Transmission problems can be a costly experience for vehicle owners. Some transmission parts are particularly expensive to replace, and a failed part can result in a hefty repair bill. Here are six transmission parts that are expensive to replace and how they can break.
1. Transmission Control Module
The transmission control module is the brain of the transmission system. It’s responsible for controlling the shifting of gears and ensuring a smooth ride. If the TCM is faulty, it can cause problems such as slipping gears, delayed shifting and rough shifting. A faulty TCM can be costly to replace, with replacement costs ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars. TCMs can fail due to issues such as corrosion, wiring problems and software malfunctions. Find out if this repair might be covered under Pennsylvania lemon law.
2. Torque Converter
The torque converter is responsible for transferring the engine’s power to the transmission. If the torque converter is faulty, it can cause problems such as slipping gears, reduced power and increased fuel consumption. Replacing a faulty torque converter can be costly, with replacement costs ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars. Torque converters can fail due to issues such as oil contamination and mechanical failure.
3. Transmission Clutch
The transmission clutch is responsible for engaging and disengaging the engine from the transmission, allowing the vehicle to shift gears. If the clutch is faulty, it can cause slipping gears, reduced power and grinding sounds. A driver may be able to identify a faulty clutch if he or she has trouble shifting from neutral into 1st gear. Replacing a faulty clutch can be expensive, with replacement costs ranging from one to several thousand dollars. Clutches can fail due to wear, contamination and mechanical failure.
4. Transmission Fluid Cooler
The transmission fluid cooler is responsible for keeping the transmission fluid cool, preventing overheating and damage to the transmission. If the fluid cooler is faulty, it can cause problems such as slipping gears, reduced power and increased fluid degradation. Some vehicles have a temperature gauge for the transmission, allowing the driver to monitor transmission health as he or she drives. Replacing a faulty fluid cooler can be a dear repair, with replacement costs ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars. Fluid coolers can fail due to issues such as corrosion and faulty welds.
5. Transmission Valve Body
The transmission valve body controls the flow of transmission fluid and regulates the shifting of gears. If the valve body is faulty, it can cause problems such as slipping gears, delayed shifting and loud shifting. Replacing a faulty valve body can qualify as the type of repair you place on a credit card, with replacement costs ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars. Valve bodies can fail due to issues such as extensive wear, overheating and mechanical failure. Drivers can avoid this repair by investing in high-quality parts, as sub-par manufacturing is a common cause for this type of failure.
6. Transmission Solenoid
The transmission solenoid is responsible for controlling the flow of transmission fluid, which regulates the shifting of gears. If the solenoid is faulty, it can cause problems such as slipping gears, delayed shifting and rough shifting. Replacing a faulty solenoid can be a debt-inducing repair depending on the vehicle, with replacement costs ranging from several hundred to a thousand dollars or more. Solenoids can fail due to issues such as corrosion and mechanical failure.
Transmission problems can be a challenging experience for vehicle owners, as some transmission parts are particularly expensive to replace. However, there are ways to cut down on costs, such as opting for aftermarket parts like if you buy ls throttle body, which can be a more affordable and efficient replacement option. Understanding replacement costs and available parts can help vehicle owners make informed decisions about their travel expenses and challenges.
