Does your car jerk, hesitate, or take forever to shift gears?
A transmission filter issue could likely be the culprit.
Found only in automatic transmission vehicles, this filter keeps dirt and debris out of the transmission fluid, ensuring smooth operation. But when it gets blocked, fluid flow is restricted, leading to rough shifting, overheating, and costly transmission repairs.
Wondering how much a transmission filter change costs?
Keep reading as we break down the costs, explore the factors that affect pricing, and guide you through the transmission filter change process so you know what to expect.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does Transmission Filter Change Cost?
- Is It Worth Changing the Transmission Filter?
- 6 Signs You Need a Transmission Filter Change
- How Long Does a Transmission Filter Last?
- How Is a Transmission Filter Changed?
How Much Does Transmission Filter Change Cost?
Here’s what you’ll likely spend on a transmission filter change:
A. Range
The cost of a transmission filter change usually ranges from $90 to $270 and includes:
- Transmission filter replacement: $15 to $100
- Labor cost: $75 to $170
But here’s the thing:
A filter replacement service typically also involves transmission fluid change and pan gasket replacement. Here are the estimated costs of these services:
- Transmission pan gasket replacement: $10 to $50
- Automatic transmission fluid change (ATF): $150 to $280
Considering these additional services and labor costs, a filter, pan gasket, and transmission fluid change will cost around $250 to $600.
NOTE: Most manual transmission cars don’t have a transmission filter. They rely on splash lubrication, where the movement of gears circulates the manual transmission fluid (MTF) without needing a pump or filter. Instead of a filter, manual transmission vehicles rely on a magnetic drain plug to catch metal shavings and debris.
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Some other factors that can affect your transmission filter change cost include:
- Vehicle type: Luxury and high-performance cars often require special parts and skilled labor, resulting in more costly repairs.
- Filter accessibility: In some cars, the transmission filter may be harder to reach, requiring more time and labor, which increases labor costs.
- Filter type: There are eight types of transmission filters, including screen, felt, paper, inline, spin-on, magnetic, mesh, and heavy-duty filters. Basic filters (screen, felt, and paper) are more affordable, while magnetic and heavy-duty filters are pricier due to their durability and specialized functions.
- Parts quality: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are built specifically for your vehicle and tend to cost more than aftermarket alternatives, which may be cheaper but vary in quality.
- Related repairs: During a filter replacement, a mechanic might inspect and replace worn seals, the valve body, or cooler lines, increasing your final bill.
Is It Worth Changing the Transmission Filter?
Absolutely!
Replacing your transmission filter is a crucial maintenance step that helps keep your vehicle’s transmission running smoothly and efficiently. The filter prevents dirt, metal shavings, and debris from circulating in the system, ensuring the transmission fluid stays clean.
Here’s why a filter change is worth it:
- Protects transmission system components: By keeping contaminants out, it prevents damage to critical parts like the valve body, transmission pump, and clutch packs.
- Improves vehicle performance: Clean transmission fluid allows for smoother gear shifts and helps the transmission operate more efficiently.
- Extends vehicle lifespan: Regular filter changes, as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer, can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your vehicle’s transmission.
6 Signs You Need a Transmission Filter Change
If you notice these transmission issues, call roadside assistance or visit a mechanic to get your filter replaced:
- Transmission leak (puddle of red liquid under the vehicle)
- An illuminated check engine light
- Whining or rattling noises from the transmission pump
- Abnormal shifting or gear slipping
- Smoke or burning smell from the transmission as it overheats
- Burnt or contaminated transmission fluid
How Long Does a Transmission Filter Last?
Most vehicle manufacturers suggest changing the filter every two years or 30,000 miles (whichever comes first) to avoid transmission issues.
However, you might need to replace it sooner if:
- The filter gets clogged from metal shavings and debris building up over time.
- Dirt and contaminants enter the system, especially when driving in muddy or off-road conditions.
- Transmission fluid breaks down and turns into sludge, blocking proper fluid flow.
- Constant neglect of scheduled maintenance causes buildup and blockages in the transmission system.
How Is a Transmission Filter Changed?
Changing a transmission filter involves lifting the vehicle and removing key transmission system parts, which can be tricky. A slight mistake can lead to costly damage. So, if you’re not confident handling car repairs, it’s best to let a mechanic do the job.
Here’s how they’ll replace your transmission filter:
- Lift the car: Use a jack to lift the vehicle, then secure it with jack stands.
- Drain the automatic transmission fluid: Place a container under the drain plug, remove the plug with a socket wrench, and allow the liquid to drain completely.
- Remove and clean the transmission oil pan: Unscrew the bolts, remove the pan, scrape off the old gasket, and clean out any debris and leftover fluid.
- Remove the old transmission filter: Unscrew or pry out the old filter, depending on how it’s attached.
- Install the new transmission filter: Secure the new filter in place using bolts or a retaining clip.
- Install the new gasket: Apply a thin adhesive layer and attach the new gasket to the transmission pan.
- Reinstall the transmission pan: Align the transmission oil pan, reattach it, and tighten the bolts securely.
- Refill the transmission fluid: Add the new fluid as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. Check the transmission fluid level using the dipstick while the engine is running.
- Dispose of old transmission fluid: Take the used fluid to a recycling center to ensure proper disposal as per environmental regulations.
Transmission Repair Made Easy with AutoNation Mobile Service
A minor transmission problem, like a clogged filter, can lead to overheating and severe damage. While the cost of a filter replacement depends on labor, parts, and additional services, it’s a small investment compared to other costly transmission repairs.
Need a reliable transmission filter replacement?
Contact AutoNation Mobile Service.
We’re a mobile car maintenance solution offering upfront pricing, after-hours customer support, and a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty on all transmission-related repairs.
Book an appointment today to get hassle-free transmission repair in your driveway.