Collinsville, IL’s Transmission Type Guide

Auto, Manual: What Are The Different Types of Transmissions?

Transmissions are an important part of the drivetrain. Without the transmission, there isn’t a way that the vehicle would move. When transmissions were first invented, they were all manually operated. Over time, the technology has been improved.

In 1940, Oldsmobile introduced the automatic transmission to the automotive consumer. This was a big development for consumers since it gave them a choice in the transmission style. Since that time, there have been many improvements in transmissions, but there are still only two primary types.

A Choice For Consumers

Consumers who are purchasing a vehicle will notice that the majority of vehicles on the market today are automatic transmissions. Some people don’t even know how to drive a manual. Some people claim that manual transmissions don’t take as much gas as automatic transmissions, so this is something that might appeal to some people. Others prefer the ease of use of the automatic.

Subtypes of Transmissions

There are many different subtypes of transmissions that fall under either the automatic or manual categories. The most common type that most people will encounter is the conventional automatic transmission. This is a hydraulically and electronically controlled that comes with several gears, usually four to eight speeds plus reverse and neutral.

Another type is a dual clutch automated manual transmission. This type has two gear shafts that each have a separate clutch. One clutch is for even numbered gears and the other is for odd numbered gears. This is the type of transmission that is in a vehicle with a Ford PowerShift transmission.

An automated manual transmission is something akin to a hybrid of the two types. It operates automatically but can also be shifted manually. Some drivers prefer this option since they can operate the vehicle based on what they need at the time.Another differentiation for transmissions is that some are electronic and others are mechanical. You can typically expect a smoother shift if you have an electronic transmission, but a rougher one if your vehicle has a mechanical one.Collinsville, IL residents who are hunting for a vehicle should find out all they can about the transmission in the vehicles they are considering. This can have a big impact on the performance of the vehicle. It can also have an impact on the cost of upkeep and repair. As always, you can consult Marshall’s experts for all your transmission questions and needs