What are the disadvantages of the Aisin 8AT transmission?
2 Answers
The disadvantages of the Aisin 8AT transmission are gearshift jerking and complex structure. The AT transmission, commonly known as the mechanical transmission, uses planetary gears and a torque converter to perform gear shifting operations, replacing the clutch in a manual transmission and helping the driver free the left foot. Its advantages are compact size and durability. The transmission is a very important component in a car. If the transmission responds slowly during daily driving, the overall smoothness of the vehicle will be much worse, and low transmission efficiency will lead to increased fuel consumption. The functions of the transmission are: 1. To change the transmission ratio and expand the range of torque and speed changes of the driving wheels; 2. To enable the car to reverse without changing the rotation direction of the engine.
As a car owner, I believe the biggest issue with the Aisin 8AT transmission is the gear-shifting delay during low-speed daily driving. In congested urban areas, when you clearly want to accelerate to overtake, it often hesitates before shifting, resulting in a jerky sensation. This sluggish response diminishes the driving experience, unlike the crispness of a dual-clutch transmission. Another headache is its fuel efficiency performance. While it is indeed more fuel-efficient on highways, in stop-and-go city traffic, the advantage isn't obvious, and sometimes it even underperforms compared to some older 6AT transmissions in terms of economy. Maintenance-wise, once issues arise—such as sensor failures—repair costs can easily run into thousands, and you're forced to visit a 4S dealership, as regular roadside shops can't handle it. Overall, it's highly durable, but the initial investment is also steep, adding tens of thousands to the car purchase price. I think buyers need to weigh their options: if you prioritize sporty driving or have a tight budget, it might be better to consider other brands.
