes, confirm warranty and programming are included, and ensure the correct Honda-spec fluid is used.
Summary
Replacing a 2017 Honda Civic transmission typically costs $3,800–$6,500 (independent) or $5,500–$8,000 (dealer) for the CVT, while manual cars usually need far cheaper clutch work at $1,100–$1,900, with full manual gearbox swaps at $1,800–$3,800. Prices depend on parts source, labor rates, and ancillary repairs; a detailed, warrantied estimate from multiple shops is the best way to control cost and ensure reliability.
What is the most common problem with the 2017 Honda Civic?
The largest complaint was about the car’s air-con, with 15.3% of owners in our survey saying they had experienced problems with it. Second to that was non-engine electrics, which attracted 9.7% of complaints.
Is it worth it to replace your transmission?
Replacing a transmission is worth it if the car is relatively new and well-maintained, otherwise the cost may exceed the vehicle’s value. Consider factors like the car’s age and mileage, the extent of internal damage, and the cost of replacement versus the vehicle’s market value to decide if it’s a financially sound investment compared to buying a new vehicle.
Reasons to Replace a Transmission
- Extend Vehicle Life: If your car is otherwise in good condition, a new or rebuilt transmission can keep it running for several more years.
- Improve Fuel Efficiency: A new transmission can restore optimal gear shifting, leading to better gas mileage and long-term savings.
- Severe Internal Damage: If internal components like gears or the torque converter are severely broken, replacement may be the only long-term solution.
- High-Mileage Vehicles: For cars with high mileage, a replacement can be a better investment than rebuilding, which may only offer a temporary fix.
Factors to Consider
- Car’s Age and Mileage: Older, high-mileage vehicles are more likely to develop other issues after a major repair, making replacement less practical.
- Repair vs. Value: If the transmission repair or replacement cost is close to or exceeds the vehicle’s current market value, it may not be financially sensible.
- Reliability: A new or remanufactured transmission often comes with a warranty, offering more peace of mind than a potentially less reliable repair or a used transmission.
- Emotional Value: If the car holds sentimental value or you want to avoid the large payments associated with a new vehicle, a transmission replacement might be a reasonable choice, even if it’s not the best financial decision.
Questions to Ask Yourself
- What is the car’s overall condition beyond the transmission?
- What is the vehicle’s current market value?
- How much will a new transmission cost, including labor and parts?
- Will other components likely need replacement soon?
- How long do you plan to keep the vehicle after the repair?
How much does it cost to replace a transmission in a 2017 Honda Civic?
A 2017 Honda Civic transmission replacement can cost between $1,800 and $8,000, depending on the type of transmission (manual or automatic/CVT), whether it’s new or remanufactured, and labor costs. New parts can range from $1,800 to $3,400, with labor adding another $500 to $1,200, according to Joe Morgan Honda. For a CVT, costs can go up to $8,000.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Factors Affecting Cost:
- Transmission Type: Manual transmissions are generally less expensive to replace than automatic or CVT transmissions.
- New vs. Remanufactured: Remanufactured transmissions can be a more budget-friendly option than brand-new ones, but it’s important to ensure quality and warranty.
- Labor Costs: Labor rates vary by location and shop, but can range from $500 to $1,600.
- Additional Repairs: You might need other related repairs, which can increase the overall cost.
Cost Ranges:
- Manual Transmission: . Opens in new tabExpect to pay between $2,500 and $4,000 for a manual transmission replacement, according to Mister Transmission.
- Automatic/CVT Transmission: . Opens in new tabThe cost can range from $3,000 to $8,000 for a CVT transmission replacement, according to The Lemon Law Experts.
- Remanufactured Transmission: . Opens in new tabA remanufactured transmission can be found for around $3,903, says Reman-Transmission.com.
- Used Transmission: . Opens in new tabUsed transmissions can be found for less, but come with a higher risk of future issues.
Example Costs (From Search Results):
- One mechanic quoted $6,590 for a remanufactured transmission with a 12-month warranty or $5,634 for a remanufactured transmission with a 3-year unlimited mile warranty, according to Reddit user.
- One user on CivicX.com reported paying $1,400 for a used transmission replacement, including labor.
- RepairPal estimates the total cost to be between $5,700 and $6,259.
Recommendations:
- Get multiple quotes from different shops to compare prices.
- Consider a remanufactured transmission for a balance of cost and reliability.
- Be aware of potential additional repair costs and factor them into your budget.
How long does a Honda Civic transmission last?
150,000 miles
Honda Civic’s Transmission and Alternator Life Span
Most car transmission lines wear out at the 100,000-mile mark. However, a Honda Civic’s transmission can last an average of 150,000 miles.