A PACCAR-branded heavy-duty transmission typically costs roughly $6,000 to $20,000 for the unit itself, with installed prices often ranging from about $12,000 to $25,000 or more depending on the model and configuration.
PACCAR transmissions are used in Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks and come in a variety of configurations, including automated manual transmissions (AMT) and fully automatic variants. Prices vary by model, whether the unit is new or remanufactured, added features, and the complexity of installation. This article explains the price landscape and how to get an exact quote for your truck.
What a PACCAR transmission is and where it’s used
PACCAR designs transmissions specifically for its heavy-duty truck platforms. These units are typically sold through the PACCAR Parts network and authorized dealers for Kenworth and Peterbilt vehicles. They come in different configurations to suit long-haul, regional, and vocational applications, and buyers can choose between new OEM units and remanufactured options.
What affects the price
Several factors determine the final price you’ll pay for a PACCAR transmission, including the model and configuration, whether the unit is new or remanufactured, installation labor, and any required accessories. The following list highlights the main price drivers.
- Model and configuration: more gears, automated features, or specialty configurations generally raise the cost.
- Condition: new OEM transmissions are typically more expensive than remanufactured or used units.
- Labor and installation: regional labor rates and job complexity can add significantly to total cost.
- Additional hardware: PTOs, adapters, wiring, cooling lines, and mounting components add to the price.
- Warranty and service packages: longer warranties or bundled service plans can influence upfront price but may reduce risk over time.
In practice, buyers should consider both the upfront purchase price and the total cost of ownership, including maintenance, fuel efficiency implications, and potential downtime.
Typical price ranges (installed)
Prices below reflect common market ranges for PACCAR transmissions, including installation by a qualified shop. Individual quotes will vary by model, condition, and local labor costs.
- Remanufactured/transmission unit: about $6,000 to $12,000
- New OEM transmission unit: about $12,000 to $20,000
- Premium or high-configuration variants: about $16,000 to $28,000+
Note: Installation labor and any required accessories can add roughly $2,000 to $6,000 (or more) to the total installed price, depending on the vehicle and shop location. Shipping and taxes may also apply.
How to get an exact quote
For an accurate price, contact your local Kenworth or Peterbilt dealer, or PACCAR Parts. Provide specifics about your truck (make, model, year, engine), the current transmission (if replacing), and whether you want a new or remanufactured unit. Ask for a written quote that broken down by unit price, labor, and any ancillary components. It’s wise to obtain multiple quotes and compare warranties and lead times before making a decision.
Summary
Pricing for a PACCAR transmission is highly variable and depends on the unit type (new vs remanufactured), configuration, and installation needs. Typical installed price ranges span from roughly $12,000 to $25,000+, with the base unit often costing between $6,000 and $20,000. Always get a formal quote from an authorized dealer or PACCAR Parts, and factor in labor, shipping, and warranty when assessing total cost. If you’re shopping on a budget, remanufactured units can offer substantial savings, but verify the warranty and compatibility with your truck.