How much does it cost to replace a gearbox in a car?

In 2025, replacing a car’s gearbox (transmission) typically costs $2,500–$6,000 for a manual, $3,500–$8,500 for a conventional automatic, $3,500–$9,000 for a CVT, and $4,500–$12,000 for a dual‑clutch—though luxury and performance models can exceed $10,000–$15,000. Final price depends on transmission type, whether you choose a used, rebuilt, or remanufactured unit, labor rates in your area, and any related parts or programming required.

What determines the price

Several variables drive the total bill: the transmission type, whether the unit is new/remanufactured/rebuilt/used, labor hours and shop rates, drivetrain layout (FWD, RWD, AWD/4×4), and “while-you’re-in-there” parts like a clutch or mounts. Understanding these inputs helps you compare quotes fairly.

Typical 2025 price ranges by transmission type

The following list outlines broad, real-world price bands for U.S. customers in 2025, combining parts and labor. Prices in Canada, the UK, and EU vary with VAT, parts availability, and labor rates but follow similar patterns.

• Manual (5/6-speed): $2,500–$6,000 total; new OEM units can push $3,000–$7,000 for parts alone. Adding a clutch and flywheel can add $800–$2,500.
• Conventional automatic (6–10-speed): $3,500–$8,500 with a remanufactured unit; dealer-installed new OEM can reach $8,000–$12,000 on some vehicles.
• CVT (continuously variable): $3,500–$9,000; common models often fall $4,000–$7,500, but late-model units can top $8,000–$9,000.
• Dual-clutch (DCT): $4,500–$12,000; mechatronics and programming can push high-end or performance models to $10,000–$15,000+.
• Luxury/performance (e.g., high-end German, sports cars): $8,000–$15,000+ is not unusual, depending on parts availability and dealer-only components.

These bands reflect a typical install with required fluids and programming; quotes trend higher at dealerships, in high-cost metro areas, or when additional parts prove necessary.

Parts vs. labor: what you’re paying for

Understanding how the bill breaks down helps you spot a fair quote and anticipate add-ons that can change the total.

• Parts:
  

  • Used (salvage) gearbox: $700–$2,500; usually 30–90-day warranty; condition unknown.
  • Rebuilt (your unit repaired): $2,500–$6,500 for most automatics; $1,800–$4,000 for manuals, depending on damage.
  • Remanufactured (factory-level rebuild): $2,800–$6,500+ for common automatics/CVTs; often 2–3 year or mileage-limited warranties.
  • New OEM: $4,500–$10,000+ depending on model; often dealer-sourced only.

• Labor:
  

  • Hours: ~5–10 hours (FWD), 8–15 hours (RWD/AWD), and up to 20+ on complex 4x4s or tight engine bays.
  • Rates: ~$100–$175/hour independent shops; ~$150–$250/hour dealerships; some metros reach $300/hour.

• Related items:
  

  • Fluids, filters, seals: $100–$400.
  • Programming/coding and relearn procedures: $100–$300; crucial for modern vehicles.
  • Torque converter (if separate): $300–$800.
  • Cooler flush or replacement: $100–$400 (recommended after failures to avoid contamination).

Because labor and ancillary items add up, two quotes using the same transmission type can still differ by hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Manual-specific add-ons

Manual gearbox replacements often coincide with clutch service, which can materially change your total outlay.

• Clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, release bearing): $300–$900 parts; labor overlaps with gearbox removal.
• Dual-mass flywheel (if equipped): $600–$1,600 parts.
• Hydraulics (slave/master cylinder, lines): $150–$400 parts.
• Rear main seal (engine): $50–$150 parts; inexpensive to do now, costly later.

Addressing these items during gearbox replacement prevents repeat labor and is often recommended if mileage is high or parts show wear.

Replace vs. rebuild vs. used: choosing the right path

Different strategies carry different risks, warranties, and timelines. Here’s how they typically compare for mainstream vehicles.

• Used (salvage yard): Lowest upfront cost; quickest if in stock; shorter warranties; unknown history. Best for budget repairs on older vehicles with limited remaining value.
• Rebuilt (your unit): Tailored to your failure; quality depends on rebuilder; moderate cost; turnaround varies with parts availability.
• Remanufactured: Most predictable quality and warranty; often plug-and-play; higher cost but strong value for daily drivers you plan to keep.
• New OEM: Most expensive; usually reserved for late-model, under-warranty, or specialty/luxury applications.

For many owners, a remanufactured unit balances cost, warranty coverage, and reliability, while used units suit low-value vehicles and new OEM suits premium or very new models.

How long the job takes

Time matters for rental costs and planning. Most replacements take 1–3 days once parts are on hand, but complex AWD/4×4 layouts or dealer-only programming can extend timelines.

• Simple FWD manual/automatic: 1–2 days.
• RWD or AWD crossovers/trucks: 2–3 days.
• Performance/luxury with coding and special tools: 3–5 days.

Shop scheduling, parts shipping, and post-install test drives can add a day or two even on straightforward jobs.

Regional notes and currency considerations

Outside the United States, figure similar relative differences by transmission type but adjust for taxes and labor rates. As broad guidance in 2025: UK manual replacements often run £1,200–£3,000, autos £2,500–£7,000+, CVTs £3,000–£6,500+, with dealer quotes and luxury marques higher. In Canada and the EU, VAT and parts import timelines can add noticeable cost.

Ways to save without cutting corners

You can often shave meaningful cost by being strategic about parts choices, timing, and where you book the work.

• Get 2–3 written quotes that itemize parts, labor hours, fluids, programming, and warranty.
• Ask for a remanufactured option with a nationwide warranty (often 2–3 years).
• Bundle “while-you’re-in-there” parts (clutch kit, mounts, seals) to avoid duplicate labor later.
• Confirm cooler flush and proper fluid spec; incorrect fluid risks early failure.
• Use reputable independent specialists; they’re often hundreds to thousands cheaper than dealers.
• Consider a quality used unit only if vehicle value is low and risk is acceptable; verify mileage and warranty.

These steps typically close the gap between high and low quotes and reduce the odds of repeat repairs.

Questions to ask a shop before approving work

Clear questions help ensure you’re comparing like for like and that the shop stands behind the repair.

1. Is the replacement unit used, rebuilt, remanufactured, or new OEM? Who supplies it?
2. What is the warranty term and coverage (parts, labor, nationwide)? Any exclusions?
3. How many labor hours are quoted, and what’s your hourly rate?
4. Are fluids, programming/coding, and cooler service included?
5. For manuals: does the quote include clutch/flywheel inspection or replacement options?
6. Will there be core charges, and when are they refunded?
7. What diagnostics confirmed the gearbox is the root cause (not mounts, sensors, TCM, or fluid issues)?

Documented answers reduce surprise add-ons and help you choose the best value rather than the lowest headline price.

Bottom line

Expect $2,500–$6,000 for a manual gearbox replacement and $3,500–$9,000 for most automatics/CVTs in 2025, with dual‑clutch and luxury applications rising to five figures. The smartest path—used, rebuilt, remanufactured, or new—depends on your vehicle’s age, value, and how long you plan to keep it.

Summary

Replacing a car’s gearbox in 2025 generally costs $2,500–$6,000 (manual), $3,500–$8,500 (automatic), $3,500–$9,000 (CVT), and $4,500–$12,000 (DCT), with luxury/performance models higher. Prices hinge on transmission type, parts choice (used/rebuilt/reman/new), labor time and rates, and related items like fluids, programming, and clutches. Gather itemized quotes, compare warranties, and consider remanufactured units for the best balance of cost and reliability.