A slipping transmission can be one of the most costly repairs you can have done to your vehicle. Before you decide to have it replaced, you should know what is causing your transmission to slip. This will determine if the entire transmission needs to be replaced or a minor repair.
There are many reasons why your transmission might slip. The cause could be as minor as not having enough transmission fluid in your system. If your transmission is low on fluid, this repair could be as simple as buying $5 to $15 of fluid to top off your transmission. The fluids cost will vary based on the amount you need and the brand you choose.
Generally speaking, if you need to completely replace your transmission expect to pay an average of $2,800. This range can vary from $1,400 to $5,800, depending on your vehicle’s year, make, and model. However, it may be possible to rebuild your transmission for around $1400. Finally, it some cases the slipping is caused by an electronic part which could average about $300 plus labor of $460.
If your vehicle is experiencing slipping, it might be time to take it to a professional for repair. This article will discuss what could be causing your slipping transmission and how much it will cost to fix.
Cost to Fix a Slipping Transmission
The cost to fix your slipping transmission could be as low as $5 and go up to $5,800 depending on the reason your transmission is slipping in the first place.
Here are a some costs associated with the most common causes of a slipping transmission:
Low Fluid
A slipping transmission is often caused by driving the vehicle while the fluid level is low. The cost to add some transmission fluid will be, on average, about $8.
Worn Clutch
When the clutch inside your transmission wears down, this could also cause a slipping transmission. You’ll notice that it takes more effort to drive your vehicle when the clutch is worn down. Having the clutches replaced can cost around $1,200 or more.
Burnt Fluid
If the fluid inside your transmission becomes burnt, it could also cause it to slip. The fluid will need to be flushed and replaced, costing about $120 under average conditions.
Worn Out Gears
When gears become worn down or burn because of the excess stress put on them, this could also be a reason you’re experiencing a slipping transmission. If your gears are worn out, you might need to have all of them replaced. Replacing individual gears can cost anywhere from $100 to $250 per gear.
Torque Converter Failure
If the torque converter inside your transmission fails, this could also cause it to slip. Replacing the torque converter can cost around $700 on average.
Shift Solenoid Failure
A shift solenoid controls the shifting of gears in your automatic transmission by ensuring that fluid circulates through it. If this is damaged or fails, your transmission will slip.
You should expect to pay between $150 and $500 to replace a single shift solenoid.
Replacing A Transmission
If your transmission has completely failed and needs to be replaced, the cost will be between $1,400 and $5,800. This cost will depend on where you take it and the type of vehicle you drive.
Replacement is usually the last resort for a slipping transmission. If there is too much damage to your current transmission, this may be the only viable option to get your car running again.
In some cases, an entirely new transmission is warranted, even if it would cost less to replace certain parts of your old transmission with new parts.
The reason for this is that your entire transmission works together as a unit, so if just one part of it is damaged, you can run into more problems in the future.
The cost of a new transmission can go up to $5,800 (or more in some cases) for a professional job.
Here are some average costs of replacing the transmission of some popular make and models:
- Honda Accord – $1,800 to $3,200
- Ford F-150 – $2,500 to $3,800
- Dodge Durango – $2,400 to $3,400
- Toyota Camry – $1,900 to $3,400
The best way to find out how much it will cost for your specific vehicle is to get a free online quote for transmission replacement near you.
Rebuilding A Transmission
Rebuilding your transmission can be a longer-term solution. This is a cheaper option compared to replacing the entire system with a new one.
A rebuilt transmission can cost, on average, around $1,000 to $3,000.
This is ideal for individuals who don’t want to spend more on a new transmission but also want to avoid costly repairs in the near future. If your transmission is beyond the dealership’s warranty period, having it rebuilt can be easier on your wallet.
A rebuilt transmission is essentially a whole new transmission with all-new parts, so you can expect it to work as well as new.
| Type of Repair | Cost of Parts | Cost of Labor (average) | Total Costs |
| Replacing Transmission | $1,800 – $3,400 | $125/hr | $1,400 – $5,800 |
| Rebuilding Transmission | $100 – $600 | $150/hr | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Low Fluid | $5 – $10 | $0 | $5 – $10 |
| Worn Clutch | $100 – $400 | $200/hr | $875 – $1,700 |
| Burnt Fluid/Fluid Flush | $70 – $100 | $80/hr | $80 – $290 |
| Worn Our Gears | $150 – $250 per set | $175/hr | $700 – $1,500 |
| Torque Converter | $150 – $400 | $100/hr | $550 – $1,100 |
| Shift Solenoid | $50 – $300 per pack | $100/hr | $300 – $700 |
What Can Cause a Transmission to Slip?
Low Fluid Level
If your fluid level is low, you’ll need to add some fluid to top it off. The average cost of transmission fluid is around $8. The best time to check the levels is when the engine is warm. Pop the hood and look at the dipstick that should be located on the driver’s side of the vehicle.
Make sure you buy the same type of fluid that your manufacturer recommends. If you notice your fluid levels continue to decrease after refilling, there may be a leak, which could signify that you need to take your car to a professional.
Worn Clutch
On an automatic transmission, clutch plates connect and disconnect with each other to change gears. A worn clutch is another common cause of slipping transmissions. It’s crucial to replace the worn clutch as soon as possible so you can avoid further damage.
Replacing a worn-out clutch can cost an average of $1,200 or more, depending on where you get it done. This cost can range from $875 to $1,700 for parts and labor.
This type of repair is best left to professionals; however, if you are comfortable with doing the work yourself, you can save some costs by replacing your clutch on your own.
Burnt Fluid
If burnt fluid has damaged the inside of your transmission, the best way to fix it is by flushing out the entire system.
It’s recommended to get the transmission flushed by professionals who will charge you an average of $120 per flush. This will also require the replacement of the transmission filter, which can cost about $50 on average. A transmission flush could be as low as $80 and run up to $290.
If you’re comfortable performing this task yourself, you can save some serious cash.
If you have the equipment to do the job properly, then you will only need to pay for the filter ($50) and transmission fluid ($40) to do the job yourself.
Worn Out Gears
There are some indicative signs of having worn-out gears inside your transmission. A grinding noise that gets louder when you accelerate or a jarring feeling during acceleration are often signs that gears within your transmission need to be replaced.
Depending on the severity of your gear damage, this can be a very costly repair. Replacing gears can cost between $700 and $1,500.
You’ll need to replace all of the gears that are worn for your transmission to work properly again.
If there is too much damage, replacing the entire transmission may be more cost-effective than repairing the gears.
Torque Converter
The torque converter is a device that speeds up and slows down the engine speed. It allows the vehicle to work with different gears at different speeds.
A damaged torque converter can cause various problems with your transmission.
If something is wrong with your torque converter, your transmission can skip gears or delay shifting. This is another repair that should be left to the professionals.
You can expect to pay between $550 and $1,100 for repairing or replacing a torque converter.
Shift Solenoid Failure
This problem will also affect your transmission’s ability to shift. The solenoid is what allows the transmission to change gears smoothly and efficiently.
The best way to fix this issue is by replacing the entire solenoid pack. It’s best to leave this repair to professionals as it is a complicated job.
Replacing a single shift solenoid will cost $100 to $500, and a shift solenoid pack will cost $300 to $700. A mechanic will likely take about 3-4 hours to complete the job, costing an average of $100/hr in labor.
After considering the possible cause of the slipping, it could be better to replace the entire transmission if it is more cost-effective.
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How to Reduce The Chances of Transmission Slipping
You can do several things to reduce the chances of your transmission slipping. The number one way to avoid a slipping transmission is by getting regular maintenance, especially around 30,000 miles. This will allow mechanics to catch minor problems before they turn into full-blown transmission issues.
If you notice any difference in shifting or vehicle performance, it is always essential to have it checked out as soon as possible. This is the best way to avoid major transmission repairs in the future.
Also, make sure to check your fluid levels and condition periodically. If your transmission fluid is dirty or low, it can cause significant problems for your transmission system. Transmission fluid that is dark in color or smells burnt is another sign of trouble and should be addressed immediately.
Different driving habits can also reduce the chances of a slipping transmission. A good rule to follow is to go easy on the gas pedal while you are accelerating.
Tire pressure can also affect transmission function, so keep an eye on that to reduce slipping problems. Keep tires properly inflated at all times, and rotate them every 6,000 miles or so.
And last but not least–don’t forget to replace your car’s transmission fluid every 30,000 miles or so, as this can significantly reduce slipping problems in the future.
Again these are just some of the steps to avoid transmission slipping. You should consult with your car’s manufacturer or mechanic for additional advice on how to keep your transmission in good working order.
Final Thoughts
A slipping transmission can be frustrating to deal with, especially if there is already some damage to the unit. If you need your car for work or school, it can be even more of a pain to deal with an unreliable car that keeps stalling out on you.
Before you get upset, it is important to remember that this happens to most cars at some point or another. With these useful tips on what to look for and the correct steps to take, it is possible to avoid significant transmission repairs in the future.