Automatic Transmission Shift Lever Bushing Repair

Stop Dealing with Loose, Unstable Shifting - Get It Fixed Right!

Is your vehicle's shifter feeling loose or imprecise Don't wait until it becomes a major problem. Ourcertified mechanicsspecialize in transmission shift lever bushing repair for all makes and models.

Industry-leading24-month/24,000-mile warranty
ASE-certified transmission specialists
Same-day service available
All makes and models serviced

Automatic Transmission Shift Lever Bushing Repair Costs

Here's a breakdown of typical repair costs for different shift lever bushing issues:

Basic Bushing Replacement

Labor Time: 1-2 hours
Parts Cost: $10-30
Labor Cost: $125-250
Total Estimated Cost: $135-280

Shift Lever Assembly Replacement

Labor Time: 2-3 hours
Parts Cost: $50-150
Labor Cost: $250-375
Total Estimated Cost: $300-525

Complete Shifter Mechanism Overhaul

Labor Time: 3-4 hours
Parts Cost: $150-300
Labor Cost: $375-500
Total Estimated Cost: $525-800

Note:These are estimated costs and may vary depending on:

  • Vehicle make and model
  • Parts availability
  • Additional repairs needed
  • Severity of wear or damage

All estimates are based on our standard labor rate of $125/hour. Please contact us for a precise quote specific to your vehicle.

Automatic Transmission Shift Lever Bushing Repair Procedures

Column Shift Bushing Repair

Time Required:1-2 hours

Tools Needed:Basic hand tools, trim removal tools, replacement bushing

Steps:

  1. Remove lower steering column cover by removing mounting screws
  2. Disconnect shift indicator cable if present
  3. Remove shift lever retaining pin or clip
  4. Extract worn bushing using needle-nose pliers or bushing removal tool
  5. Clean mounting area thoroughly
  6. Install new bushing, ensuring proper orientation
  7. Reinstall shift lever and retaining hardware
  8. Reconnect shift indicator cable
  9. Replace column covers
  10. Test shifting through all gears

Floor Shift Bushing Repair

Time Required:30-60 minutes

Tools Needed:Basic hand tools, trim removal tools, replacement bushing

Steps:

  1. Remove shift knob (usually unscrews or has hidden release)
  2. Remove center console trim pieces
  3. Locate shift lever base assembly
  4. Remove retaining clips or bolts securing shifter assembly
  5. Remove old bushing from shift lever base
  6. Clean mounting surface thoroughly
  7. Install new bushing into shift lever base
  8. Reassemble shifter mechanism
  9. Reinstall console trim pieces
  10. Reattach shift knob
  11. Verify proper shifting operation

Cable Shift Bushing Repair

Time Required:2-3 hours

Tools Needed:Basic hand tools, transmission jack, replacement bushings

Steps:

  1. Raise vehicle on lift or secure with jack stands
  2. Locate transmission shift cable connection points
  3. Remove heat shields or covers if necessary
  4. Disconnect cable ends from transmission and shifter
  5. Remove old bushings from cable ends
  6. Install new bushings on both cable ends
  7. Reconnect cables to transmission and shifter
  8. Verify proper cable routing and clearance
  9. Replace any removed shields or covers
  10. Lower vehicle
  11. Adjust shift linkage if necessary
  12. Test shift operation through all gears

Important Notes:

  • Always refer to vehicle-specific repair manual for exact procedures
  • Ensure proper transmission gear alignment during reassembly
  • Replace any damaged clips or fasteners during repair
  • Consider replacing all related bushings while system is disassembled

Note: These are general repair procedures. Specific vehicles may require additional or different steps. Professional installation is recommended if you're unsure about performing these repairs.

Understanding Automatic Transmission Shift Lever Bushings

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Common Failure Symptoms of Automatic Transmission Shift Lever Bushings

Automatic Transmission Shift Lever Bushing: Signs of Failure and Service Information

Column Shift Lever Bushing

  • Loose or sloppy feeling when moving shifter
  • Difficulty engaging intended gear
  • Grinding or clicking noise when shifting
  • Visible wear or deterioration of the bushing material

No specific service interval; replace when wear is detected. Typically lasts 80,000-120,000 miles depending on usage.

Floor Shift Lever Bushing

  • Excessive play in the shifter movement
  • Imprecise gear selection
  • Rattling noise from shifter assembly
  • Shifter feels loose at the base

Inspect during regular maintenance. Usually requires replacement between 100,000-150,000 miles. More frequent replacement may be needed in vehicles with heavy use.

Cable Shift Lever Bushing

  • Delayed gear engagement
  • Mushy or vague shifting feel
  • Unable to properly align gear indicator
  • Transmission may not shift into intended gear

Should be inspected every 60,000 miles. Replacement typically needed between 80,000-120,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and vehicle usage.

Note: These are general guidelines. Actual service intervals and wear patterns 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, GrandvilleKentwood, 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.

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