The type of transmission is a key factor to consider when shopping for a new vehicle to drive. Four types are available: manual, automatic, continuous variable-speed, and semi-automatic. There are similarities and key differences between each one that you need to be aware of.
If you are not sure how one or the other works, it’s helpful to gain a better understanding. You can make the right choice and feel good about your decision when you learn about all four transmissions.
In this article, you will find out how the four transmission types operate and what makes each an appealing one to choose for your next vehicle.
The most obvious feature of a manual transmission is the stick shift. It is located in the center console area of the car, between the two front seats. Some people even refer to this type of transmission by the name “stick shift.” There is also a third pedal in a vehicle with a manual transmission called the clutch. It is on the far left among the other two pedals, and the driver uses his or her left foot to press it.
The gear shift has five or more gears that the driver can shift two when driving. Higher gears are necessary for higher speeds, while lower gears are for lower speeds and when the driver is slowing down. The driver must press the clutch all the way down (like when using the brake) when shifting or coming to a stop. The following are appealing aspects of manual transmission:
Automatic transmission requires no involvement from the driver to up-shift or downshift. There is no stick shift in the vehicle, and there is no clutch pedal either, as everything in this process is automatic, as the name suggests. This is the most popular transmission, with more cars having it than any other type.
People choose automatic transmission for the following reasons:
Another type of transmission is the continuously variable transmission or CVT. Instead of having fixed gears, it uses a belt and pulley system and has different gear ratios than other transmissions. Many smaller vehicles have this type of transmission, and it is becoming more common.
The following are the advantages CVT offers:
If you are interested in having a vehicle with a mixture of automatic and manual transmission elements, semi-automatic transmission is a good choice. It allows the driver to be engaged with shifting, as there are buttons and paddles on or near the steering wheel for the driver to use. There is no stick shift, and the clutch process happens automatically. Here are some benefits to this type of transmission:
You don’t need to feel stressed out about what transmission the car you want has. As you learn about these four types, you can feel comfortable using any of them. You can also decide which makes the most sense for your driving style and habits. Once you come to the showroom of Jay Hodge Ford of Morrilton in Morrilton, AR, you can shop the inventory and see which vehicles have the transmission type you want. Our sales team can assist you in any way you need, so stop by today.
