Used Transmission Vs Re-built Transmission – The Better Choice

By Author: Joe Holland
Total Articles: 16
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When you compare used and rebuilt transmission, the latter is always better. A rebuilt transmission is rebuilt by a machine shop to the factory specification, replacing the parts inside an original transmission casing. It is also backed by a warranty of some kind.

When people need to replace the transmission in their car, most of them are torn between used and rebuilt transmissions. It is for the mechanic shop to explain to them the difference and help them take the right decision.

A used transmission is simply the one that has been taken out of a used car. It may be in working condition, but you never know about the time it will survive for.

A rebuilt transmission has been rebuilt by a machine shop to the factory specs. It includes replacing the components inside an original transmission casing. The machine shop will back it with warranty of some kind. A used transmission, on the other hand, is with no warranty or 30 days at most, so you really have no assurance how long it will last.

Any issues with the rebuilt transmission are taken care of in the re-build process, so more or less, it will work ...
... just like a new engine. If your mechanic shop has sourced the engine from a reputable re-builder, you can be pretty much sure of the performance of the engine. You can trust them to use quality parts and techniques for the rebuild.

Your mechanic is likely to have suppliers they work with for used or rebuilt transmissions. You can ask them to name the suppliers they would source the transmission from, so that you can research on your own and find out their credentials. A trusted company would have mentioned the complete details of their remanufacturing process. If you find a cheaper engine somewhere with adequate warranty, you can deliver the transmission to the mechanic and only pay for the labor.

Drive parts of all brands have their own unique design and features, so re-builder would require special tools and education for providing a high quality product. There are re-builders that have professionals having expertise in the products of various brands and you can trust them for multiple products. Sourcing rebuilt transmissions from such suppliers will also eliminate the hassle of having to talk with several suppliers before finding someone who you can get the transmission from.

It is important that the provider does extensive tests of their re-built transmissions. In-vehicle testing is the only reliable way to find how the transmission will work once it is under pressure. They have a process to ensure quality control in the products they provide. If there is no or poor quality control system in place, flaws may slip through the cracks and arrive at your door.

The alacrity with which a company replies to your queries or ships transmissions to you tell a lot about the kind business they are. They should be willing to listen to what you say and address any questions or comments you have. If they are found wanting along the line, they may eventually leave you hanging.

When it comes to replacing your transmission, the rebuilt transmission cost and its availability are a small part of the process. You need to factor in a bevy of other issues to arrive on the right decision.

Author of this article is associated with PowertrainDirect.com that supplies clients with high quality car engines and transmissions. They deal in rebuilt cheap transmissions of brands as diverse as Chevrolet, GM, Nissan, Honda, Toyota and other vehicles.