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One of the most difficult adjustments I had to make after my divorce was learning how to maintain and repair my own vehicle. That was one thing that my husband had always taken care of for me. Since the divorce, I have learned quite a bit about maintaining a car myself. I have picked up a few tidbits of information that has helped me avoid being overcharged for simple things that I can quickly do myself - like jump-starting my dead battery and changing a flat tire. If you need to learn how to independently maintain your vehicle for the first time, take a moment and visit my site.

Automatic Versus Manual Transmission: Which Is More Expensive To Repair Or Replace?

16 October 2017
 Categories: , Blog

When it's time for transmission repair or replacement, one of the main factors that determine the cost to you is the type of transmission. Before you pay for any transmission service, make sure that you have all the basic information you need to make an informed decision. Here's what you need to know about automatic transmissions, manual transmissions, and the cost differences:

The Transmission's Role in Your Vehicle

A transmission is a power provider, making sure that the power gets from the engine to the driving mechanism. The engine speed (also known as the RPM, or Revolutions Per Minute) is turned into torque by utilizing the different gears, as well as the clutch if it's a manual transmission. The transmission is just as important whether it's manual or automatic -- without it functioning, your vehicle just won't work properly. 

Automatic Transmissions: Automatically More Money?

Automatic transmissions are often deemed the easiest to operate, and this accounts for their popularity. With an automatic transmission, much of the gear shifting is done without the driver's involvement. The torque converter is there to make gear selections and changes. This makes for a smooth ride -- but it comes at a price when it comes time for transmission repair or replacement.

Both repair and replacement of an automatic transmission are more costly than they would be with a manual transmission. The average cost of major transmission work for an automatic transmission (either a big repair or a replacement) can be around $3,000 to $5,000. 

Manual Transmissions: More Effort -- But Less Money Out of Your Pocket

Manual transmissions require you to shift gears continually -- but many auto purists feel that manual transmissions give you the best driving experience possible. The majority of the most luxurious sports vehicles on earth boast automatic transmissions with six or eight gears. The more numbered gears there are, the more the driver will need to shift -- and the faster they can go.

With a manual transmission, you use the clutch continually as you shift gears. In fact, the clutch is the most likely transmission related repair. The manual transmission itself will rarely need replacement, but the clutch rebuild or replacement is usually anywhere from $600 to $1,500 if major work is needed. If the problem isn't serious, a clutch repair could be only a couple hundred dollars or less. 

Tips for Avoiding Transmission Trauma

Regular maintenance from a qualified auto repair service is critical for both automatic and manual transmissions. Sometimes services like a transmission flush for $125 to $250 can help extend the life of your transmission considerably.

If you notice slipping gears or gear shifting issues, stop in to see an auto repair service that specializes in transmission repairs. Taking care of issues early can save you big money in the long run, no matter what kind of transmission you have.