We bought my mom a 2005 Jetta with Automatic Transmission. It has around 130k miles. It recently started dying at stop signs and traffic lights. Two independent shops have found black transmission fluid and metal, leading them to diagnose as needing a new transmission. One wants $2,500, the other $3,000 to remove current and install a used transmission. So, I'm looking to see what year models will be a straight swap of the transmission. Specifically, I found a 2002 transmission for a good price and wondered if it will swap. I just can't justify spending the full $2,500-$3,000 on a transmission on a car that's worth about $4,000-$5,000.
Thanks in advance for your advice.

 

Went ahead and put in a rebuilt transmission. Everything is working great, but am thinking about selling the car soon. What specific questions can I assist with?

 

It's in good shape now. I haven't even looked at the value yet, but would price it at lower end of fair condition market value.