Regarding car transmissions, most people only know about two types: manual and automatic. However, the third type of transmission, CVT, is becoming more popular.
In this article, Car Deal Canada discusses all three types of transmissions and compares them. We will also explain the components of each transmission and what they do.
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What is a car transmission?
A car transmission is a gears system that helps change a vehicle’s speed and torque. The three main types of transmissions are manual, automatic, and CVT.
Every car has a transmission, one of the most important parts of the car. The transmission helps to transfer power from the engine to the wheels.
Components of a Transmission
To know how a transmission works, it is important to understand its components. The three main parts of a car transmission are the clutch, gearbox, and differential. Let’s go into more detail about each component.
The clutch
The clutch is located between the engine and the gearbox. It helps to connect and disconnect the engine from the gearbox. The clutch pedal is usually found on the left side of the driver’s seat in a manual car.
In most cases, the clutch is a disk pushed by a spring. The pressure plate pushes the disk against the flywheel, which is connected to the engine. When the clutch pedal is pressed, it disengages the pressure plate and breaks the connection between the engine and gearbox.
The gearbox
You can think of the gearbox as the transmission’s brain. It is responsible for changing the gears based on the car’s speed. The gearbox is usually located under the hood, towards the back of the engine.
Cars with automatic transmissions have a gearbox that is controlled by a computer. The computer tells the gearbox when to shift gears based on the car’s speed and how hard you are accelerating.
The differential
The differential is located between the wheels and helps them turn at different speeds. When you turn a corner, the inside wheel needs to turn slower than the outside wheel. The differential helps to make this happen.
The differential is made up of gears that are connected. When one gear turns, the other gear turns in the opposite direction. This helps transfer power from the engine to the wheels while allowing them to turn at different speeds.
Types of Transmissions
Now that we know the basics of transmissions let’s discuss the three main types: manual, automatic, and CVT. Let’s go over the general descriptions of each:
Manual Transmission
A manual transmission is the most common type of transmission. In a manual car, you use the clutch pedal to change gears. The gearshift is usually located on the center console between the driver’s seat and the passenger’s seat.
Automatic Transmission
An automatic transmission is the second most common type of transmission. In an automatic car, you do not use the clutch pedal. The gearshift is usually located on the center console between the driver’s seat and the passenger’s seat.
The main difference between a manual and automatic transmission is that an automatic transmission has a computer that controls when the gears are shifted. In a manual car, you control when the gears are shifted.
CVT Transmission
A CVT (continuously variable transmission) is a newer type of transmission. CVTs are becoming more popular because they offer better fuel economy than other transmissions.
A CVT transmission does not have gears like a manual or automatic transmission. Instead, it uses two pulleys that are connected by a belt. The pulleys are connected to the engine and wheels.
The belt helps to change the gear ratio between the engine and wheels. This allows the car to always be in the optimal gear for the current speed.
Comparing Transmissions
Now that we’ve gone over the basics of each type of transmission, let’s compare them and explore the pros and cons of each.
Manual vs. Automatic
Manual transmissions are usually less expensive than automatic transmissions. They also tend to get better gas mileage.
The main advantage of an automatic transmission is that it is easier to use than a manual transmission. You do not have to worry about shifting gears yourself.
Manual vs. CVT
Manual transmissions are usually less expensive than CVTs. They also tend to get better gas mileage.
Automatic vs. CVT
Regarding comparisons, it’s usually best to compare automatic transmissions with CVTs. The main difference between the two is that a CVT does not have gears. This means that a CVT can provide better fuel economy.
The main advantage of an automatic transmission is that it is easier to use than a CVT. There is no need to worry about shifting gears yourself.
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When to Replace Transmission Fluid?
The general rule of thumb is to replace your transmission fluid every 30,000 miles. However, it’s best to consult your car’s owner’s manual or your dealer for the specified interval.
You may need to replace your transmission fluid sooner if you notice that your car is shifting gears less smoothly. This could signify that your transmission fluid is dirty and needs to be replaced.
Do you check the transmission fluid while the car is running?
No, you should never check the transmission fluid while the car runs. The best way to check the transmission fluid is to park the car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
Then, open the hood and locate the dipstick. Once you’ve located the dipstick, pull it out and wipe it clean with a rag. Insert the dipstick back into the transmission and pull it out again. This time, check to see where the fluid level is on the dipstick.
If the fluid level is low, you will need to add more transmission fluid. You can do this by adding transmission fluid to the dipstick tube. Once you’ve added the appropriate amount of transmission fluid, recheck the level and add more if necessary.
Does an electric car have a transmission?
The answer to this question is a bit complicated. Electric cars do have transmissions, but they are very different from the transmissions found in gasoline cars.
The transmission in an electric car is used to control the amount of torque that is sent to the wheels. The transmission does this by controlling the speed of the motor.
Will a transmission flush hurt my car?
A transmission flush is when the old fluid is drained from the transmission and new fluid is added. This helps to get rid of any dirt or debris that may be in the fluid.
Transmission flushes are generally considered to be a good idea. However, you should consult your car’s owner’s manual before doing one.
Some carmakers do not recommend transmission flushes because they can cause damage to the transmission. Check your owner’s manual to see if a transmission flush is right for your car.
What are the symptoms of a bad transmission?
Several symptoms of a bad transmission can include:
- The car hesitates before shifting gears
- The car makes a grinding noise when shifting gears
- The car will not go into reverse
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to take your car to a mechanic and have them check the transmission. Check out the 9 common car problems you should inspect for more.
Conclusion
We hope that this article has helped you understand what a car transmission is and the available types. Now that you know the basics, you can make a more informed decision when purchasing a new car.
