Can a Bad Transmission Be Repaired or Is Replacement the Only Option?

If your transmission is slipping, grinding, or leaking fluid, you’re likely wondering:
Can it be repaired, or do I need a full replacement?

This is one of the most common—and most expensive—questions drivers face. The answer depends on the severity of the problem, the condition of your vehicle, and the experience of your transmission shop.

Let’s break down your real options—and how you can avoid paying more than necessary.

First: Not All “Transmission Failures” Are Catastrophic

You might think your transmission is toast, but many issues can be repaired without a full replacement. Common fixable problems include:

Low or dirty transmission fluid
Worn seals and gaskets
Faulty solenoids or sensors
Clutch or valve body issues (in automatics)
Linkage or mount failures

Get a FREE TrueTest™ Diagnostic and find out if your transmission can be repaired!
Call us at Lakewood (303) 816-3856 or Westminster (3 03) 647-5257

When Is a Transmission Repair Possible?

Transmission repair is often possible when:

The issue is caught early
The internal hard parts and housing are still intact
The damage is isolated to external components or electronics
You’re working with a shop that actually specializes in diagnostics—not guesswork

At Advanced Transmission Center, our ASE-certified techs use comprehensive inspection methods to avoid costly misdiagnoses.

When Is a Transmission Rebuild the Best Option?

If there’s internal damage—but the transmission can still be saved—a rebuild may be your best choice. This means:

Disassembling the transmission
Replacing all worn or damaged parts (clutches, bands, seals, etc.)
Cleaning and restoring the case
Reassembling it to factory or better-than-factory condition

️ A rebuild gives you a fresh start without the high cost of total replacement—and includes a warranty.

When Is Full Transmission Replacement Necessary?

Sometimes, a replacement is the only smart choice. This happens when:

The transmission case is cracked or damaged
Multiple internal parts are severely worn or destroyed
The cost to rebuild exceeds the cost to replace
Your vehicle needs to get back on the road ASAP

We’ll help you weigh the cost, turnaround time, and long-term reliability of each option.

So… Repair, Rebuild, or Replace?

Here’s how the options generally compare:

Option	Typical Cost	Turnaround Time	Best For
Repair	Low	1–2 days	Minor damage or external components
Rebuild	Moderate	2–5 days	Internal wear but salvageable system
Replace	High	2–10 days (stock)	Severe damage or unrepairable unit

What’s the First Step?

Don’t make a decision in the dark. The first step is to get a proper transmission diagnostic.

At Advanced Transmission Center, we offer our signature TrueTest™ Diagnostic—a no-cost, pressure-free inspection that tells you what’s really wrong and what it will take to fix it.

Still drivable? Bring it in today. Not sure? We’ll help arrange towing.
Locations in Lakewood & Westminster, CO
Call us at Lakewood (303) 816-3856 or Westminster (3 03) 647-5257