Hi Guys,

I need your guidance ... I have a 2002 Jag S-Type 3.0 with 100,000 miles. After replacing the rack and pinion system two months ago ($2,200), and now the transmission gone (confirmed by the Jag dealership) will cost $3,100 as quoted by Aamco. (No problem with them)

Here's where I need your guidance; Is it worth fixing the transmission, or will this become a money pit?

Meaning, what other major problems should I expect to see now that I'm crossing the 100k mark?

I really appreciate our help!
Thanks in advance,
adouglas

The price for that transmission seems a bit inflated. Shop around!

If it were me, before I spent any more money I would get a second or even third opinion.

These cars are quite sophisticated to diagnose and it is very common for a garage to get it wrong, telling a customer they need a new 'box when all they needed was a selector cable, for example.

What is the problem, what are the symptoms?

Dave

Agreed.

Firstly, you are NEW, so welcome to our little world. Take the time to do the introduction in the "new Members" area as soon as you can.

The 5R55N trans is a basic Ford unit, pretty tough unit, and cheap as any to rebuild, even down here.

I am assuming that it is a 5 speed, and an early 2002, pre 6 speed introduction??.

The "magic" 100K miles is no big deal with the "modern motor car".

Things like power steer fluid changed annually keeps the power steer components all warm and fuzzy.

These "sealed for life" transmissions really are a bummer, and down here all the manufacturers using them are now advising a fluid change at "about 80k kms". So if you have done 100k miles without a fluid change, then maybe the trans is toast, but a simple fluid drain and refill works wonders in nearly all cases I have been involved with.

I also say get another opinion, trans shops anywhere will be very familiar with this unit.

I'm pretty sure the transmission is almost gone, and let's assume that it is. (I know, but go with me here.)

Is it worth the investment of $3,100 at 100k to fix. What are the next things that start to go out at this point?

Thanks so much!

Im a jag mechanic and in my experience, after the tranny and the ps system, then little annoying things start to go out. Those two seem to be the biggest but if check the following (maybe you already fix them in your car)

The electric cooling fan
Th electric cooling fan driver
radiator
upper radiator hose
Plastic vacuum hoses
buttlefly manifold seals
oil pan gasket
compressor

This is just the top of my head and Im sure Im missing something but these are things I can do by memory, which means I've done quite a few and quite honestly most customers get frustrated before they fix all of them. Just trying to be honest, if you really like your cat then go for it! or maybe a new better cat

Best of luck!!!

daxster,
What happens to the radiators at 100k plus mileage? You listed as one of the things that typically needs replacing?

daxter1987,

You are a Godsent! Thank you so very much. I'll have to call around to understand the cost around fixing the things you outlined, and report back.

Thanks again!
adouglas

Wow! First, the bad news... you spent way too much $$$ - $2,200 to replace the rack and pinion system. (Rather simple DIY - if your mechanically inclined - Ebay - sells the units between $150 - $250 depending...) Hopefully, you have some type of warranty...

Second - $3,100 is kind of pricey to fix. Are there any codes? Might be worth investing in getting the fluid level checked/possibly changed?

Third - I would stay away from Ammco - go to a trans indy shop - you can get a better price. For example I paid about $2,400 for a Jasper rebuilt unit & new TQ w/ a 100K mile/3 year warranty. Shop around and dig - just don't write off the trans yet...

Fourth - As far as if to spend the $3,100? Your probably belly up on value at this point. (Of course maybe you picked up this Jag at a steal - hopefully)

Fifth - Stay away from the dealership at all costs...

Good Luck!

Thanks abonano (very helpful).

From the Hennesy Jaguar invoice on Piedmont Rd ... (btw cost $125 for them to take a look at the Transmission Fault code, after AutoZone and Ammco were unable to read the manufacture's code)

- Scan with SDD and found DTCS (P1788 and solenoid circuit malfunction)
- Replacement Transmission Needed.
- Internal Failure with solenoid in value body

Will call some independent transmissions shops, and reply with feedback.

Thanks

Jag dealers like many other dealers don't fix a broken trans they just charge a fortune to replace. Yes, you want a trans shop

+ 1 on trans shop (go with indy as I previously mentioned) - on the 5R55N trans - the soleniod pack typically fails. About $200 - $300 for a quality replacement and labor to install... plus fluid/filter...

I replaced my Trans at 127k, uses the mazda Bravo /Ford unit so readily available. My mate had his Bravo changed last month. Both new solenoid packs gave up within 100 km and shop said they are a complex system with a 30% failure rate from new !!!! New trans is now perfect so planning on a few years of enjoyable driving...... once I get the heater to work !! Paul

The further I read on several posts here is that if you have some basic mechanical skills and you can take your time you can work on these with help. Transmissions and engines are another question...I say if you Love your car then it is better than paying A huge payment monthly. I would like to own a newr Jag this Year...2004 to 07 I guess...trying to see which I like best

Abonano - Sir you absolutely nailed the solution for me.

After finding the Transmission Doctor at Eastside Collision, just as you noted ... He replaced the Solenoid Assembly, fluid, filter gasket and inspected the valve body inspection with a 90-day warranty for under $700.

I picked her up last night, and man she runs like a dream. I'm going to take out tonight for a nice long drive.

This forum and you guys absolutely rock! You saved me from spending $20k on a new car.

I love you mannnnn ...

Good Deal!

My new replaced gearbox june 13 gave up this week. Reverse solenoid failure and no 4 th gear. Actually hadn't noticed that , only the high revs when going up hills. They replaced solenoid pack which fixed reverse but now have to take box out to fix 4th gear. All under warranty... Paul

grandhaze - Did the shop replace the solenoid assembly w/ rebuilt unit or new? Guess it doesn't matter - as long as it's covered under warranty. your set..

I think they used a rebuilt solenoid unit which now works. The 4th gear problem is still an unknown for the shop until they drop the box and find the fault. Computer checked out ok so they suspect a control system etc. Will post the issue when they tell me. Paul