things I wish I didn't have to learn on my own

1.  Your automatic transmission WILL go out, so buy a manual - it gets better mileage anyway.

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2.  Always go to a transmission only shop.  It's a very specialized operation and if it's the only thing they do, they've got to be good at it.

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3.  There are shops out there that you can trust... here's what to look for

-confident but not arrogant responses to your questions

-you should be able to get a specific price, not just "between $1800 and $2300"

-shops that offer information without you asking

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4.  Ask about warranties.  Ask what they charge for assessments.  Ask if they can tow.  Ask if they charge to tow.

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5.  Shops exist that tow and assess for free.

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6.  The assessment is always "yes your car is broken, yes you need to fix it"

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I recently lost reverse gear and all others are slipping in the automatic transmission on my S-10 pickup.  I have to get the transmission rebuilt.  These are lessons learned along the way to fixing my truck.