MMoney Problem Solver™
Sample cases
Sample caseFictional example written to demonstrate the format. Not advice about a real situation, and not one of your problems.
Car

Transmission repair quote

Comparing options$3,850 under review

Shop says the transmission needs replacing on a 2016 sedan with 118,000 miles. No diagnostic report was provided with the quote.

Problem-Solving Engine

Step 4 of 7

Compare — What are the real options?

  1. Identify — complete
  2. Verify — complete
  3. Understand — complete
  4. Compare — current
  5. Protect
  6. Act
  7. Track

The bottom line

A slipping transmission can mean a full replacement, but it can also mean fluid, a solenoid or a valve body. Nothing in this quote shows which one it is. Getting the diagnosis in writing is the cheapest next move.

2

Red flags

2

Options

2/4

Steps done

Part 1

Your action plan

  1. Do this first

    Ask the shop to put the diagnosis in writing

    Request the specific test performed and its result, by email or on the estimate.

    Completed

  2. Then do this

    Take that written diagnosis to a second shop

    Completed

  3. Before paying, verify this

    Get the warranty terms in writing — unit and labour

    Not yet done

  4. If they refuse

    If a shop will not put the diagnosis in writing, treat that as your answer

    Not yet done

Part 2

Red flags and risks

  • A major repair recommended without a written diagnostic result.
  • A single total figure with no parts-versus-labour breakdown.

Part 3

What we know

  • The shop recommends replacement and quoted $3,850 as a total.
  • The symptom described is slipping between two specific gears when warm.
  • The quote does not itemise parts against labour.

Part 4

Still needs verifying

  • Whether a transmission fluid and pressure test was performed.
  • Whether the replacement unit is new, rebuilt or used.
  • What warranty covers the unit and the labour, and for how long.
  • Whether the diagnostic fee is credited if you proceed.

Part 5

Your options, side by side

Option A

Get a written second opinion before authorising anything

Often $0–$150, sometimes credited against the repair

  • Confirms whether the failure is the unit or a component
  • Gives you a comparable quote to negotiate with
  • Takes a few days
  • May involve a second diagnostic fee

Option B

Authorise the replacement at this shop

$3,850 as quoted

  • Fastest route back to a working car
  • You would be paying for a replacement without a confirmed diagnosis
  • No warranty terms established yet

Part 6

Questions to ask

  1. 1.What test led you to conclude the transmission itself has failed?
  2. 2.Is the replacement new, remanufactured or used — and what is the warranty on each?
  3. 3.What is the parts cost, the labour hours and the labour rate?
  4. 4.If a solenoid or valve body fixes it, what would that repair cost instead?

What the customer told us

Show
Vehicle
2016 sedan, 118,000 miles
Reported symptom
Slipping between 2nd and 3rd gear when warm
Shop diagnosis
Transmission replacement recommended
Quoted total
$3,850
Diagnostic report
Not provided

Documents (example)

  • Repair estimate (photo)

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