A recon in the UK would cost £1K excluding fitting and you only get 12 months warranty. Thats more than mine is worth too. I've replaced mine twice with used units. The one thats in now cost £80 and its going strong. But its a lottery and you might want to consider 'going manual'. If so, there are some great write-ups on here. If you are in a gambling mood and decide to swap for another auto then I may be able give you some hints. Just one question - did the specialist give you the fault code from the tranny?