I have 2014 lr4 with 88k. Owned 5yrs. Got transmission fault and took to specialist. Won't engage gears. Seems that the transmission valve body is bad and cost to replace is 6k+. My question is can you replace the whole thing with a used transmission that comes with valve body attached? I'm being told that you can't bc won't be able to program correctly. Is that correct? Used transmission with its valve body attached is like $1600 and I was hoping to go that route.

 

Used trans is always a gamble, entire unit rebuilt and installed here is $8500.

if you go used, you will need to switch the Mechatronics from your old trans to the donor. It’s the black plastic assembly in between the valve body and trans.

 

Are they “a specialist” because they charge too much?
A transmission valve body is transferable… but I suggest, if you have a ZF transmission service center near you, get another inspection and quote. The last time I have my valve body (on a Jag) overhauled, it solved all my problems. And it was not expensive.