Need transmission repair but have bad credit? Learn how to secure financing, explore flexible payment options, and find auto shops that offer bad credit financing.
Need transmission repair but have bad credit? Learn how to secure financing, explore flexible payment options, and find auto shops that offer bad credit financing.
The transmission is one of the most complex and expensive systems in a vehicle, and when it fails, it often has little warning. The good news is that you may be able to use bad credit transmission repair financing to get back on the road.
In this article we’ll go over:
Cars use either an automatic or a manual transmission. Generally speaking, a manual transmission is less complex, and therefore less prone to breaking down. However, few newer vehicles utilize manual transmissions.
The main point of failure in a manual transmission is the clutch. The clutch will wear out over time. The good news is that a slipping clutch can be replaced without replacing the entire transmission.
Like a manual transmission, the automatic version has a series of gears. However, as the name implies, an automatic transmission shifts on its own with the help of pressurized fluid. There are a variety of moving parts, which makes them somewhat complex to repair.
Another term you may hear is CVT transmission. These have been used for about 15 years in front-wheel drive cars. A CVT transmission is less complex than a standard automatic because it uses a belt on two pulleys to change speeds rather than gears.
Automatic transmission replacement costs can be around $2,500 to $5,000 with an manual transmission being slightly less expensive. Because of the high cost, this can be a good option for financing.
Below is a rough estimate of costs for transmission replacement, assuming an average, mainstream car:
Keep in mind that part availability may be a concern for some vehicles. Finding an auto repair shop to work on short notice may also factor in the price.
*Note: Payment solutions vary based on the merchant and will be indicated at the beginning of the application process. Be sure to confirm that the merchant you select offers the lease, loan, or alternative payment solution you intend to apply for. Prices may vary based on availability, the complexity of repairs or replacement, and more.
A transmission shop may offer both transmission repairs and replacement. A repair may include replacing just the damaged parts (typically a pump, solenoids, or a torque converter), or a full rebuild.
Transmission replacement usually consists of swapping your existing transmission with a used one.
The best option comes down to the shop, its pricing, and warranty terms. It may be a good idea to ask about the mechanic’s experience doing rebuilds and what type of parts and labor warranty is offered if you choose to go the repair route.
Unfortunately, transmission repair is one of the most expensive auto repairs, sometimes costing thousands of dollars. And usually, you have to have good credit to be approved for a traditional loan. But what if you have less-than-perfect credit? It may be challenging to find options for financing. The good news is transmission repair financing options may provide funding with no credit required.*
There are a range of different options to cover the costs of vehicle repairs. Credit cards are a go-to option for many purchases. However, credit cards may not offer a high enough line of credit to cover major car repairs like a transmission replacement.
Some mechanic shops offer payment plans or have lending partners that allow customers to make monthly payments. Other loan options may include payday loans or title loans. Title loans may come with unfavorable repayment terms. Alternatively, credit unions may offer personal loans or auto repair loans with more favorable terms, but that sometimes comes with a lengthy loan application process and usually requires a high credit score. This ultimately means waiting for approval as well as money.
One of the biggest considerations for many owners is that they can get their car repaired quickly, so they can get to work, take their kids to school, and run errands.
That is why you may want to consider financing options that offer a decision with no credit required, particularly if you have bad credit.
Finding a repair shop that works on transmissions may be more than just a quick search for auto repair. Because a transmission is one of the most complex parts of a car, some mechanics may not work on them. And, some mechanics may only offer replacement services rather than repairs.
Combining these factors with a shop that also offers auto repair financing can be tricky. The best place to start is by contacting a trusted mechanic. Asking for recommendations from friends and family is also a good starting point. If you need help identifying auto repair shops or mechanics in your area that offer financing for less-than-perfect credit, start here.
Here are a few questions you may want to ask when calling local mechanics about transmission repair:
If you are having trouble locating a mechanic that does transmission repairs, try searching instead for a transmission shop. These shops specialize primarily in repairing transmissions.
Another way to locate a mechanic that offers financing is by using our convenient search tool1.
A blown transmission doesn’t have to wreak havoc on your bank account or keep you from getting to the places you need to go. Car troubles are a challenging experience, but it is something that every vehicle owner will eventually go through.
When in doubt, ask questions – ask the repair shop about warranty terms and whether they will rebuild or replace the transmission. Finally, transmission repair is costly, so it’s helpful to learn about financing options, like bad credit loans, before dropping your car off.