Automatic transmission was invented to make driving hassle-free for the drivers. It is now more preferred over manual transmission that requires the clutch to be pressed for each shift throughout the drive. Despite the ease and convenience, there are arguments that automatic transmission isn’t as satisfying as a manual transmission. Some even say that it’s not as efficient. The truth is that there are different types of automatic transmission, each with different mechanisms and a distinct set of pros and cons.
Traditional Automatic / Torque Converter
There was a time when a torque converter was the only choice available in the automatic segment. In a traditional automatic transmission, there is a fluid called a torque converter present in the gearbox. This converter connects the gearbox and the engine. It further makes the movement of the clutch smooth so that there is no friction or wear out. The converter is also capable of handling more power.
The initial torque converters had some shortcomings that no longer exist in modern automatic transmissions. The torque converter automatic transmissions that are available now are more efficient and offer smooth shifts.
To minimize the losses during the transmissions, there is a mechanical lock that engages when the gearbox and engines are working at the same speed. With up to eight gear options available, advanced auto boxes ensure great economy and performance. You can easily find these torque converters in any car ranging from small to luxurious ones. Overall, modern torque converter transmissions have very few disadvantages.
Dual Clutch
The dual clutch transmission works with the support of two automatic clutch machines. While one machine deals with the gears in odd numbers, the other one deals with the gears in even numbers. The dual-clutch was first introduced by Volkswagen in the Golf R 32 in 2003.
Since then, the Volkswagen group started using the dual-clutch in most cars from supercars to superminis. Today, many other automobile manufacturers are incorporating a dual-clutch box in their vehicles.
These boxes are highly efficient and can take huge loads. Even the power passing between these clutches does not face any losses when the gears are switched. These transmissions are smooth and offer good performance and economy. In some cases, they do even better than manual transmissions. However, the dual transmission does run into problems when going from stationary to very slow speed. Such as a stop-start situation or when you are crossing a roundabout at a very slow speed.
Check out listings of used cars that have dual transmission in some variants.
- Buy used 2020 Mercedes Benz CLA in the UAE
- Second hand 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera in the UAE
- Used 2020 Audi S3 available for sale in the UAE
Continuously Variable Transmission or CVT
This is one of the most interesting transmission types because it works very differently than the usual gear and clutch mechanism. The CVT transmission has many pros and cons. However, it is used by many manufacturers like Honda and Nissan, CVT can offer an infinite range of gear ratios.
Take a look at the following cars in the UAE that are equipped with CVT gear transmission:
- Used Honda City for sale in the UAE
- Second hand Honda HR-V for sale in the UAE
- Second hand Nissan Micra for sale in the UAE
- Used Nissan Sentra for sale in the UAE
This enables the engine to attain fuel efficiency and increase performance. Most CVTs use a v-shape between the two cone-shaped gears. This changes the cones’ diameter and allows the vehicle to select its ratio as it moves.
There are some CVTs with planetary gears, pivoting wheels, and rollers in a cone shape. These gearboxes suffer sudden loss while accelerating, however, the engine’s efficiency to manage speed is remarkable.
Automatic Manual
Also known as clutchless manual, this type of transmission is not very common but can still be found in Fiat 500 and other small cars. This transmission is cheap and its disadvantages outweigh the advantages. Automatic manual transmissions are efficient and simple; however, they do not live up to the expectations and cause jerks while changing gears.
Advantages of Vehicle with an Automatic Transmission
When opting for a car, many owners are skeptical about manual and automatic transmissions. We have listed down a few benefits that an automatic transmission offer to the everyday driver:
Ease
Automatic transmissions are easier to use as compared to manual ones. Most modern vehicles have a hydraulic planetary automatic transmission that is capable of switching between the gears on its own. In a manual transmission, this task has to be performed by the driver. Automatic transmissions use transmission fluid for increasing or decreasing gear ratios. They also have an oil pump that controls the clutches in a planetary gear pattern by pressurizing the fluid. This makes driving easy and drivers do not have to worry about what gear they are driving in.
Safety
Automatic cars are safe to drive as compared to manual cars. In a manual car, your one hand and leg are always engaged while driving. This is not the case when it comes to automatic cars because the gears are switched on their own. Therefore, you can easily drive with both hands on the steering wheel and you do not even have to worry about changing gears every now and then.
Environment Friendly
Although manual transmission cars give you more control over an engine’s exertions, automatic transmission cars are fuel-efficient.
Disadvantages of Automatic Transmission
Lack Control
In an automatic transmission, the car loses a certain degree of control. Some drivers prefer manual transmission over automatic one as they have more control of gear.
Costly Repairs
Automatic transmissions are comparatively more expensive than their manual counterparts. Maintenance of automatic transmission cars costs mainly for transmission and fuel. However, when it comes to selling your automatic car, you can easily get buyers as these cars have high demand and most people know how to drive them. You can buy and sell both manual and automatic used cars in the UAE on dubizzle.
Stay tuned to the UAE’s top auto blog for more informational posts.
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