6 Things to Know About Your Car’s Transmission | Consumer Reports
Your car’s transmission is a complex piece of machinery that plays a vital role in getting you from point A to point B. But how much do you really know about it? Here are six things you should know about your car’s transmission:
1. What is a transmission?
A transmission is a device that transfers power from the engine to the wheels. It does this by changing the speed and torque of the engine’s output, allowing the car to accelerate, decelerate, and change direction.
2. What are the different types of transmissions?
There are two main types of transmissions: manual and automatic. Manual transmissions require the driver to shift gears manually, while automatic transmissions do it automatically.
Manual transmissions are typically found in sports cars and other high-performance vehicles, while automatic transmissions are more common in everyday passenger cars.
3. How does a transmission work?
A transmission works by using a series of gears to change the speed and torque of the engine’s output. The gears are arranged in a specific order, and the transmission uses a clutch or torque converter to engage the appropriate gears.
When the driver shifts gears, the transmission moves the gears into the correct position to change the speed and torque of the engine’s output.
4. What are the symptoms of a bad transmission?
There are a number of symptoms that can indicate a problem with your car’s transmission. These include:
- Difficulty shifting gears
- Slipping gears
- Grinding noises when shifting gears
- Leaking transmission fluid
- Burning smell
5. What causes transmission problems?
There are a number of things that can cause transmission problems, including:
- Low transmission fluid
- Dirty transmission fluid
- Worn gears
- Damaged clutches or torque converters
- Electrical problems
6. How to maintain your car’s transmission
There are a number of things you can do to help maintain your car’s transmission, including:
- Check the transmission fluid level regularly and add fluid as needed.
- Change the transmission fluid and filter according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule.
- Avoid shifting gears too quickly or harshly.
- Have your transmission inspected by a qualified mechanic if you experience any problems.
By following these tips, you can help keep your car’s transmission running smoothly for years to come.
