Of all the important questions to address when you shop for a car, perhaps you haven’t thought much about what type of transmission you prefer. However, this is a significant issue, as each transmission type is a little different from the next. Four types of transmissions are available, and there are advantages to each one.
As you shop, consider how each one works and why it might fit your driving style and preferences the most. If you need expert assistance, the team at Jay Hodge Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM can help you see which one you should look for.
As you shop for a vehicle, you will see an automatic transmission in more vehicles than any other type. A vehicle with this transmission will change gears by itself with no intervention from the driver. The car will sense as it speeds up and then automatically change gears.
You’ll like this type of transmission for the following reasons:
Manual transmission, which is the opposite of automatic transmission, uses a clutch pedal and stick shift. The driver must use both when changing from one gear to the next. The clutch pedal is on the floor next to the brake and accelerator, while the stick shift is between the seats in the center console area. Most manual transmission cars have five or more gears, with the first gear in the top left of the stick shift. As the vehicle speeds up, the driver will need to shift to a higher gear. Conversely, as it slows down, it’s necessary to downshift to a lower gear. The driver needs to press down on the clutch to slow down the vehicle.
Here are some advantages of manual transmission:
A continuously variable-speed transmission, shortened to CVT, has some key differences from other transmission types. Instead of using fixed gears, it uses a belt and pulley system. There are also different gear ratios than you will find with manual or automatic transmission.
Benefits of a CVT include:
A semi-automatic transmission is a good choice if you want an easy transmission to learn but still like some engagement with the car. While you will not use a stick shift and clutch pedal with a semi-automatic transmission, you can shift gears manually by using buttons or paddles on or near the steering wheel. The number of speeds will vary from model to model.
Here are some advantages of this type:
These four transmission types each have their place and can fit a person’s driving style. Consider each one and which is right for you. If you need some guidance, let the team at Jay Hodge Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM in Hugo, OK, give you a hand. Stop by the dealership today and bring home a new model.