Nissan Repair: 1997 Nissan Altima Transmission Issue, nissan altima, transmission clutches

Question
I have a 1997 Nissan Altima with 109K miles, which seems to have some transmission issue. It doesn't shift smoothly as expected especially when cold and on uphill slopes. A local transmission mechanic looked at it and concluded this is mostly an internal transmission problem. I was told that the problem was a bad "pump and Torque Converter" after dismanting the transmission from car.

My question is: If these are the only parts needing replacement to fix the issue, does this require  "transmission rebuild"? I was told that just torque converter and pump cannot be replaced without replacing "other" parts provided in the "kit" through rebuild and I am being charged ~2000 for fixing this. Does the diagnosis and repair cost sound reasonable?

Thanks!


Answer
Bantu,

I would go with the complete rebuild. When the torque converter and pump fail the rest of the transmission (clutches and bands) wear.  So, it is best to have all the items refreshed so you do not have to go through this for another 100,000 miles.  It is a good investment and a reasonable price.  The average is $2500 bucks for the job.  So, I think you are saving $500...