What Types of Transmissions Are There?

[Katniss]

There are many types of car transmissions, with the most common including AMT automatic transmissions, AT automatic transmissions, CVT continuously variable transmissions, and DCT dual-clutch transmissions. Here is some relevant information about transmissions: 1. AMT Automatic Transmission: The AMT transmission is a compromise between MT and AT transmissions. It has relatively low production costs and is more convenient to operate. However, improper operation can cause strong jerking sensations, affecting comfort. 2. AT Automatic Transmission: The AT automatic transmission consists of a torque converter, planetary gears, and a hydraulic control system, achieving variable torque through hydraulic transmission and gear combinations. 3. CVT Continuously Variable Transmission: Compared to AT automatic transmissions, the CVT eliminates the complex and bulky gear combination transmission. Instead, it uses two sets of pulleys. Gear shifting is achieved by changing the contact radius of the belt between the driving and driven pulleys. 4. DCT Dual-Clutch Transmission: The DCT dual-clutch transmission uses two sets of clutches, which alternate to achieve seamless gear shifting. DCT can be divided into dry dual-clutch and wet dual-clutch types.

[DelPaislee]

I've been driving manual transmissions for ten years, and gearboxes basically fall into three categories. The most common is the manual transmission (MT), where you press the clutch and shift gears yourself—like my old Jetta. It's simple in structure and cheap to repair, but your left leg gets tired in traffic jams. Automatic transmissions (AT) are the most popular now; no clutch pedal needed, as the computer controls hydraulic pressure for gear shifts, making it very hassle-free. Many Japanese cars use this. Then there's the CVT (continuously variable transmission), which offers smooth driving without jerks, like the Nissan Sylphy's belt-driven system. Dual-clutch transmissions (DCT) shift quickly and save fuel—Volkswagen calls theirs DSG, with both dry and wet types (the wet type has better cooling). Hybrids use E-CVT, which is actually a collaboration between electric motors and gear sets—Toyota hybrids all follow this approach. EVs are simpler, with single-speed transmissions delivering torque directly. Choosing a transmission depends on your needs: go for AT if you want ease, or manual if you prefer control.

[AlanaDella]

As an auto mechanic, I see transmission failures every day. Manual transmissions are the most rugged, but clutch disc wear and failure are quite common. AT transmissions rely on torque converters for power transfer, with intricate planetary gear sets inside - valve body clogs can cause jerky shifts. CVT transmissions may whine when the steel belt slips, making regular fluid changes crucial. Dual-clutch transmissions come in dry and wet types; dry ones are prone to overheating in stop-and-go traffic, while wet types offer better stability. Although EV reducers are simpler, bearing wear can cause unusual noises. Some vehicles now use AMT (automated manual transmission), which adds automatic shifting to manual gearboxes - it's cost-effective but noticeably jerky. Remember to change transmission fluid on schedule, especially for CVT models where exceeding 60,000 km without a change can lead to complete failure.

[LeWeston]

My mom chose the CVT in her Corolla for smoothness. Actually, there are only two core transmission logics: stepped and stepless. AT and DCT belong to stepped transmissions, which rely on gear sets to shift. AT uses a torque converter for buffering, while DCT employs two sets of clutches working alternately. CVT continuously changes the gear ratio via cones and a steel belt, similar to how a bicycle gear system works. Manual transmissions require the driver's brain to judge gear shifts, while AMT uses a computer to operate the clutch. The planetary gear structure in hybrids is more sophisticated, capable of coordinating both the motor and engine speeds simultaneously. Single-speed transmissions in electric vehicles are the most straightforward. Don’t neglect transmission fluid during maintenance, as poor-quality oil can cause valve body sticking.

[SanSkylar]

For us in the modification scene, transmission matching is the biggest headache. Manual transmissions offer more freedom, and upgrading to a performance clutch can handle greater torque. AT transmissions can have their shifting logic altered by flashing the ECU, but strengthening them requires disassembly and replacing the wave plates. CVTs are best left mostly stock, as factory versions can only handle around 220 Nm. Dual-clutch transmissions are the most expensive to modify—the DQ500 wet dual-clutch has great tuning potential, but pairing it with a big turbo requires upgraded reinforced clutches. Sequential transmissions are only for track cars—they shift fast but are too loud for daily driving. Key reminder: Randomly flashing transmission software can easily trigger fault codes, so always check the factory transmission model's tolerance limits before modifying.