Differences between manual and automatic transmissions

It's essential to keep your car's transmission working properly whether it's a manual or an automatic. We can perform Transmission Service on your car right here in Leumeah - Call us today for a quote!

There are two main differences between an automatic and a manual transmission: A manual transmission achieves the various gear ratios needed by locking and unlocking various sets of gears to the output shaft, whilst an automatic transmission uses the same set of gears to produce the different gear ratios.

There are other differences of course. Vehicles with Automatic Transmissions do not have a clutch pedal as the process of changing gears is entirely automatic. There is also no gear stick as such in an automatic transmission vehicle. In a vehicle with manual transmission the clutch is used to disengage the gears to prevent them being damaged whilst the gear stick is used to select the desired gear before releasing the clutch to re-engage gears.

Manual transmissions need servicing but it is a less complicated task which involves replacing the fluids and/or making minor adjustments.

Automatic transmissions involve a range of parts such as a planetary gear set, a set of locking bands, a hydraulic system, clutches, and a large pump to move transmission fluid around and so regular servicing of Automatic transmissions is key to ensure maximum performance, economy and service life.

Symptoms that there are problems with your automatic transmission include:

• Fluids Leaking
• 'Check Engine' light
• Clunky transitions between gears
• Difficulty getting 'into' gear
• A whining, humming or even a slight buzzing sound

If you are experiencing any of these issues in your vehicle call us at Dufty Automotive Services in Leumeah Today!