Understand Car Automatic Transmission Better

Automatic transmission is also known by many names and abbreviations like AT, auto transmission, self-shifting transmission, or n-shift transmission (‘n’ is the number of forward gear ratios). As these names suggest, the automatic transmission enables the vehicle to change gears automatically on acceleration and deceleration without the hassle of manual shifting. It handles the engine’s internal combustion system efficiently and manages the speed, torque, and power to provide varied outputs, without hesitation or jerks.

The hydraulic automatic transmission is the most common one found in today’s automobiles. Larger components with similar functioning are used in bigger vehicles. A fluid coupling is used in place of a friction clutch, which changes gears by locking and unlocking the planetary gears hydraulically. The automatic transmission has set gears with parking gear, locking the output shaft to keep vehicles from rolling backward or forward. In vehicles where the speed is limited like a forklift or lawn mower, a simple torque converter is used to transfer the energy from the engine to the wheels.

Following are the different types of automatic transmissions used by various manufacturers:

1. Traditional Automatic Transmission - It is also known as a self-shifting or n-speed transmission, which automatically changes the gear ratios when the vehicle moves. This gives drivers freedom from manually shifting the gears, along with smooth transmission and engine control.

   
   

2. Semi-Automatic Transmission - This transmission may also be inferred as an automated-manual transmission or paddle-shift gearbox. Thus, it is a type of transmission where the driver needs to shift gears similar to a manual transmission. However, it doesn’t possess a clutch like a manual transmission and uses an automatic transmission control unit to control the various clutch operations smoothly and precisely.

   
   

3. Dual Clutch Transmission - This type of transmission is popularly abbreviated as DCT. It is also called twin-clutch or double-clutch transmissions. Unlike other transmissions, it does not use a torque converter and uses two separate clutches for odd and even gear sets, thus enabling easy shifts between higher and lower gears. Also, the DCT doesn’t have a clutch pedal and uses computer modules to operate.

   
   

4. Continuous Variable Transmission - The CVT is another commonly used automatic transmission system where the mechanical gears are missing and it makes use of belts and pulleys to ensure proper gear shifting based on engine speeds. The CVT allows seamless transmission and acceleration, but the engine might feel a bit different than that running on a manual transmission.

   
   

5. Tiptronic Transmission - If the vehicle is equipped with Tiptronic transmission, the driver can drive in either automatic or manual modes. This type of transmission was first introduced by Porsche in the 1990s and was adopted by other manufacturers soon after. This type of transmission does not have a clutch but can change gears using paddle shifters or the gear stick itself. But in automatic mode, the control modules handle the shifting.

   
   

Although not a prime choice in many markets earlier, America has always shown a fondness for this transmission type because of the convenience of driving since the 1950s. But as its popularity grew, automatic transmission penetrated many new markets and has proved its worth all along to be a skilled performer.

1. Convenience - Easy operation is the prime benefit of driving a car with automatic transmission. This system is so easy and widely used that in many countries like the UK, France, Germany, Austria, and Poland, special tests are conducted before driving a manual transmission car and giving a driving license. However, in many other regions of especially in Europe, 80% of the cars are manual transmissions with a perception that with the ease of driving, the driver’s involvement decreases to such a level that it may cause accidents.

   
   

2. Strength - Theoretically, automatic transmissions are more powerful than manual transmissions. Most of the standard automatic transmission systems use planetary gear sets that are situated inside a housing near the back of the transmission. They utilize a set of small planet gears driven by the sun gear. The sun gear is surrounded by small planet gears. As the planet gears rotate around the sun gears, the ring gear starts to rotate and transfers the power. This planetary arrangement increases the surface area contact, spreading the torque over a greater area and reducing the chance of breakage.

   
   

3. Acceleration - The AT shifts faster and smoother between gears than the MT. This reduces the chances of mistiming and breakage in the transmission and clutch systems. Since the distance between the clutch arrangement and the gears is very less in an automatic transmission, the transmission works seamlessly and smoothly.

   
   

4. Torque Multiplication - A torque converter is used in almost all the automatic transmission systems, which allow the engine to idle. This converter uses an engine-driven impeller blade to push the fluid through the transmission-mounted turbine blade. When the impeller blade starts to rotate, the transmission fluid also rotates as it falls on the blades of the turbine. As the engine speed increases, the impeller and the transmission fluid rotate at a similar rate. Eventually, the turbine and the impeller start to rotate at the same speed, offering increased torque multiplication. 

   
   

Do you want to learn more about automatic transmissions and how they work? Although the procedure can be complicated, it ‌boils down to a few key elements:

• The bell housing, which houses a torque converter, connects the engine to your transmission. On a manual transmission, the torque converter replaces the clutch and ties the entire shifting process together.

• Transmission fluid goes from the impeller to the turbine inside the torque converter. The clutches and brakes within the internal gears - the planetary gear set - are activated by fluid pressure.

• Certain components of the planetary gear set are locked in place in response to changes in speed. Your gear ratio will alter depending on which gears are moving and which are locked, and the automobile will automatically shift to the correct gear.

If the automatic transmission system is faulty, it may lead to many problems and drivability issues. Some of those problems are listed below:

1. Transmission Fluid Colour & Condition - The ATF or Automatic Transmission Fluid is used for a variety of functions in the system, including gear changes, lubrication, and maintaining proper operating temperatures. Thus, it is important to check for fluid conditions every month. If the fluid is dirty or burnt, it must be replaced immediately. New fluid is usually pinkish-red and the old one may be brown due to usage and contamination. Also, check the smell for fluid burns.

   
   

2. Low Fluid Levels - If the transmission fluid level has decreased, it may cause transmission slipping, shaking, shifting issues, overheating, or even a complete failure. Thus, keep this in your monthly checklist to check for the transmission levels. It can simply be done using a dipstick and refilling adequate amounts. Also, if the need to refill is more frequent, suspect for transmission fluid leaks.

   
   

3. Signs of Leaks - Transmission leaks may occur because of problems in seals, gaskets, lines, and pans. Usually, one needs to replace the faulty part to resolve this issue. This is a major issue as it will directly impact the drivability of the vehicle.

   
   

4. Overheating - If the transmission fluid is less, the transmission system may overheat and underperform. It can cause the malfunction of various components and damage them severely. Thus, it is advisable to keep the fluid in check. The fluid can also be contaminated, causing fluid burning and overheating.

   
   

5. Transmission Slipping - Another indication of a transmission problem is when it starts slipping. This can be because of a variety of reasons like insufficient fluids, faulty solenoids or clutch discs, and wear and tear in the gear system. It will cause drivability issues,  stalling, and other problems in gear shifts.

   
   

It is important to identify the symptoms to know the problematic area and determine the diagnosis. We always suggest taking professional help to resolve sensitive vehicle problems that may include costly repairs and components.

Following are the symptoms causing transmission problems:

1. Whining & Clunking - One of the most common symptoms of a faulty transmission is when it makes weird noises. One may hear a humming or buzzing sound coming from the transmission and thus need immediate fixing.

   
   

2. Poor Response - If there is a poor response from the transmission, it will not change the gears properly, causing jerks, stalls, and driving issues.

   
   

3. Burning Smell - If the transmission fluid is less, it may get overheated and even burn, causing a burning smell from under the transmission.

   
   

4. Leaking Fluid - If the transmission seals, lines, gaskets, or pans are loose or damaged, it may cause the transmission fluid to leak. This will reduce the fluid levels and the transmission may overheat, causing transmission failure and problems in gear engagement.

   
   

5. Grinding Gears - If you feel a grinding sensation when the transmission changes gears on acceleration or deceleration, the transmission gear system may be faulty. There may also be a fault in the transmission belt or may have a rough shifter.

   
   

6. Noisy Neutral - This symptom may occur simply because of low levels of transmission fluid or can be because of some major component faults too. Thus, proper inspection is necessary to resolve this issue.

   
   

7. Check Engine Light On - The first symptom of any problem under the hood of the car is the Check Engine Light getting on. If this light is on, suspect a component, sensor, or module problem and resolve it immediately.

When you’re planning on making some repairs to your car’s transmission, understanding the various transmission repair tools will make the job easier. Below, you will find a list of seven common transmission repair tools.

• Transmission Jack 

• Output Shaft Seal

• Flywheel Wrench 

• Wrenches 

• Computer Diagnostic Tool 

• Spline Alignment Tool 

• Socket Set

For vehicle owners, the brands matter a lot. You might pay for a specific car part brand, over time, as it has created a perception of quality, stability, and trust. Some leading car parts brands are more than just products or services as they give rise to memories and emotions related to the quality. So have a look at some top brands for Automatic transmission:

• Dorman (OE Solutions) Automatic Transmission Parts

• Blue Streak (Hygrade Motor) Automatic Transmission Parts

• Dorman/Help Automatic Transmission Parts

• ATP Professional Auto Parts Automatic Transmission Parts

• SKF Automatic Transmission Parts

• Cooling Depot Automatic Transmission Parts

• B & M Racing & Performance Automatic Transmission Parts

• Hayden Automatic Transmission Parts

• Four Seasons Automatic Transmission Parts

It is very important to arm yourself with information before you shop for any auto parts. We are here to help you dive deep into the names of the Automatic transmission-related parts.

• Automatic Transmission Module

• Transmission Cooler Line

• Automatic Transmission Solenoid

• Flex Plate

• Automatic Transmission Oil Coolers

• Shift Selector Cable

• Automatic Transmission Bushing

• Automatic Transmission Oil Pan

Automatic Transmission replacement costs can differ widely depending on the application, the brand of the Automatic Transmission as well as who does the work. All you have to do is to replace your faulty Automatic Transmission with us online and then you can leave your car to the mechanic and pick it up a few days later. Just be sure that the car mechanic is highly skilled and has an excellent reputation. Sometimes the additional service level might cost you more than what you had expected. We also recommend you take pictures of your car before you leave it with them so that you are sure that later on it is returned to you in an unharmed condition. When is a rebuild appropriate? Sometimes your transmission will refuse to function because one major part has broken. In such circumstances, your mechanic may suggest a rebuilt transmission that might cost somewhere between $1,500 and $2,000.

It's worth noting that you may totally change the transmission on an automatic car at home, despite the fact that this is a major undertaking. To do so, you'll need to take the following steps:

Step 1

First, you should jack up the car. Remove the starter, solenoid, switches, and sensors' wiring connectors. Remove the starter by disconnecting it and removing the bolts. After that, the fluid should be drained properly. 

Step 2

If the exhaust pipe is in the way of the transmission, disconnect it at the manifold. Disconnect the transmission's shift linkage. The joints should then be removed by removing the driveshaft and then lowering it. 

Step 3

Specifically for the transmission, remove the mount from the cross member. To relieve part of the pressure, raise the transmission with a jack. Remove the transmission member's bolts.

Step 4

When the transmission is being supported, remove the actual cross member. To gain access to the actual transmission, remove the engine plate. Torque connector fasteners should be removed and replaced with new ones.

Step 5

Remove the nuts that connect the engine to the transmission. Pull the transmission away from the engine until it is free.

Step 6

You must also remove the torque converter when it has been removed. Using the guiding pins, align the new transition accurately. Remove the torque converter and reinstall it.

Step 7

Tighten the transmission, mounting bolts to the engine. Reinstall the cross member after lifting the transmission. Tighten the cross member while checking the torque specifications.

Step 8

Tighten the transmission mount and make sure it's stable. Reconnect the exhaust system and the wires that were previously detached.