A rebuilt or remanufactured transmission is one where the transmission is disassembled and inspected. Worn or damaged parts are replaced (generally referred to as “hard parts”) and then reassembled to factory specifications, along with new gaskets, output shaft, valve body, seals, clutches and bands. These are commonly referred to as “soft parts.” The term “rebuilt” is generally used in a shop setting where the customer’s transmission is removed from the car, rebuilt and then reinstalled. It is a custom process performed by a specialist. Other terms you may hear that have the same meaning are “refurbished, reconditioned, or overhauled.”

After remanufactured transmissions are reassembled to factory specifications at a minimum—including aftermarket fixes for hereditary problems and known factory defects, the unit comes with installation reprogramming kits for particular valve trains to address hydraulic functions.

Benefits of Remanufactured Transmissions

A remanufactured transmission offers several benefits:

• Remanufactured transmissions are built from quality parts which are thoroughly tested, ensuring they meet original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications and come with a specific number mile warranty.
• Remanufactured transmissions are affordable when compared to new transmissions, allowing you to save money without compromising on quality. 

Remanufactured Transmissions vs. Used Transmissions

Two alternatives that you can use for replacing a faulty transmission are purchasing a used transmission or purchasing a remanufactured transmission. These two are totally different. Remanufactured transmissions undergo a complete rebuilding process, replacing worn or damaged parts and reconditioning all the internal components to meet original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standards. On the other hand, a used transmission is simply a salvaged transmission that has not undergone any rebuilding or reconditioning.

Why Choose Rebuilding Over Replacement?

1. Cost Savings

Rebuilding a transmission is almost always cheaper than purchasing a new transmission or a remanufactured transmission unit—for both manual transmission and automatic transmission. The rebuilder can reuse expensive components like housings and shafts that do not require replacement, keeping material costs to a minimum. Labor charges are also usually lower for a rebuild than for a so-called “reman transmission” remanufactured transmission, either for manual transmissions or automatic.

2. Customization and Upgrades  

Since rebuilds are done in-house, the rebuilder can fully inspect the internal condition, identify potential weak points and install upgraded aftermarket parts to improve durability. This also allows addressing any vehicle-specific issues. A one-size-fits-all replacement unit cannot offer this degree of customization.  

3. Less Downtime

The turnaround time for a local transmission rebuild is usually much shorter than ordering and receiving a replacement unit. This reduces vehicle downtime significantly.

4. Warranty Coverage

Most rebuilders provide an 18 month to 3 year warranty on their work. This protects against the possibility of issues cropping up shortly after the rebuild. Replacement units often come with shorter 90 day warranties from suppliers.

5. Environmental Impact 

Reusing a transmission case and salvageable hard parts is better for the environment than scrapping an entire unit. Rebuilding’s lower carbon footprint aligns with environmental priorities.

The Transmission Rebuilding Process Explained

Step 1: Removal and Disassembly  

The transmission is removed from the vehicle—both gasoline and diesel vehicles—and completely disassembled piece by piece. Each component is thoroughly cleaned to remove all traces of old fluid and debris. The shop may take photos during disassembly to aid with the rebuilding process. Proper storage, organizing and labeling of parts is critical.

Step 2: Inspection and Analysis

Every single component is closely inspected for wear, damage or other issues that would impair performance. Measurements are taken and compared to factory specifications to identify any out-of-spec parts. The shop determines which parts can be salvaged and what needs replacing.  

Step 3: Parts Replacement  

Based on the inspection, worn and damaged parts, such as bands, torque converter, clutches, seals and gaskets are discarded and replaced with new OEM spec parts. Certain critical components—such as shafts and housings—are reconditioned and remachined if possible rather than being replaced. Upgraded aftermarket parts may also be installed.  

Step 4: Cleaning and Prep 

All salvaged parts are thoroughly cleaned again before reassembly begins. Surface areas, fluid passages and component mating surfaces are carefully prepared—often by specialist techniques like high pressure washing. The transmission case receives expert cleaning and prep work inside and out.

Step 5: Reassembly

Using the disassembly photos as reference, the transmission is carefully reassembled to factory specs or better. All components must be installed in the proper sequence and aligned precisely. Upgraded friction materials, improved seals and superior fasteners often feature in the rebuild.  

Step 6: Testing

On completion, the rebuilt transmissions undergo comprehensive operational testing on a dynamometer to confirm smooth gear shifts, pressure integrity, proper lubrication flow and full functionality. Further adjustments may happen to achieve OEM+ performance.

Step 7: Delivery

Finally, the rebuilt transmission is delivered back to the customer or installer for reinstallation into the vehicle, along with a warranty on workmanship.

Home of Quality Reconditioned Transmissions

The transmission is an incredibly valuable and complex component. Rebuilding rather than replacing at the first sign of problems empowers you to protect the investment you’ve made in your vehicle. Opting to have your transmission expertly rebuilt by our certified shop extends the service life of your original transmission, delivers upgraded performance and longevity, and saves you thousands over replacement costs—quite a triple play.

By now it should be clear that rebuilding a compromised transmission through timely intervention makes good economic sense while also being far less disruptive than transmission replacement. Expert assessment, precise remanufacturing techniques and quality-focused processes further ensure you get back a smooth-shifting transmission tailored to your vehicle with upgraded parts where needed. This complete and diligent rebuild process checks all the right boxes when it comes to performance, longevity and return on investment.

Still unsure if a rebuild is your best bet? Connect with our transmission specialists to have an honest conversation about your options, ensuring you get a compatible transmission for your vehicle. We want you to feel 100% confident as we work together to maximize the service life of your original transmission and get you back on the road worry-free. We have both remanufactured automatic transmissions and remanufactured manual transmissions in stock, ensuring that you find what you are looking for. Rebuilding transmissions is our passion and specialized expertise. We recondition the entire transmission assembly from the inside out to our strict specifications. Trust us to care for your transmission as the precision-engineered marvel it is.