What to Look For In A Used Transmission?

Purchasing a used transmission to replace a broken one is a smart, cost effective way to get a few more years out of an older car that is otherwise mechanically sound.

Your car’s transmission is an essential component that’s main responsibility is to shift gears in your vehicle. Your vehicle can either have an automatic transmission or manual, but either one, is a necessity to operate your vehicle. The transmission requires routine maintenance and a regular infusion of transmission fluid, but sometimes, you run into the problem of needing to replace the whole part entirely. Many drivers run into the question of if they need to spend a lot on a new transmission or if they can get by with purchasing a used transmission. There are many things to look for when looking into purchasing a used transmission that will ensure a quality transmission and get the most out of it. Here is what to look for in a used transmission:

Mileage

The mileage of a used transmission is a great indicator of whether or not you will be getting your money’s worth when purchasing a used transmission. The lower the mileage the better when thinking about making a used purchase, especially a transmission. Transmissions with over 100,000 miles on them are not necessarily not worth the money, but be sure to ask the reseller questions regarding past maintenance performed and whether or not the previous owner received regular tune ups at the appropriate mileage markers.

Fluid

Checking the fluid levels on the used transmission will also give you insight on the quality of the transmission. The color and consistency will tell you a little about the shape it is in. The fluid lubricates the transmission parts and keeps the part cooled off. If fluid is dark or blackish in color- that is an indicator of old fluid which tells you that maintenance was neglected by previous owners. The fluid levels should not be low. If they are, this could mean there is a leak in the transmission. The transmission fluid should be a reddish brown (not too dark) and clear, not milky, or opaque.

Car Reports and Records

Resources like CarMax reports or other similar services that provide records of vehicle maintenance and collisions are great for purchasing a used car but also great to ask for when thinking about purchasing a used transmission. You can learn more about the type of maintenance that was regularly performed on the car, and the nature of the accident that ultimately totaled the vehicle. It also provides you information about the likely condition of the transmission you are about to spend money on.

Make and Model

It is imperative that the transmission you put in your car is exactly compatible with the make and model. Sometimes the match does not have to be the exact make, model, and year- but it is best practice to ask the seller or mechanic if the transmission is compatible with your vehicle.

Warranties

Make sure to ask about warranties and extended warranties options. There will be options for these, and the reseller should know the value and condition of the transmission they are selling to you and provide you with a warranty based on that knowledge