Car Transmission: The Ultimate Guide

Are you considering buying a car? If yes, then one of the decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go for an automatic transmission or a manual transmission. While automatic car transmission has become popular in recent years, some drivers still prefer the engagement and control of a manual transmission. In this blog, we’ll dig deeper into car transmission, what it is, how it works, and the advantages and disadvantages of manual and automatic transmission. Keep reading to learn more!

Key Takeaways:

• In a manual transmission, you are responsible for shifting the gears, while in a car with automatic transmission, the vehicle does the shifting for you.
• Regularly changing your transmission fluid is crucial for keeping your vehicle running smoothly and avoiding expensive repairs.
• Choose the transmission type that fits your needs and preferences.

What Is Car Transmission?

One of the most complex components in your car is the transmission. A car transmission is a metal case that houses a number of gears, explaining its nickname, gearbox. Typically, it takes power from the engine and delivers it to the wheels to help power your car. In addition, it’s responsible for ensuring that the right amount of power goes to the wheels so the car can operate at a given speed.

Every gear operates within a specific ratio to ensure the engine and wheels don’t spin at the same speed. For instance, when you take off from a stop, your car uses a lower gear ratio to get it moving using more power and less speed. On the other hand, your transmission uses a higher gear ratio to move the car at higher speeds while keeping the RPMs at a low level.

Manual Transmission vs. Automatic Car Transmission

There are mainly two types of car transmission:

Manual Car Transmission

Also known as the standard transmission or manual gearbox, a manual transmission is a type of transmission used in vehicles that require the driver to manually shift gears by using a gear shifter and clutch. In a manual transmission, you’ll have full control over the car’s gears, allowing you to control the torque and speed of the car. Typically, a manual transmission system comprises different aspects, including the clutch, gear shifter, flywheel, clutch disc, and pressure plate. These components work together to transfer power from the engine of the wheels to the wheels of the car.

Pros of Manual Car Transmission

• Lower purchase price
• Fuel efficient
• Superior acceleration- favored by performance and race car drivers
• Less expensive to service
• Most drivers like the feeling of being in control

Cons of Manual Transmission

• Drivers must coordinate the clutch, shifting, and gas
• It requires practice to learn how to use
• Lower resale value
• It can be challenging to drive in stop-and-go traffic

Automatic Transmission

While you, the driver, play an active role in operating a car with a manual transmission, in an automatic transmission, you simply select D on the shifter, and the vehicle does all the hard work. Then, using fluid pressure, the car automatically changes the gear on its own. The heart of an automatic transmission is the planetary set, which creates the different gear ratios that the transmission uses.

The automatic transmission fluid offers the necessary pressure to activate the clutches and bands that determine what gear the car should be in. As such, the fluid helps drive the car as well as cools and lubricates the moving parts of the transmission. The torque converter is attached to the drivetrain (acts as a clutch on a manual transmission). The fluid unlocks and locates the planetary gears to shift between gear ratios.

Pros of Automatic Car Transmission

• Easy to use
• Widely available
• Higher resale value
• Excellent in stop-and-go traffic
• Good for beginners

Cons of Automatic Car Transmission

• Higher repair costs
• Higher purchasing price than manual
• Historically, less fuel efficient than manual- but this gap is closing fast!

Car Transmission Fluid

One of the most crucial components of a car is the transmission, and its fluid keeps it lubricated and working properly. Transmission fluid is oil that lubricates moving parts of your car’s transmission, keeping it working smoothly. Without transmission fluid, your transmission would overheat, wear out faster, and ultimately break down.

• How Often Should You Change Your Transmission Fluid?

How often you change your transmission fluid depends on your vehicle’s make and model, transmission type, and driving habits. Typically, car manufacturers recommend changing transmission fluid after every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. But some cars might require more frequent changes, such as after every 15,000 miles. For instance, if you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic or tow heavy loads, your transmission might need more frequent fluid changes. Besides, if you notice any issues with the transmission, such as delayed gears or slipping gears, it indicates that you should possibly have your transmission fluid checked and changed.

• How to Check Your Transmission Fluid

Regularly checking the fluid level is vital to maintaining the car’s transmission. To check the transmission fluid level:

• Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine.
• Locate the transmission dipstick- often near the back of the engine bay.
• Wipe the dipstick clean with a rag, insert it back into the transmission, and pull out.
• Check the fluid level on the dipstick- the fluid level should be within the max or full marks.
• If the fluid level is low, add more fluid, and ensure that you use the correct type of transmission fluid specified in the car owner’s manual.

Want to Learn More? Call or Visit Our Dealership Today!

While the transmission type you get in your next car comes down to preference, choose the one that fits your needs. For example, automatic car transmission allows for easy maneuvering through stop-and-go traffic. But if performance and the driving experience matter to you, you may need to consider a manual car transmission. To learn more about car transmissions and which fits your needs and preferences, visit or call our dealership today!

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