Your transmission is the agent that takes the raw power created by your engine and turns it into something your wheels can use, allowing your vehicle to move. Without it, your car simply won’t go anywhere.
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That’s why regular transmission maintenance is so important. We recommend having it inspected at least every 50,000 miles—or ideally every 30,000 miles. Unlike many other parts of your vehicle, such as tires, spark plugs, or ignition coils, a transmission is designed to last the lifetime of the car. When it does fail, however, repairs are often costly and can sometimes exceed the value of the vehicle.

At Morales Transmissions, we specialize in keeping your transmission running smoothly for years to come. From fluid changes to identifying early warning signs of trouble, our goal is to help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs.

And since we’re a full-service auto repair shop, we don’t just stop at transmissions—if your vehicle has other issues, we can diagnose and fix those too, all in one convenient place.

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FAQ​

Q: Can you drive with a damaged Transmission?
A: Yes, it is possible, but it depends on the severity of the damage. If your transmission is close to complete failure, driving it could put you at serious risk of breaking down or facing a dangerous situation on the road. In such cases, it’s best to stop driving and have it inspected immediately.
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Q: How much does it normally cost to fix or replace a transmission?
A: Costs vary widely depending on your vehicle, the availability of parts, labor rates in your area, and whether the transmission can be repaired or must be replaced.
For example, with Nissan vehicles, most modern models use CVT (continuously variable) transmissions. These have no traditional gears, only pulleys and a chain, and are difficult to repair or the cost to repair is often higher than getting a new unit. Many vendors do not offer remanufactured Nissan CVTs—only high-mileage used units that often cost nearly as much as brand-new. Because of this, we often recommend replacing them with a new transmission directly from the dealer for reliability and warranty coverage.

Q: How long will a repaired transmission last?
A: That depends on the type of repair and the condition of the transmission. A minor repair that only addresses the immediate issue may not hold up long if other internal damage exists. In some cases—such as a valve body replacement—the repair may resolve the issue completely, and the transmission can last for years.
For the most reliable long-term solution, a new or remanufactured transmission is generally recommended since they come with the longest warranties and the parts within are all brand new.

Q: Is it cheaper to repair or replace a transmission?
A: The least expensive option is usually a minor repair that targets only the failing component(s), but this comes with risks and often limited warranties that cover only the newly replaced parts & not the labor. It may only make sense if you plan to sell or trade in the vehicle soon.

The next cheapest option is installing a used transmission. These can be significantly more affordable than new or remanufactured units and may last for years depending on the make, model, and mileage of the donor transmission.

Q: How can I tell if my transmission is going out?
A: Common warning signs include:

• Delayed shifting or the engine revving high before a gear change occurs
  
  
• Jerking or clunking during shifts
  
  
• Loss of power or difficulty getting into gear
  
  
• Strange noises while driving
  
  

More subtle signs may include issues isolated to one gear, such as delays or vibrations. Additionally, leaks from corroded transmission cooler lines can cause fluid loss, leading to slipping or total failure. Sometimes, simply replacing the lines and refilling the fluid can solve the issue as one of our lucky customers was happy to hear.

Q: Is it worth fixing a bad transmission?
A: That depends entirely on your situation. If repairs exceed the value of the vehicle, it may not make financial sense. However, if the car is your only transportation, nearly paid off, or you only need it to last a few more months, repairing it could be worth it. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your budget, long-term plans, and personal circumstances. We can only provide the services that get you closer to your overall goal.

Q: What could be mistaken as a bad transmission?
A: Several issues can mimic transmission problems, including:

• Engine misfires, which cause hesitation during acceleration
• A stuck brake caliper, which reduces power and may even cause overheating or fire - if you have this problem, please don’t wait to get this fixed!
  Electrical issues, such as a failing alternator, bad battery, or blown fuse, which can cause poor performance and trigger warning lights
• “Limp mode” (or “safe mode”), where the vehicle computer limits speed due to a detected fault. Usually it limits the vehicle to 40 / 50 mph.
  
  

A thorough diagnostic is the best way to determine whether the issue is truly transmission-related.

Q: Can I trade in a car with a bad transmission?
A: Yes, but typically at a significantly reduced trade-in value. Some owners choose to perform a temporary repair before trading it in to maximize their return.

Q: How long do transmissions typically last?
A: With proper maintenance, a transmission can last the life of the vehicle—but driving habits, maintenance practices, vehicle design, and load conditions all play major roles.
For example:

• Aggressive driving and heavy towing shorten lifespan.
  
  
• Regularly changing the fluid every 30K miles helps extend it.
  
  
• Some transmissions, like the Nissan Jatco CVT, are notoriously prone to early failure.
  
  

While many transmissions last well over 200K miles, we’ve also seen cases where vehicles outlasted their transmissions at over 400K miles. Your unique circumstances will determine how long the transmission will last.

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