take it to a reputable mechanic that can fix the problem the 1st time and the 1st time only if you already took it 5 times you're taking it to the wrong place
if the # is not printed on top of the eng somewhere .. there is usually stickers on the hood or core support area that will show you or you can call the dealer give them the vin # and ask them
most ins companys don't use kelly blue book they use a diff company that rantes the entire vehi and compars it to other vehis in the market that are in the same condition as yours and that gets them an avg value
it sounds like a bad tranny if its an 08 it should have warranty take it to the dealer ! oh wait there isn't any .. just kidding im sure there is a dealer you can take it to
no special tools just regular sockets and wrenches. a couple of jacks and some jack stands and you'll be ok if you have the slightest idea how to do it if not leave it to a profesional.