I've gotten word from the dealer that my 2nd gear blocking ring is damaged. they want to sell me a $3200 transmission. is this ridiculous or expected? what are my real options?

 

Real options are you can get a new one from malloy Mazda in Woodbridge Va for about 1,000 less.

 

It is both expected and ridiculous!
Have you thought about taking the transmission to an expert to have it repaired instead of replaced? I suspect your dealer is clueless and justs wants to replace it. I think you can have the transmission repaired (if you are talking replacement of a blocking ring) for $500-$1000. Look for a reputable transmission shop in your area.
-MP

 

well, hopefully they can do it since the transmission is fully out of the car and disassmbled right now. to take it to a transmission shop, I would have to have it put back together, then throw it in the back of a pickup I don't own... and so on. but, if the dealer proves to be incompentent (imagine that!), I'll find a way. thanks for the info.