I called around to so many places trying to find a transmission for my 2006 Nissan Sentra, and everywhere I called was quoting me $4,000 or more. And being told twice that even putting a transmission was a bad idea because my car isn't worth enough to invest into it (completely out of touch comment) I was honestly starting to lose hope. As a last attempt, I called Gator Automotive, and they quoted me around $1,300 for a remanufactured transmission including the torque converter, labor, and a warranty. I was in total disbelief.
Because the price was so different from everything else I had been told, I had a lot of questions. Joshua took the time to talk with me and explain where the transmission came from, how the warranty worked, and just the overall mission behind why they try to keep their prices reasonable and accessible. It was honestly refreshing and gave me a lot of trust in them right away.
I also asked them to replace a couple of other parts while they were doing the repair. I dropped my car off Monday before they closed, and it was ready by Thursday afternoon. Super quick.
Thursday morning they called to let me know my CV axles were completely shot. They told me they would waive the labor and only charge for the parts, which would have added about $300. I comically declined and requested them to put the CV axles back on 😅 because I didn’t have the extra money at the moment. About an hour later I got a text saying the CV axles were on them. When I picked up my car, he explained how bad they were and said he just couldn’t let me drive around like that. It's rare to find a mechanic who not only takes pride in their work but appreciates their customers enough to invest in them.
Being able to afford a major repair took the weight of uncertainty off of my shoulders. It sounds dramatic but every shudder, slip and delayed engagement in reverse felt like grief.
This car has taken my family everywhere—from my mom dropping me off at high school, to me driving myself to college, and now taking my own kids to school. It’s also carried me back and forth to the families I visit for work. This affordable repair has done more for me then get me back on the road in the car I love.
They truly helped me more than they probably realize. I will never stop singing their praise.