Hello,

I have a 1999 4runner limited with locker that the transmission failed on yesterday with around 88,000 miles on it. It had run and shifted perfectly until the problem started. I had drove 30 miles and stopped, put the truck in park. I then put it back in drive and got no thrust. No clunking, or noise. I put it back in park, shut the engine off, restarted, then put it back in gear. The truck shifted like normal and I went on my way. It seemed strange but I figured it was a computer problem...

A few miles later at a light, I can't move again. I put it in awd and crawled 100 ft to clear traffic and wait for a tow truck.

I took it to a highly reviewed transmission shop and they said I have extensive coolant contamination and a lot of fragments. They are quoting $2800-$3400 for complete rebuild, new computer, all service updates, and a 12,000 mile warranty.

I have read some people saying their rebuilds go out again too quickly and recommend a new transmission. I'm not the most mechanically inclined person and would really appreciate the opinions of yotatech members on what they would do in my situation.

Thanks

 

Extensive coolant contamination? Did you suffer "Pink Milkshake" where the radiator fails dumping anti-freeze into your transmission?

If yes, you need a new transmission. Or at the very least a rebuilt one different from yours.

There have been a handful of people that come out clean after this type of event. Very very early detection is the key to success. That doesn't sound like your situation as you stated you got stranded.

I'm sorry to bring such harsh news. Here's some boobs (.Y.)

 

Thank you. Can you please tell me why a rebuilt one other than mine is better than mine being rebuild to A-1 condition? The shop claims they will rebuild to the same quality as a remanufactured one from advanced, I'd like to know why that's not possible before I make the call.

Thanks a lot!

 

I'd personally rather get a used trans from the junkyard than a reman.

 

The reason for going with a quality reman as opposed to "I've got a guy" is to get a thorough rebuild.
I wouldn't put Advanced Auto or other box stores in the lump with say a Jasper. Most remans get a clutch pack and a fresh coat of silver paint on the exterior.
With a pink milkshake, you need to disassemble and replace everything to remove all the parts exposed to and contaminated by coolant. This is why so few trannys survive a milkshake. Coolant is super bad on your trans internals.
So like Vic said, a junkyard trans with no signs or milkshake would be a good option. Junkyards get most of their parts from wrecked vehicles.