- Manual transmission (MT)
- Automatic transmission (AT)
- Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- Automated manual transmission (AMT)
- Semi-automatic and dual-clutch transmissions (DCT)
A car’s transmission is one of the major deciding factors when buying a car. Although most people now prefer automatic transmission due to the ease of learning and driving, many still prefer manual vehicles. That said, manual and automatic are broader categories and other car transmission types fall within or even somewhere between these categories.
Before we discuss the common types of car transmission, let’s take a quick overview of what transmission does to better understand why it is such an important consideration.
Importance of Choosing the Right Transmission
Automotive transmission is the set of components responsible for transmitting the force produced by the engine to the wheels. The system consists of a clutch, gearbox, transmission shaft, universal joints, reduction of the driving axle, differential, transmission shafts and shaft end. Another important function is to regulate the torque i.e. the force that goes to the wheels through the gears. A functional transmission will ensure proper working of the car systems as a result you won’t face issues like the car won’t go into gear or get stuck in park mode or neutral.
To an extent, a car’s transmission can affect a car’s performance and economy like it affects the driving experience. While manual gives more control and is easier to maintain, automatic transmission is convenient. Here is all you need to know about the maintenance of automatic transmission.
Car Transmission Types
Generally, the most used car automotive transmission types are manual and automatic. However, there are a few other types you might come across:
- Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- Automated manual transmission (AM)
- Semi-automatic double-clutch transmission
For different car transmissions, there are different driving modes.
Manual Transmission (MT)
Manual Transmission is the oldest, cheapest transmission model. It is also considered the best for those who drive on different terrains because gear changes and clutch are in the driver’s control.
The driver makes the change manually when the speed reaches a high value or when more torque is required on the wheels. Since the manual transmission is the simplest and the oldest type of transmission, it requires less maintenance and can last longer without needing expensive repairs.
Automatic Transmission (AT)
Automatic car transmission differs from manual transmission as it does not require the driver’s intervention to shift gears, which results in greater comfort. The automatic transmission in a car helps drivers focus on the road instead of the gears, making it suitable for new learners.
Car automatic transmission has the autonomy to detect a relationship between engine speed and rotation, and shifts gears accordingly. Also, the automatic transmission uses planetary gears that produce different gear ratios. If you are looking to buy used cars in Dubai with automatic transmission, check the listings of the following brands at dubizzle.
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
This type of transmission offers a smooth and comfortable driving experience while saving fuel. Instead of gears, the system works with belts and pulleys controlled by an onboard computer. As there are no fixed gear ratios like AT, it gauges the foot pressure on the accelerator, and the electronics decide which is the best belt position for the pulleys according to the engine speed. This way the engine runs more evenly and efficiently without burning too much fuel.
Nissan is the forerunner in CVT and its new models are also equipped with third-generation XTRONIC Transmission. Potential buyers can get their hands on second hand Nissan in Dubai, available on dubizzle.
Automated Manual Transmission (AMT)
Also called sequential or clutchless manual transmission, AMT works like a manual but doesn’t require the driver to control the clutch. There is a hydraulic actuator system that controls the clutch as the driver selects the gear. The function is controlled by an Electronic Control Unit with a pre-programmed shift pattern. This unit controls the actuators that synchronise the gears and clutch.
The disadvantage of an automatic transmission is the longer response time it takes during gear changes. This slow response usually goes unnoticed by most drivers traversing the city but may be quite noticeable for someone who has driven higher performance sports cars.
Semi-Automatic and Dual-Clutch Transmissions (DCT)
The double-clutch transmission (DCT) is a mix of automatic and manual transmission. It has two clutches (internal and external), which allow gear changes with almost no loss of engine speed, making the changes smoother without compromising performance. While it is a highly efficient system, its complex mechanics raise the purchase and maintenance price. For instance, BMW uses dual-clutch transmission in their performance M cars for sharp shifts. Check dubizzle’s listings if you are looking to buy a used BMW in Dubai.
Here we conclude all about car transmissions type. To make your automotive transmission work in the long run you must know the tips for automatic transmission care and maintenance. For instance, if you are using manual transmission, change the fluid between every 30,000 to 60,000 miles; while in automatic car transmission it is advised to change the fluid between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. If your car transmission is failing, follow this guide.
Stay tuned and get all the details about the UAE’s automotive industry via our car blog.
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