When your transmission starts slipping or fails altogether, panic sets in fast. And in that stressful moment, it’s easy to grab onto the first offer that sounds convenient—especially when it includes something like “Free Towing.” But in the world of transmission repair, convenience can come at a cost—and often, it’s a high one.

If you’re searching for a reliable transmission shop, the most important thing you can do is ask the right questions—before you let anyone tow your vehicle, before you sign anything, and definitely before you're presented with a sky-high bill.

Why Asking the Right Questions Matters

Transmissions aren’t your average repair job. They’re complicated systems that require specialized knowledge, precision, and the right tools. Unfortunately, some places that advertise transmission work don’t actually do it themselves. Instead, they’ll try to sell you a remanufactured unit at a premium or install a used one from a junkyard—without even properly diagnosing your issue.

Even worse, the promise of “free towing” can be a bait-and-switch tactic. Once your car is in their possession, you may be pressured into costly decisions with limited options.

The Right Questions to Ask Any Transmission Shop

Before you give a shop your keys, ask them these essential questions to protect yourself and your vehicle:

1. Do you rebuild transmissions in-house?

This is one of the biggest differentiators between true transmission specialists and general repair shops. If the answer is no, they’re likely just swapping units and charging you for the markup.

2. Can you explain what’s wrong and show me the parts?

A reputable shop will walk you through what’s going on, show you the damage, and explain your options in clear terms. Transparency is key.

3. Are you recommending a rebuilt, remanufactured, or used transmission—and why?

There’s a big difference between these options. A rebuilt transmission (done in-house by a skilled technician) can be more cost-effective and reliable than a remanufactured one shipped in from somewhere else or a questionable used unit from a junkyard.

4. What kind of warranty do you offer?

Don’t settle for vague promises. A quality rebuild should come with a real warranty that protects your investment and gives you peace of mind.

5. Who is actually doing the work on my vehicle?

You have a right to know who’s working on your car. Are they certified? Do they specialize in transmissions? Make sure it’s not being outsourced or handled by a general tech without the proper training.

The “Free Towing” Trap

Here’s the hard truth: free towing is never really free. It’s a strategy. And once your vehicle is at a shop that doesn’t actually rebuild or diagnose transmissions properly, you may find yourself with limited choices—and inflated repair costs. Many customers get stuck agreeing to overpriced replacements that weren’t necessary to begin with.

We’ve seen it happen time and time again: someone gets quoted thousands for a full replacement, only to come to us and discover the issue was minor—and completely repairable.

Choose a Shop That Specializes in Transmissions

At Superior Transmissions and Auto, we don’t believe in gimmicks. We believe in skilled work, honest diagnostics, and doing what’s best for your vehicle—not what’s best for our bottom line.

We rebuild transmissions in-house, and we take pride in walking customers through exactly what’s going on and how we can fix it. Our goal is to get you back on the road safely, confidently, and without overpaying for something you didn’t need.

Have questions? We’re here to answer them—no pressure, no bait, no surprises.