10 Things To Watch For When Buying A Used Transmission

By Author: Pream Madhan
Total Articles: 14
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Finding used transmissions is easy, but locating a quality part needs a little research. Here we provide the most important aspects that give the best chance of locating good quality the used transmissions needed for your vehicle.
1. What condition the used transmission is in?
The foremost step in finding a good used transmission is knowing about its existing condition. If you do not know much about used auto parts or car transmissions, it is better to bring a mechanic along with you while purchasing.
He will look for the aspects needed for a transmission to be in great shape.
2. Quality of transmission fluid
Before deciding to buy the transmission, check for the quality of transmission fluid. Locate the dipstick for the transmission fluid. Usually, the transmission fluid is red in color, if it has changed to brown, it has to be replaced. But in case, if it is blackish, stay away from buying that transmission. The color is due to the overheating of transmission.
3. Check for fluid leakage
As used transmissions can’t expect to be in perfect condition, you have to check for leaks. It doesn’t seem to be a difficult process. You can find out the leaks by pouring some transmission fluid inside.
Now, observe the body of the transmission. Check whether there are any signs of liquid coming out. If you could see any leakage, better go with a different used transmission.
4. Hear for any unusual noise
If the transmission makes grinding, popping or squealing noises when you row through the gears, think about switching over to another used transmission out before disaster strikes. After all, you don’t want to be stuck in the middle of your driving when a piece of the transmission breaks loose and busts out the side of the case.
5. Is there any warranty?
Reputable and leading shops offer a warranty along with used transmissions. If your purchase doesn’t have a warranty attached, then it is worth looking elsewhere. Typically most dealers offer a 12 month or 12000 mile warranty based on the condition of the used transmission.
If you buy used transmissions that come with a warrant, you will have some protection as a buyer. Try to get a warranty that covers both parts and labor. Just ensure how long the warranty lasts, so that you can be prepared financially for future problems.
6. Check the transmission engagement
Start the transmission in “Park” mode. It has to start and idle without any unnecessary transmission noise. Then shift the transmission to “D” drive mode. The lever has to shift smoothly.
7. Have the transmission tested
Technologies have made it possible for the sellers to conduct a variety of tests on used auto parts even before they are installed in a vehicle. To ensure you buy a quality transmission, make sure the specific part is tested for quality before completing the transaction.
8. Get the maintenance records
Regular maintenance is very essential for a quality transmission. Before you buy a used transmission, get the maintenance records for the part.
Ensure whether the transmission was serviced for every 20,000 to 50,000 miles as per the owner's manual for manufacturer recommendations. Moreover, make sure there are any repairs in the past and if any, it was performed by certified mechanics.
9. Check the fluid level
Ensure whether the transmission fluid is filled with manufacturer approved level and quality oil to keep the internal parts freely moving as the car drive down the road. Changing out the fluid often keeps the transmission in perfect shape. This will avoid repeated transmission repairs in the near future.

10. List of Relevant References
Finally, you shouldn’t end up in buying from a shop that's not reputable. Any reputed and reliable seller could be able to provide you with a list of references of customers for whom they have sold the parts to in the past. If possible check with those references and ask them about their buying experiences. Specifically, ask for the customers' references who have bought a similar model of used transmissions in the past.

Buying used car transmissions may look stressful, but if you invest sufficient time in finding the part for you through getting a warranty, with a personal mechanic’s inspection of the transmission, and asking for prior maintenance records reduces the likelihood of problems.