Fred99:

 

 

 

Unfortunately I suspect that to make a safe "informed decision" - you're more or less stuck with the option of a rebuild/recond job from the mechanic you're using - but it's probably worth getting a second opinion from an auto transmission specialist.

 

I see someone on TM selling used Ford trans with Mondeo listed, start price $459, various options for warranty 10 days, 90 days, 6 months.  Could be worth talking to them - they may also know "back yard" guys who'll do a transmission swap "on the cheap".  I'm not recommending that as a good way to go, as it could bite you hard, but it is an option if you're truly stuck and want to keep that car on the road. 

 

Yeah it's going to be a bit of a pain getting a 2nd opinion as I'll need to tow the car to another garage, where there's no guarantee that the 2nd place will suggest/quote a cheaper fix.  If they don't then I'm stuck again and will look like a right mug if i want to take it back to the first place.

Thanks for the link.. Good to know.  I assume the start price is for their cheapest transmission (so not necessarily a mondeo part) and with the shortest warranty... 

I just hope the transmission specialist i'm with now has good contacts and can get a reasonable 2nd hand part on the cheap...