This past weekend apparently the transmission fell apart! I was able to limp to my local trusted auto shop, who estimated rebuilding $3550-3900 versus replacing at $5900. I was just about to set up the 105k service, but this popped up just before I made the call. I have a buddy who is a service manager at the local Acura dealership and he recommended to "abandon ship" as the 105k service has not been done (especially the timing belt) . Any thoughts?

 

I had a 4AT go out on my old 97 Honda Accord about 10 years ago. I was able to find a replacement on the internet that was pulled from another vehicle and shipped to the repair shop for installation. I paid about $800 for the 4AT and $250 for the installation for a use tranny with about 40,000 miles on it.

Even at $4000 to rebuild the tranny, it still be cheaper than a 3-4 years worth of car payments (assuming nothing else is wrong with the X). Besides, you will get next to nothing if you try to sell or trade.

 

I would shop around to see what your absolute cheapest option is, might be worth it to put in a used transmission. 105k is fairly low miles too, so the rest of the car should hold up well for a while (many, many factors could change this, however). Really, it comes down to your budget.