The average transmission repair cost for Acura vehicles is around $900, but prices can range from around $300 to $1,500 depending on the particular model and the severity of the issue.

An Acura’s transmission can last anywhere from 10,000 miles to over 200,000. Naturally, specific models and model years are more prone to transmission issues than others, but any and all transmissions are at risk of needing repairs at any given time.

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How much does an Acura transmission repair cost?

Fixing an Acura transmission can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,500, with the average price landing around $900.

But the actual price that you’ll pay depends on a variety of factors: what Acura you own, the severity of the issue, and even where you live, just to name a few.

A complete transmission replacement will cost between $1,500 and $3,500. Replacing a single part, like a clutch, could cost between $800 and $1,500.

Other common transmission repair services include:

Acura transmission fluid service: $100 to $115

Acura transmission speed sensor replacement: $200 to $400

Acura transmission oil switch replacement: $20 to $90

In short: while small repairs can cost very little, a full transmission replacement can be incredibly expensive. And because the average Acura lasts between 250,000 and 300,000 miles, there’s a good chance your transmission will need attention (or a complete replacement) at some point during ownership.

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What does a transmission do?

But what’s the point of the transmission anyway? It’s the part of the powertrain that makes sure that your wheels get the perfect amount of power to drive at a given speed. It works by shifting gears, either manually (with a stick shift) or automatically.

The type of transmission your vehicle is equipped with depends on the model you own. For example, some 2023 Acura Integras are equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, while others have a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

In general, you can expect any other modern Acura to have a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Is it cheaper to repair or replace a transmission?

Repairs, if possible, are much cheaper than replacements. A full transmission replacement can cost as much as $3,500, while more minor repairs can cost as little as $20.

Keep in mind that the exact price you’ll pay for a transmission replacement depends largely on the type of transmission you select to install in place of the old one. For example,

a genuine OEM transmission

from Acura will cost much more, while remanufactured, rebuilt, and even salvaged options tend to be much more affordable.

Of course, lower-quality transmissions may need to be repaired or replaced again in the long run, effectively raising your overall car ownership costs over time.

Does it cost more to repair a manual or an automatic transmission?

In general, manual transmissions are cheaper to repair than automatic or continuously variable transmissions because they have fewer parts and a simpler design.

Replacing an Acura’s manual transmission might cost between $1,800 and $3,400.

Common Acura transmission problems

Acuras are generally dependable, but transmission problems like slipping or shuddering while shifting have been reported as early as 60,000 miles and are often noticeable in cold weather or at startup.

Bad or low transmission fluid leads to most transmission issues, which is why annual transmission fluid flushes and routine fluid level checks are essential to preventing Acura transmission failure down the line.

What year Acuras have the most transmission problems?

While any Acura can experience transmission issues, there are a few models (and model years) that stand out as particularly pesky.

2001 and 2003 Acura CL

2013-2017 Acura ILX

1987 Acura Integra

2014 Acura MDX

2019 Acura RDX

2005 Acura RL

2003-2006, 2010 Acura TL

2015 Acura TLX

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The most common Acura problems

Signs your Acura transmission is going bad

So how can you tell if your transmission is going? As mentioned above, we recommend regular fluid checks—especially as your vehicle gets up in age. But you should also keep an eye out for these common signs:

Rough shifting: If your Acura feels hesitant to change gears, there’s very likely something awry with the transmission.

Fluid leaks:

What fluid is leaking from your car

? It could be transmission fluid, especially if it's slick, red, and located underneath the hood.

Strange noises in neutral: If you’re hearing unusual noises, especially when the vehicle is in neutral, you may be experiencing transmission failure.

Burning smell: A burning smell is never good, but a transmission failure will produce a distinct burning rubber smell in the cabin.

Grinding or shaking: A poorly performing transmission almost always translates to a rough ride.

Check Engine Light or a Transmission Service Light: Sometimes the

Check Engine Light

means nothing serious, but it can also be a sign of more major issues, like transmission failure.

If you suspect a transmission problem, get your Acura into the dealership or your trusted mechanic as soon as possible.

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Are Acuras expensive to maintain?

What to do if your Acura transmission fails

It’s essential to get your Acura to a dealership or trusted mechanic as soon as you begin to notice issues with your transmission. As we noted above, repairs are far cheaper than replacements, so the sooner you address the issue, the better.

Independent auto shops tend to be cheaper, but dealerships will have specialized technicians and OEM parts. Where you take your vehicle is truly up to you.

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How to decide if you should take your car to a repair shop or a mobile mechanic

How to maintain your Acura transmission

Regularly checking and maintaining your transmission fluid is the number one way to keep your Acura’s transmission in the best condition.

An overloaded vehicle could also be the culprit, however, as it puts excessive strain on the drivetrain.

In order to prevent these problems, you should:

Check your transmission fluid periodically, about once a month

Use the correct type of transmission fluid as recommended by your owner’s manual

For automatic transmissions, avoid changing gears while the vehicle is moving

Regularly replace the transmission filter

Allow your vehicle to warm up before you start driving

Get an annual transmission inspection

Regularly maintaining your Acura’s transmission won’t just extend the life of the part—it’ll keep the rest of your vehicle running smoothly overall.

How to check transmission fluid

Checking your transmission fluid at home is just as quick and easy as checking your engine oil, and no tools are needed.

Always check the transmission fluid when the car is running. The best method is to turn your Acura on and let it run before diving in. Then, you should:

Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. It will look similar to the oil dipstick, but it’s usually further back in the engine bay.

Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, then reinsert it and take it out again.

Ensure that fluid reaches the “warm” line on the dipstick.

Add fluid in increments, if necessary, checking the level with the dipstick in between.

Replace the dipstick.

How your transmission fluid looks is just as important as its volume. It should be a clear, dark red color—like a really thick, oily Kool-Aid. Brown or black fluid is old or contaminated, which means it needs to be replaced, along with the filter.

On the other hand, light pink fluid is a bad sign, as it indicates that the transmission fluid has mixed with either water or coolant. Both are good indicators that you need a full transmission replacement.

If your Acura doesn't have a dipstick for transmission fluid under the hood, you likely have a sealed transmission. This is more common among newer models. To check the fluid level on these, remove an inspection plug on the size of the transmission case.

Keep in mind that sealed transmissions are generally more complex, so unless you’re an experienced DIY mechanic, you’re better off taking your Acura to a professional.

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Acura tune-up cost

How to save on Acura insurance costs

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