How long do automatic transmissions last?

Time and mileage vary between car drivers and how they use or abuse their transmissions. Still, typical automatic transmissions last around 150,00 to 200,000 miles or approximately 7 years. Cases exist in both extremes; extreme longevity and early failure.

How often do transmissions need to be replaced?

Some transmissions can last just over 10,000 miles, while others will last over 200,000 miles. Generally though, regular vehicle maintenance is the number one factor effecting a transmission's lifespan, and good upkeep can help it last even longer.

Do automatics last longer than manual?

They will need more frequent and more expensive maintenance. Automatics have a relatively shorter lifetime than manuals of the same make and model. Less Control – Unlike manual transmission, automatic transmission offers the driver a limited sense of control.

Do automatic transmissions wear out?

This usually takes place between 120,000 and 170,000 miles. Highway driving usually helps your transmission live longer. As a matter of interest, 30 years ago transmissions usually wore out between 70,000 and 90,000 miles.

How long before a transmission goes out?

Without service and maintenance, some transmissions can fail in as little as 100,000 miles. If you drive around 10-15,000 miles a year, your transmission could be down for the count in seven years! With care and service, transmissions can last 300,000 miles or more.

Doing This Will Make Your Automatic Transmission Last Another 300,000 Miles for Free

Is it worth it to replace a transmission?

Rebuilding a transmission can save you a lot of money over the short-term, while keeping car payments out of your monthly budget. For many, rebuilding their transmission is worth the initial cost. Rebuilding a transmission may cost you twenty-five hundred dollars or more, which is a significant chunk of change.

What are the top 5 signs of transmission problems?

What can reduce the life of my automatic transmission?

How do you know if your automatic transmission is going bad?

What goes bad in an automatic transmission?

Low automatic transmission fluid, one of the most common causes of a slipping transmission, reduces the hydraulic pressure necessary to properly shift. If there's not enough fluid or it is starting to lose its effectiveness in lubricating and cooling, the transmission will perform poorly or stop working altogether.

Are automatics less reliable?

Driving an automatic car

Many people find automatics simpler to drive. Learning in an automatic can let you concentrate more on speed and road position. Automatics can be more reliable than manuals. Modern automatics with 8 gears are more efficient than manual equivalents.

Are automatic transmissions reliable?

In short, according to the owners who responded our survey – yes. There's more to it than that, though. Overall, 24% of the cars with automatic gearboxes we were told about suffered a fault, but it was their electrical systems and engines that were most troublesome, accounting for 24% and 14% of faults.

Should I buy manual or automatic?

An automatic car is certainly easier to drive in a stop and go traffic since it does not require too much driver input. A manual car can be cumbersome in chaotic traffic and requires a lot of driver input. However, if you want to decide which gear the car should be driven, the manual car is a better option.

When should I replace my automatic transmission?

One of the most important factors is the age and mileage of the transmission. Automatic transmissions often fail between 80,000 and 150,000 miles. Manual transmissions can fail even sooner than that, especially when routine maintenance is neglected.

At what mileage should you service your transmission?

It is recommended to service your transmission every 30,000 miles or 2 years. However, if you drive in extreme conditions you may need to have it serviced more often. If you're wondering whether you are due for one, simply ask one of our technicians to help you make an informed decision.

How long do used transmissions last?

For a new transmission, you can typically expect it to last for up to 100,000 miles, which for most drivers will be about seven years. When you buy used, the transmission may only last for 50,000 miles or fewer.

Is it cheaper to rebuild or replace a transmission?

A transmission replace is the most expensive option when fixing your transmission. In many cases you will hear this referred to as “re-manufactured.” Basically, the manufacturer will replace parts that have gone bad with modified parts. This is an option if the transmission is too damaged to even consider a rebuild.

How much does it cost to fix a transmission?

Average transmission repair costs range from $300 to $1,400. For example, if your manual transmission needs a new clutch, you can reasonably expect to pay around $800 to $1,500. On the other hand, transmission replacement is one of the most expensive repairs you can get. Replacements can range from $1,800 to $3,400.

How do I keep my transmission in good condition?

Does accelerating fast damage transmission?

If you go faster, your engine will use more gas or diesel per mile driven and your transmission will wear out. Also, when you go so fast it means extra stress on all the small moving parts of your engine, and that can cause it to wear out more quickly.

Does shifting an automatic hurt the transmission?

It's never a good idea to shift your vehicle into gear, whether from “Neutral” or “Park”, when the engine is idling fast. Shifting into “Drive” or “Reverse” can cause a sudden, jarring movement on the transmission which increases the stress on the transmission bands and clutch plates.

What can damage a transmission?

Will check engine light come on for transmission fluid?

Your transmission fluid plays an important role in keeping the parts of the system lubricated. If the parts of the transmission are not properly lubricated, extreme friction can occur, which could result in damage. As a result, the check engine light can be triggered. Check the fluid levels and add some, if needed.

How long do rebuilt transmissions last?

On average, a rebuilt transmission is expected to last between 30,000 – 50,000 miles. If the work is done extremely well and regular maintenance is performed, a transmission rebuild can last as long as the original transmission (120,000 – 200,000 miles on average).