Types Of Automatic Transmissions And Related ATF Suggestions

A transmission is a mechanical device that transmits power from one part of a machine to another. Find out how automatic transmissions work, the various transmission fluids, and which type of transmission fluid is good for your car. The automatic transmission is a brilliant invention that has been the choice for performance and efficiency. It started out as just another gear changing mechanism, but years of development have made it what you see today. With the trend of quicker gear shifts, several manufacturers have now dropped manual transmissions as an option for performance vehicles. Modern computers and sensors are able to use a variety of data, such as speedometer readings, in order to optimize up shifts or down shifts with less power being applied by means that prioritize fuel efficiency over anything else.

What Types Of Automatic Transmissions Are There?

They come in many varieties, each with its own strengths and weaknesses that can affect performance or efficiency for drivers depending on how they use their transmission during certain types of driving conditions. Let’s take an unbiased look at what these do so you know if this type might work best for you.

Traditional Automatic Transmission

More commonly known as an automatic transmission, we can find this widely used gear coupling system in almost every car. It uses hydraulic fluid or torque converter to handle the job of changing gears instead of using a clutch like other types of vehicles did before them; however, it does so with help from our ECU (engine control unit). The units connected directly into these mechanisms allow for smooth and precise engine management that is vital when driving.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

A continuously variable transmission, or CVT for short, is a type of automatic gearbox that allows you to change gears at will. Using belts or pulleys instead of traditional steel gears, a continuously variable transmission allows for seamless gear shifting with various ratios dependent on engine speed and RPM. This is good as it can maximize fuel efficiency and engine life.

Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT)

Dual-clutch transmissions are a hybrid of automatic and manual transmissions. The two separate shafts allow seamless gear shifting. A dual-clutch transmission has no torque converter. It uses two separate shafts with their own clutches for gear changing. Shifting to higher or lower gears are seamless and quick.

DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox)

Using a similar setup to dual-clutch transmissions, direct shift gearboxes (DSG) use two clutches that disengage alternately when changing gears. This offers fast shifting and smoother acceleration with fuel efficiency surpassing manual transmission systems. Modern DSGs are wet transmissions, so expect tons of service unless fluids are replaced on schedule – it’s easy if and we would be happy to help.

Tiptronic Transmission

A tiptronic transmission is a type of automatic gearbox that can be found in some performance or sport-oriented vehicles. The function, design and use are like those on manual transmissions. however, they do not have the typical clutch pedal, which replaces it with an inner torque converter mechanism for smooth shifting between gears.

Types Of ATF’s That We Recommend.

ATF Fluids

Automatic transmission fluid is a necessary component of any car with an automatic or manual gearbox. Many of these transmissions are wet transmissions, so they will have to get an ATF additive put in or replaced in order to ensure optimal performance and longevity. To find out which one spec is right for your car is relatively easy and can be found inside the car manual or even online with ease. We recommend using LIQUI MOLY because of the effectiveness it has in prolonging transmission life and enhancing performance.

Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid (CVT Fluid)

More and more modern vehicles are coming with highly advanced technology, which is requiring the use of CVT fluid in their transmissions. The use or non-use can have dire consequences for your vehicle’s operation so it pays off if you know what the right intervals for replacing the fluids are. Choosing the correct transmission fluid is critical to insuring the maximum performance and fuel economy from your car. Always check your owner’s manual for the type of fluid recommended for your vehicle by the manufacturer. Most transmission fluids are blended with synthetic base oils to offer better performance, with improved resistance to heat, cold, oxidation, friction, and shearing. Once you’ve figured out which type of transmission fluid is right for your vehicle, check out our online shop for the best quality ones.