Get a new transmission or repair an old one?

XENKA

MEMBER
DODGE CARAVAN

I drive a 2001 Dodge Caravan, it has only 67000 km on it, but recently the Check engine light went on. I took it to a dealerhip and was told that I need a torque converter to be replaced and a possible transmission overhaul. They didn't recommend for me to use a rebuilt one. However, when I called around some other shops that specialize in transmissions I was told that they don't recommend trying to fix the one I have, but to use a rebuilt one instead. Could you please tell me if it is better to repair an original transmission or to get a new one? I know nothing about cars. Thank you.

3 Replies

VANDRAGON

MECHANIC
298 POSTS

You didn't say what trans it has or what it is doing. Does it work at all or just in low gear. Could be a sensor. If speedo is working, then it's the input sensor if not it's the output! Post back with more info and you may find the answer that you seak. If it has never had a fluid and filter change it's over due.

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Thursday, March 23rd, 2006 AT 11:42 AM

XENKA

MEMBER
2 POSTS

It is the 3.3 l trans. It working and I am still driving it. I was told that they don't know what exactly is wrong with it and was told that the only way to find out exatly is to take it out and open it. The dealership ran 2 scans, first code was Internal fault code P0740, P0700 torgue converter clutch control circuit. While running the second test, they were only able to find out that the problem is inside of the trans and that some fluid that is supposed to be bright red is black and that something is being burnt inside.

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Thursday, March 23rd, 2006 AT 12:11 PM

COOL DAKOTA

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Sounds to me like a clog somewhere. All fluid should be moving around when driving. I don't think I would have a new one put in. Rebuilding the old one is ok, but there might be a much bigger price difference.

Perhaps you should consider the new one, depending on the price. I almost think a part inside the tranny could be replaced too.

Good luck. And take the car to a tranny shop.A good one. And get a second opinion before you go replaceing anything.

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Friday, March 24th, 2006 AT 12:20 AM