So, you own a great older vehicle like an Audi or a Porsche and you have the unfortunate need of a transmission repair or rebuild. Make no mistake, this will be a big and costly job. Finding the right repair shop is a monumental affair as "normal" transmission shops are baffled by anything non-domestic. You'll know you are in trouble when they say "I can't give you an estimate until I get the transmission out of the car". That means they have little experience with your vehicle. Hang up the phone.
My suggestion is to begin by looking at the ATRA website (Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Assoc.) as they warrantee each others work, nationwide. Start calling and tell them what you have and that you think you need a rebuild. Then listen carefully at what they say. Dispense with the unsure and the arrogant.
This was my process when my 2000 Audi A8 transmission gave out at 168k. My Audi mechanic farmed out trans repairs to a no-name shop that I did not like after talking to them. So I set out to find someone who knew my vehicle and its unique and specific issues. I called a dozen local places in the northern New Jersey area and made the required inquiries. Most were not qualified to fix my vehicle. But a few were and some were saying the right things.
It wasn't until I got to the local German vehicle speed shop that made a recommendation did I decide to take it to the next level. That recommendation was to Joe at Trans Specialties in Pompon Plains NJ. He just happened to be one of only three shops that made it to the final cut. So I visited his shop. Met his partner, his wife, his kid. A family affair. But more importantly was a ZF transmission from another A8 disassembled on his workbench.
My requirement were a highly experienced rebuilder who knew the unit cold. He did. I wanted upgraded parts included. They were. And most importantly, I wanted a written work order with a firm price and no surprises. Few were willing to do that. Joe gave me everything I needed and knew all the unique issues of my vehicle. I proceeded to tow my car to his shop on a Tuesday night.
He had my car apart and diagnosed by Friday. Fully diagnosed and not just the trannie. He does all mechanical. I approved the extra work. He sent me pictures. He breathed confidence when talking about my car and its issues and resolutions. Not a bullshit confidence but a real one. I can tell. And prices were competitive and fair.
It was ready the following Wednesday, in less than a week. I got there on Thursday and drove the car. It felt like new. From a clunking hulk to winding through all 5 gears, easy as pie.
What a pleasure! No surprises! Competence! This shop is the real deal, especially if you have a German vehicle. read more