How much does it cost to replace an automatic gearbox?

In most cases, replacing an automatic gearbox (transmission) costs $3,000–$7,500 in the United States, £2,200–£6,500 in the UK, €2,500–€8,000 in the EU, and AU$4,500–AU$12,000 in Australia, with luxury and heavy-duty vehicles often exceeding those ranges. Prices vary widely based on vehicle make, gearbox type (torque-converter, CVT, dual-clutch), whether the unit is new, remanufactured, or used, and local labor rates. Below is a detailed breakdown of what drives the price, typical ranges by vehicle and transmission type, and ways to save without compromising reliability.

What drives the price of an automatic gearbox replacement

Replacing a transmission is one of the most complex and time-intensive automotive repairs. Costs reflect the price of the unit itself, labor to remove and refit, fluids and hardware, and often software programming and calibration. The following factors most strongly influence the final bill.

• Vehicle make/model: Luxury, performance, and less common models cost more due to parts availability and complexity.
• Transmission type: CVT and dual-clutch (DCT/DSG) gearboxes often cost more than conventional torque-converter automatics.
• Unit source: New OEM units cost the most; remanufactured are mid-range; used (salvage) are cheapest but riskiest.
• Labor time and rates: Typical U.S. labor rates run about $90–$160/hour at independents and $120–$220/hour at dealerships; 6–16 labor hours is common depending on drivetrain (FWD/AWD/4×4) and packaging.
• Software and coding: Many late-model vehicles require programming, adaptations, and sometimes online coding.
• Ancillary parts: Mounts, coolers, lines, torque converter, mechatronics/valve body, and fluids can add substantially.
• Core charges and shipping: Reman units often carry refundable core deposits; freight can be significant for heavy assemblies.

Taken together, these variables can widen the range by several thousand dollars between seemingly similar jobs. Getting line-item quotes helps pinpoint where the money is going.

Typical price ranges by vehicle and transmission type

While every quote is vehicle-specific, these brackets reflect current market pricing (parts and labor) observed across major markets in 2024–2025.

• Economy FWD sedans and crossovers (conventional automatics): $2,500–$5,000 (UK: £2,000–£4,000; EU: €2,300–€5,500; AU: AU$4,000–AU$8,000)
• CVT-equipped vehicles (many Nissan, Subaru, Toyota models): $3,000–$6,500 (UK: £2,500–£5,200; EU: €2,800–€6,500; AU: AU$5,000–AU$9,500)
• Dual-clutch/DSG (VW/Audi, BMW, Mercedes, some Ford/Hyundai/Kia): $4,000–$9,000 (UK: £3,200–£7,000; EU: €3,800–€8,500; AU: AU$6,500–AU$12,000)
• Modern 8–10 speed automatics (ZF, Aisin, GM, Ford): $3,500–$8,500 (UK: £2,800–£6,800; EU: €3,200–€8,000; AU: AU$5,500–AU$12,000)
• Trucks/SUVs, AWD/4×4: $4,500–$9,000+ (UK: £3,500–£7,500; EU: €4,000–€9,000; AU: AU$7,000–AU$13,000)
• Luxury/performance (BMW, Mercedes-AMG, Audi S/RS, Porsche): $6,000–$15,000+ (UK: £4,500–£12,000+; EU: €5,500–€14,000+; AU: AU$9,000–AU$20,000+)

Vehicles using widely available transmissions (e.g., certain GM, Ford, Toyota units) tend to be cheaper and faster to source, while niche or high-performance gearboxes carry longer lead times and higher costs.

Parts choices: new vs. remanufactured vs. used

Where your replacement gearbox comes from can make or break the economics and reliability of the job. Here’s how the main options compare.

• New OEM transmission: Typically the most expensive; often $3,500–$8,000+ for the unit alone. Best for new or high-value vehicles; usually 2–3 year warranty through manufacturer.
• Remanufactured (factory or reputable reman): Commonly $2,000–$5,500 for mainstream units, plus core charge. Balanced cost and reliability; warranties often 3 years/unlimited miles in the U.S. from top remanufacturers.
• Used/salvage: $800–$2,500 for the unit, frequently with 30–180 day limited warranty. Lower upfront cost but higher risk; condition depends on donor mileage and service history.
• Rebuild in-house: Cost varies widely ($2,500–$6,500+). Feasible when a skilled transmission specialist is available and parts are accessible; warranty depends on shop.

If you plan to keep the vehicle for years, a reman or new unit often delivers the best long-term value. If you’re selling soon, a used unit with documentation may suffice, but it carries more uncertainty.

Line-item cost breakdown

A comprehensive quote should separate parts, labor, and incidentals. Expect items like these on a professional invoice.

• Transmission assembly (new/reman/used): $800–$8,000+
• Torque converter (if separate): $250–$700
• Mechatronic/valve body (DCT/DSG, some automatics): $800–$3,000 (if replaced)
• Labor (remove/replace): 6–16 hours x local rate
• ATF/CVT fluid and filters: $120–$400 (10–14 quarts is common; specialty fluids cost more)
• Seals, gaskets, mounts, hardware: $50–$300
• Programming/coding/adaptations: $100–$300 (some brands require dealer-level tools)
• Cooler flush or replacement: $80–$400 (many warranties require cooler service)
• Core deposit (reman units): $300–$1,500 (refunded when old unit is returned in acceptable condition)
• Freight and taxes: varies by region and supplier

Not every job includes every line, but coding, proper fluids, and cooler service are common—and skipping them can void warranties or cause early failures.

When a full replacement isn’t necessary

Not all transmission problems require a complete swap. Certain symptoms point to repairs that can save thousands if caught early.

• Shift flare, harsh shifts, or limp mode: Sometimes resolved with valve body/mechatronic repair, software updates, or solenoid replacement.
• Leaks or slipping at low mileage: Could be seals, pan gasket, or fluid service issue rather than internal damage.
• Specific gear loss or codes: TCM faults, wiring harness issues, or clutch pack problems may be repairable without full replacement.
• Overheating complaints: A clogged or failing cooler can cause symptoms that mimic internal failure.

A thorough diagnostic—scan for codes, check fluid level and condition, road test, and, if needed, pressure tests—can distinguish a repairable fault from a terminal failure.

Timeframe: how long a replacement takes

From authorization to delivery, timing varies with parts availability and shop scheduling. The mechanical swap is typically one to two days of shop time, with longer durations for shipping and programming on certain models.

• Mechanical removal/installation: 1–2 days for most FWD vehicles; 2–3 days for trucks/SUVs and AWD/4×4
• Programming/learn procedures: 1–3 hours, sometimes requiring a dealer session
• Lead time for parts: Same day to 2 weeks; longer for rare/luxury units

Ask the shop for a realistic schedule that includes shipping buffers and any required post-install road testing and adaptations.

How to get a fair price and protect the repair

A few practical steps can keep costs controlled and improve the odds of a durable outcome.

• Get 2–3 written quotes that itemize parts source (new/reman/used), warranty terms, and required coding/adaptation.
• Verify the warranty: duration, mileage, labor coverage, and whether cooler replacement/flush is required.
• Confirm fluid spec: Using the exact OEM-spec ATF/CVT fluid is critical to longevity and warranty validity.
• Check for TSBs and software updates: Some drivability issues are software-related and cheaper to fix.
• Ask about core charges and return deadlines to ensure you receive your refund promptly.
• Choose shops with transmission specialization, especially for CVT and DCT/DSG units.

Clear documentation and the right parts source often matter more than chasing the lowest quote, particularly for complex or high-value vehicles.

Insurance, warranties, and financing considerations

Depending on the vehicle’s age and coverage, some or all of the cost may be offset by third parties.

• Powertrain warranties: Many automakers cover transmissions to 5 years/60,000 miles in the U.S.; check your terms and service records.
• Extended service contracts: Coverage varies; approvals often require diagnostic tear-downs and maintenance proof.
• Comprehensive insurance: Typically does not cover mechanical failure; flood or collision damage may be covered.
• Financing: Many shops and reman suppliers offer financing; weigh interest costs against vehicle value.

Before authorizing work, contact your warranty provider with the VIN, mileage, and diagnostic report to confirm eligibility and procedures.

Signs your automatic gearbox may be failing

Early detection may allow a repair instead of a full replacement. Watch for these symptoms.

• Delayed engagement when shifting into Drive/Reverse
• Slipping, sudden RPM spikes, or loss of power
• Harsh or erratic shifts, “flare” between gears
• Warning lights, limp mode, or transmission overheat messages
• Unusual noises (whine, grind) or vibrations under load
• Burnt-smelling or dark fluid, visible leaks

If you notice one or more of these, a prompt scan and fluid inspection can limit collateral damage and costs.

Bottom line

Expect $3,000–$7,500 in the U.S. for a typical automatic gearbox replacement, with costs higher for CVT/DCT, luxury, and trucks. Remanufactured units strike a balance of price and warranty, but a thorough diagnostic may reveal a cheaper repair path. Itemized quotes, correct fluids, and verified warranty terms are the keys to a successful, durable fix.

Summary

Replacing an automatic gearbox generally ranges from mid four figures to well over five figures for high-end models, driven by unit type, parts source, and labor complexity. New OEM units are most expensive, remanufactured offers strong value and warranty, and used units are budget options with risk. With careful diagnosis, transparent quotes, and proper fluids and programming, you can control costs and maximize reliability.

How much does it cost to replace an auto gearbox?

If you’re in need of a gearbox replacement, it could set you back anywhere between $3000-$12000+ depending on your car.

Is it worth fixing an automatic gearbox?

Repairs depend on the specific issue and time available, and most garages won’t fix internal gearbox problems. Specialists can handle these repairs, but it takes time and leaves your car undrivable. For rare or performance cars, repairing may be more cost-effective than replacing the entire gearbox.

How much does it cost to replace a transmission gearbox?

A transmission gearbox replacement for a mainstream automatic car typically costs $2,500 to $7,500, while manual transmissions can range from $1,500 to $3,000, with these prices including parts and labor. The final cost depends heavily on the vehicle’s make and model (high-end cars are more expensive), whether it’s an automatic or manual transmission (automatics are more complex and costly), the transmission’s age and speed count, and whether a new, used, or rebuilt unit is used.
 
Factors Influencing Cost

• Vehicle Make and Model: The make and model of your car significantly impact the price, with transmissions for high-end or luxury vehicles being more expensive. 
• Manual vs. Automatic: Automatic transmissions are more complex, have more parts, and are more expensive to replace than simpler manual transmissions. 
• Type of Transmission: A transmission with more gears (e.g., an 8- or 10-speed automatic) is more complex and therefore more expensive to replace than an older, simpler four-speed transmission. 
• Replacement Transmission Type: You can choose from several options, each with different costs:
  • New/Remanufactured: A new or factory-rebuilt transmission is the most reliable but also the most expensive. 
  • Rebuilt: A local shop rebuilds your existing transmission, which is often more affordable than a brand-new unit. 
  • Used/Salvage: The least expensive option, but the transmission’s lifespan and reliability are less certain. 
• Labor Costs: The labor required to replace a transmission is a significant portion of the total cost and varies based on the shop’s location and the complexity of the job. 

Tips for Getting a Replacement

• Get Multiple Quotes: Because transmission replacement is a major and expensive repair, it’s essential to shop around and get quotes from several reputable mechanics and transmission specialists. 
• Know Your Vehicle: Research your car’s specific transmission to understand its complexity and typical costs. 
• Consider a Rebuild: For certain issues, a transmission rebuild can be a more economical choice than a full replacement. 

How much does it cost to change an automatic gearbox?

Average gearbox replacement costs

Vehicle type	Estimated cost range (including labour)
Small cars	£800 – £1,500
Sedans	£1,000 – £2,000
SUVs	£1,500 – £3,000
Vans	£2,000 – £4,000