2006 TRD DCLB - Automatic Transmission & TC Repair Cost

Joined today as a new member. Been lurking TW for probably for 10 plus years. No excuse not to join and always found valuable information. First post so wanted to contribute and share my recent experience with a transmission issue so others have some baseline information.

2006 Tacoma DCLB 4WD TRD Offroad w/ 169k miles, 2 owner in 2010 with 60k
Frame replaced in 2016.
Located in Central Massachusetts (aka road salt capital of the US)

The truck started to have a harsh engagement at various speeds (torque converter) with shuddering at low speeds. Brought to the local mechanic who advised bringing it to a transmission specialist. Below is the cut and paste from the quote:

Toyota 750F Transmission Overhaul Service w/ 3 Year/36,000 Mile Warranty:
1 Remove Transmission 6 hrs x 157.49 = $944.94
2 Hot Flush Transmission cooler 0.75 hrs x 157.49 = $118.12
3 Overhaul transmission 9 hrs x 157.49 = $1,461.15
4 Master Overhaul Kit $698.55
5 Torque Converter $465.88
6 Valve Body Kit $254.11
7 ECO AFT Quart8 Install Transmission 7 hrs x 157.49 = $1,102.43
9 Transmission range sensor $168.88
10 tax, epa, shop supplies $118.02
TOTAL = $5,443.60

The shop is reputable (not dealership). The warranty is impressive IMO.
I thought the $157.49 per hour cost was very high. I'm mechanically inclined but this repair is way above my ability. Intend to shop around but don't think it will be huge savings. Would love a new truck but can't come to terms with the new and used market prices either. Not a big fan of the 3rd gen's and finding a 2nd gen in good condition in New England is impossible. I have Leer topper for it and would buy another Long Bed for this reason. It's my daily driver too.

 

Welcome to TW! Have you considered a used transmission from a salvage yard?

 

Yes, but the best price for "used" transmission from the salvage was $1500.
The cost of the overhaul / transmission part portion is $2,159.70
3 Overhaul transmission 9 hrs x 157.49 = $1,461.15
4 Master Overhaul Kit $698.55

For the extra cost of $600 with a 3yr/36K warranty then it's not worth gambling on the salvage part.
There's no warranty from the transmission shop on a used part.