How much would replacing a transmission celluloid on a 2001 Saturn run?
July 14, 2012 9:05 AM Subscribe
My 2001 Saturn's transmission celluloid has gone out. It can be reached through the oil pan so it's fairly accessible as transmission repairs go. What's a reasonable price to expect for this repair? I'm just looking for a ballpark so I might know if I'm getting hosed in the estimate when I get it next week.
Best answer: I think you mean the transmission solenoid. Part is usually $150~$200 depending on the vehicle, or about 1/3 to 1/2 that if you go for the rebuild kit as a DIYer. Labor to replace it should be about an hour, hour and a half. So, say $250~$350ish, assuming $100/hr for labor. There's also going to be some cost in there for transmission oil as well.
Depending on the age of your transmission, they may encourage you to do a full flush on it. That's up to you (check your car's maintenance schedule for when this should be done). Generally, if the transmission oil is a nice, clean-looking clearish red and smells like oil, you're probably ok for a while. If it's looking more brown, smells burnt (I think it smells like burnt popcorn), and especially if you see any particles suspended in the oil, it's past time to change it. Check your owner's manual for instructions on how to check the transmission oil. That way, you'll be better prepared to approve or decline the transmission flush, should they suggest it.
Note: Some cars are really cramped and difficult to work on compared to others, so the labor involved in changing the solenoid pack on your Saturn may be vastly different vs. say, a Toyota or a Buick.
posted by xedrik at 9:28 AM on July 14, 2012
Depending on the age of your transmission, they may encourage you to do a full flush on it. That's up to you (check your car's maintenance schedule for when this should be done). Generally, if the transmission oil is a nice, clean-looking clearish red and smells like oil, you're probably ok for a while. If it's looking more brown, smells burnt (I think it smells like burnt popcorn), and especially if you see any particles suspended in the oil, it's past time to change it. Check your owner's manual for instructions on how to check the transmission oil. That way, you'll be better prepared to approve or decline the transmission flush, should they suggest it.
Note: Some cars are really cramped and difficult to work on compared to others, so the labor involved in changing the solenoid pack on your Saturn may be vastly different vs. say, a Toyota or a Buick.
posted by xedrik at 9:28 AM on July 14, 2012
Response by poster: Thank you so much! Yes, it was the solenoid. I appreciate your answers so that I can toddle off to work with at least some idea of what it might cost.
posted by Issithe at 10:02 AM on July 14, 2012
posted by Issithe at 10:02 AM on July 14, 2012
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posted by cromagnon at 9:23 AM on July 14, 2012 [1 favorite]