Overdrive Relay Repair Service Costs
Basic Overdrive Relay Service
Typical repair time: 1-1.5 hours
Estimated cost: $125-$187.50
Includes: Basic diagnosis, cleaning of contacts, testing of solenoid function, and basic repairs
Intermediate Overdrive Relay Service
Typical repair time: 2-2.5 hours
Estimated cost: $250-$312.50
Includes: Complete disassembly, thorough cleaning, replacement of worn contacts, rewiring of damaged circuits, and comprehensive testing
Complex Overdrive Relay Service
Typical repair time: 3-4 hours
Estimated cost: $375-$500
Includes: Complete restoration, replacement of multiple components, custom fabrication of parts, extensive electrical testing, and calibration
Note: These are estimated costs based on typical repair scenarios. Actual costs may vary depending on the extent of damage and specific parts required. All services include a final quality assurance test before return to customer.
Additional Costs:
- Replacement parts (if needed): $20-$150
- Rush service (when available): Additional 25% fee
- Shipping and handling: Varies by location
Overdrive Relay Repair Procedures by Type
Ford AOD/AODE/4R70W Overdrive Relay
Common Symptoms:Transmission won't shift into overdrive, intermittent overdrive operation
Repair Steps:
- Remove relay from vehicle (typically located under dash or in relay box)
- Disassemble relay housing carefully
- Clean circuit board contacts with electronic cleaner
- Inspect and resolder any cracked or cold solder joints
- Replace worn contacts and springs if necessary
- Reassemble relay with new weatherproof seal
- Test relay operation before reinstallation
GM 700R4/4L60E Overdrive Relay
Common Symptoms:No 4th gear, check engine light, transmission runs hot
Repair Steps:
- Locate relay in underhood fuse/relay center
- Remove relay cover and inspect internal components
- Clean relay contacts with electrical contact cleaner
- Replace corroded terminals and repair burnt traces
- Test relay coil resistance (should be 70-100 ohms)
- Replace internal micro-switch if faulty
- Verify proper operation with multimeter before reinstalling
Chrysler A518/46RE Overdrive Relay
Common Symptoms:Transmission stuck in 3rd gear, no overdrive engagement
Repair Steps:
- Remove relay from power distribution center
- Open relay case carefully to access components
- Clean all contact points and terminals
- Check and repair any broken circuit traces
- Replace damaged contact springs
- Test solenoid operation and replace if necessary
- Reassemble with new moisture seal
- Bench test before reinstallation
Important Notes:
- Always use appropriate safety equipment and anti-static procedures
- Document component orientation before disassembly
- Use only high-quality electronic cleaning products
- Replace any damaged or corroded components
- Perform complete testing before returning vehicle to service
Disclaimer: These are general repair guidelines. Specific procedures may vary by model year and vehicle configuration. Professional repair is recommended for best results.
Understanding Overdrive Relays

Basic Overdrive Relay
The Basic Overdrive Relay is an entry-level electronic device that manages the engagement and disengagement of your vehicle's overdrive system. It functions as a simple on/off switch, allowing you to control when your transmission shifts into overdrive. This relay helps improve fuel efficiency during highway driving while maintaining optimal engine performance.
Smart Overdrive Relay
The Smart Overdrive Relay is an advanced version that incorporates intelligent monitoring capabilities. It automatically adjusts overdrive engagement based on various driving conditions, including speed, engine load, and throttle position. This smart system helps prevent unnecessary shifting and provides smoother transmission operation while maximizing fuel efficiency.
Pro Overdrive Relay
The Pro Overdrive Relay represents our top-tier solution, featuring programmable settings and real-time monitoring capabilities. It allows users to customize shift points, engagement timing, and operating parameters to match their specific driving needs. The Pro version includes diagnostic features, smartphone connectivity, and data logging capabilities, making it ideal for performance enthusiasts and professional applications.
Heavy-Duty Overdrive Relay
Designed specifically for commercial and heavy-duty vehicles, this relay is built to handle the demanding requirements of larger transmissions. It features reinforced components, enhanced heat dissipation, and higher current capacity. The Heavy-Duty relay ensures reliable overdrive operation in trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles while maintaining optimal efficiency under heavy loads.
Universal Overdrive Relay
The Universal Overdrive Relay is designed to be compatible with a wide range of vehicle makes and models. It features adaptable mounting options and adjustable settings to accommodate different transmission types. This versatile relay is an excellent choice for custom installations and retrofit applications where standard relays may not be suitable.
Common Failure Symptoms of Overdrive Relay Systems
Signs of Overdrive Relay Failure & Maintenance Guide
Mechanical Overdrive Relay
Signs of Failure:
- Delayed or no engagement of overdrive
- Grinding or unusual noises when engaging overdrive
- Visible wear on relay contacts
- Corroded or burnt electrical connections
Service Schedule:
- Inspect every 50,000 miles
- Clean contacts every 75,000 miles
- Replace if necessary at 100,000-150,000 miles
Electronic Overdrive Relay
Signs of Failure:
- Check Engine Light illumination
- Intermittent overdrive operation
- Complete failure to engage overdrive
- Transmission stuck in overdrive
- Error codes related to transmission control
Service Schedule:
- Diagnostic check every 60,000 miles
- No regular maintenance required
- Replace only when failure occurs
Solenoid-Type Overdrive Relay
Signs of Failure:
- Clicking sound but no engagement
- No clicking sound when activating overdrive
- Erratic overdrive engagement
- Burning smell during operation
Service Schedule:
- Test operation every 30,000 miles
- Clean connections every 60,000 miles
- Replace if showing signs of wear at 80,000-120,000 miles
Note: These are general guidelines. Actual service intervals may vary based on vehicle make, model, and driving conditions. Always consult your vehicle's manual for specific maintenance schedules.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.