What transmission does the BYD Song MAX use?
2 Answers
BYD Song MAX manual transmission models use an Aisin transmission, while automatic transmission models use a transmission developed by BYD itself. Aisin, established in 1969, is a world-renowned professional developer and manufacturer of automotive automatic transmissions. In the field of automotive automatic transmissions, Aisin's products hold the highest market share globally. The BYD Song MAX manual transmission model is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, while the automatic transmission model uses a 6-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. A manual transmission is a gear-shifting device used to alter the engine's speed and torque transmitted to the drive wheels. It enables the vehicle to achieve different traction and speed under various conditions such as starting from a standstill, climbing hills, turning, and accelerating, while also allowing the engine to operate within a more favorable range. The wet dual-clutch transmission features two multi-plate clutches of different sizes, installed coaxially within a sealed oil chamber filled with hydraulic fluid. This design provides better adjustment capability and higher thermal tolerance, allowing the transmission to handle larger torque. For the BYD Song MAX transmission, the following points should be noted during daily use: Avoid prolonged intervals without changing the transmission fluid. Extended periods without fluid changes can damage internal components such as bearings and the transmission housing. Avoid prolonged coasting in neutral. While many experienced drivers may coast in neutral with manual transmissions, doing so with an automatic transmission can cause overheating and produce shocks when shifting back into D gear. Do not shift into D/R gear before the vehicle has come to a complete stop. Some drivers shift into reverse while the vehicle is still moving to demonstrate smooth operation, but this can cause significant damage to the transmission gears and lead to gear grinding over time. Avoid frequently climbing steep slopes in D gear. Automatic transmission vehicles can overheat under high load or shift prematurely, resulting in insufficient power for climbing. In such cases, using manual mode to limit lower gears or switching to sport mode can help protect the transmission. Do not tow the vehicle over long distances. If an automatic transmission vehicle breaks down, it should be transported using a flatbed tow truck with the vehicle in N gear. Towing with a rope or directly dragging the vehicle is not recommended.
I've been driving the BYD Song Max for two years now, and the car mainly features a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. The gear shifts are quite smooth, and I have no issues driving on the highway every day to pick up and drop off my kids. This dual-clutch design is aimed at fuel efficiency, with an average fuel consumption of around 7 liters per 100 kilometers, which is much better than older automatic transmissions. However, there can be a slight jerkiness at low speeds, so you need to be careful in city traffic jams. I recommend regular checks on the transmission fluid, changing it every 40,000 kilometers to extend its lifespan. Compared to my old Tiguan, the Song Max's transmission is more suited for city driving, with faster acceleration response and stable performance when overtaking on the highway. Safety-wise, I've had no issues, though you need to warm up the car a bit during cold starts in winter. Overall, it offers great value for money and is perfect for practical family use like mine.
