An automatic transmission is programmed to change gears within a range of RPMs. So the answer to this question really has two variables: Number one – is this a new/new-to-you vehicle, and are you used to the way it drives? Variable number two – is this a new issue with a vehicle that you are used to driving?
What Transmission Do I Have?
New vehicle – Why is my transmission shifting at high rpm?
Many modern vehicles have different drive modes that affect the way the transmission operates. For example, Economy mode makes the transmission upshift as quickly as possible for better fuel economy. On the other end of the spectrum, Sport mode makes the transmission hold gears longer for better performance. In this type of mode, the engine RPMs are going to be noticeably higher when a gear change occurs.
Vehicle you are familiar with – Why is my transmission shifting at high rpm?
Dirty transmission fluid and/or clogged transmission filter – Gear changes are actuated by pressurized hydraulic fluid/transmission fluid. If the ATF is dirty, i.e. thin, or the transmission filter is clogged, then it may take a bit for the shift to happen. Needless to say, the engine RPMs will be higher than normal when the shift finally occurs.
Bad speed sensor – In an automatic transmission, the computer relies on speed sensors to help make a decision on when to change gears. They typically read how fast the output shaft is spinning. But if the transmission speed sensor is having a hard time doing its job, the engine RPMs can increase before the shift happens.
Transmission is slipping – If the engine RPMs are noticeably high when the gear change finally occurs, the transmission may be slipping. This can be caused by the transmission fluid issues we mentioned earlier. Or it can be a pressure issue caused by a failing transmission pump, solenoid or sensor. The transmission control module/TCM could also be at fault, as could one or more of the solenoids.
If the problem is serious enough, you may need a total transmission rebuild. Although a remanufactured transmission may be your best option if you plan to keep the vehicle for a while.
How much is it going to cost to fix my transmission?
Unfortunately, the problem described here will require the removal and disassembly/partial disassembly of your transmission. Given the labor time involved to remove the transmission from the vehicle (this is not a simple task), most repair shops will recommend that you go ahead and rebuild the entire transmission while it’s out. Since they already have to tear it down, it sort of makes sense to spend the extra money to do that. After all, you should get a lot more mileage out of your transmission once it’s rebuilt. And since they’ve already got the transmission apart, might as well, right?
Why a remanufactured transmission might be a good option
While you can’t buy a brand-new transmission, a remanufactured transmission is a terrific alternative. These are completely reengineered and put together on a factory assembly line. They often contain a lots of upgrades over their stock form, which means many of the design flaws that result in premature failure of components can be eliminated. This can give a reman transmission a much longer service life than it originally had.
Remanufactured transmission companies like Street Smart Transmission put each of their reman transmissions through a rigorous build process that ensures a quality product every time. It begins with nearly 100 trained technicians that specialize in different aspects of the build process.
This remanufacturing process starts with the inspection team that test all of the critical components from the donor transmission to ensure that they meet the original equipment (OE) tolerances and specifications. The case, pumps, gears, shafts, valve body and torque converter are checked for hairline cracks, metal tensile strength, warping and other parameters. If any component fails to meet the required specifications, it’s discarded and replaced.
All the parts are then cleaned and sent to the appropriate stations on the assembly line for reassembly. Throughout the process, quality control managers inspect the build to ensure that it meets the desired specification. Any necessary modifications or upgrades that are needed to correct factory design flaws are also performed or added. The valve body is rebuilt and tested on a special dyno machine to ensure that it performs according to the specifications. All of the solenoids are also tested prior to installation.
Once the build is complete and passes its final quality control inspection, the newly remanufactured transmission is sent to the dyno room, where it’s tested on a special dyno machine using a proprietary software program called C.A.R.S. (Computer Aided Real-world Simulation). This cycles the transmission through a number of real-world driving situations, to ensure that it performs according to the factory specs. It also helps to break in all of the friction components, that way it’s completely tuned and ready to go once it’s installed.
Warranty – One of the benefits of buying a remanufactured transmission vs. a rebuilt transmission is the warranty. Street Smart Transmission for example, covers all of their reman transmissions with a 3 Year/Unlimited Mileage Nationwide Warranty (there is a mileage restriction for commercial vehicles). This covers parts and labor for transmission repairs performed by any licensed repair shop in the country. It’s also completely transferable if you ever decide to sell the vehicle. Compared to a mechanics warranty on a transmission rebuild, a remanufactured transmission warranty offers superior financial protection.
What Transmission Do I Have?
Is a remanufactured transmission worth it?
If you plan to keep your vehicle for as long as possible, then getting a transmission rebuild is certainly a viable option. However, a remanufactured transmission is a much better alternative. You’re getting as close to a brand-new transmission as it is possible. Companies like Street Smart Transmission also modify the transmission to correct all of the factory design flaws, allowing you to get a much longer service life from the transmission. So in terms of value for the money, a reman transmission might be the better way to go.
