Do You Need to Replace Your Transmission?

At Ralph’s Transmission, we tend to view a full transmission replacement as a last-resort solution. We want to explore all other repair options before recommending replacing the transmission completely. However, it may be your best and only solution when the transmission damage is beyond repair. The type of transmission in your vehicle can also make a difference. In this article, we will talk about the situations where a transmission replacement is recommended and how the process works.

Determining the Source of Transmission Failure

There are many signs of transmission problems. Your vehicle may not be shifting smoothly or it may not get into certain gears at all. In this case, it’s a good idea to get your transmission inspected by a local transmission expert who can determine the source of the issue and the extent of any damage. The best-case scenario is you may just be overdue for a standard transmission service, which includes replacing the transmission fluid and filter. Or, there may be a worn part or other repairable damage that requires a targeted repair solution. These will be the first options we consider.

Major Transmission Damage

Then, there are other situations where the internal transmission damage is more significant. Multiple components may be damaged or on the verge of failure. This is when a full custom transmission rebuild will be your best solution. This is a very thorough procedure that involves dismantling the entire transmission. Parts that are still in good shape will be cleaned and reinstalled. Any damaged or worn components will be replaced as the transmission is completely rebuilt from the ground up. Transmission rebuilds are a specialty service we provide at Ralph’s Transmission—backed by our industry-leading 3 Year, 100,000 Mile Warranty.

Transmission Replacement

Sometimes, the transmission damage is so significant that it is beyond repair. It cannot effectively be rebuilt, so a transmission replacement will be necessary. In this situation, you may have options depending on your budget. You can purchase a new transmission from the auto manufacturer. This will be the most expensive option, but also the most reliable since you’ll have a brand new transmission in your vehicle. A used transmission could be tracked down that is still in good working order. This is a more economical solution, but can be a little risky because the transmission will obviously have some wear and tear. Lastly, there are rebuilt and refurbished transmissions that can be purchased and installed, which will provide more peace of mind because some warranty will generally be attached to the unit.

We should also mention that there are some more advanced transmission systems that cannot be rebuilt cost-effectively. We’re primarily talking about modern continuously variable transmissions (CVTs). These typically will need to be replaced with new units because that is usually less expensive and complicated than trying to rebuild them.

Your Central Valley Transmission Specialist

If you are experiencing transmission trouble in the Central Valley, you can bring your vehicle into Ralph’s Transmission in Modesto for a free initial inspection. We’ll get to the bottom of the issue and let you know our recommended repair solutions—whether it’s routine transmission maintenance, a simple repair, parts replacement, transmission rebuild or transmission replacement.

Call Ralph’s Transmission today at 209.526.1909 or schedule your service appointment online.

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