Owning a motor vehicle can make life a lot less complicated. Without a functioning vehicle, you might find it difficult to travel between your work, home, and social engagements. Unfortunately, cars and trucks can break down. If your vehicle is experiencing transmission problems, investing in a new transmission could cost you anywhere from $1,800 to $3,500. Opting for a used transmission instead can be a simple way to reduce your repair costs.
Here are three tips you can use to ensure you invest in a quality used transmission for your vehicle in the future.
1. Always get a warranty.
There is always the possibility that your used transmission will malfunction once it has been installed in your vehicle. To ensure that your investment is protected in the event your used transmission is faulty, it's essential that you get a warranty on your purchase.
Many used transmission dealers will guarantee performance of their part for a specified number of months or miles driven, whichever comes first. If the transmission fails within these limits, the dealer will replace it at no additional cost to you. Be sure that you ask about a warranty before completing your used transmission purchase and opt to purchase from the dealer that provides the most comprehensive coverage to protect your financial investment.
2. Have the transmission tested by your mechanic.
Advancements in technology have made it possible for mechanics to conduct a variety of tests on auto parts before they are even installed in a vehicle. To ensure that the used transmission you are thinking of purchasing will be a wise investment, have your mechanic test it for quality before completing the transaction.
Your mechanic can conduct a visual inspection of the cleanliness, fluid levels, and integrity of the transmission to determine how well it has been maintained, and your mechanic can also hook the transmission up to a computer program that will generate any codes which indicate performance issues. Having a used transmission vetted by your personal mechanic prior to your purchase can reduce the chances that you will end up with a faulty replacement part.
3. Ask for maintenance records.
Regular maintenance is essential when it comes to maintaining the quality of any transmission. Before you purchase a used transmission from an auto dealer, ask to see maintenance records for the part.
Check to ensure that the transmission was serviced every 20,000 to 50,000 miles (check your owner's manual for manufacturer recommendations) and ensure that any repairs performed on the transmission in the past were completed by ASE-certified mechanics.
Buying a used transmission can be stressful, but take the time to get a warranty, have your personal mechanic inspect the transmission, and ask for prior maintenance records to reduce the likelihood of problems once the used transmission is installed in your passenger vehicle.
Consult a company such as AAA Engines and Transmissions for more information.
