Which is more stable, GM 9AT or Aisin 8AT?
4 Answers
Aisin 8AT is more stable. Introduction to AT transmission: AT transmission, commonly known as mechanical transmission, uses planetary gears and a torque converter to perform gear shifting operations, replacing the clutch of a manual transmission and freeing the driver's left foot. With its compact size and greater durability, it is also widely favored by Japanese brands. Maintenance of AT transmission: Regularly check whether the automatic transmission fluid level is normal. The method for checking automatic transmission fluid is different from that of engine oil. Engine oil is checked when the engine is cold, while transmission fluid needs to be preheated to about 50 degrees Celsius. Then, move the gear lever through each gear, pausing for 2 seconds in each position, before placing it in the parking gear. At this time, the normal fluid level on the dipstick should be between the highest and lowest marks. If it is insufficient, add the same quality of fluid promptly.
I've driven several cars equipped with different transmissions before, and I feel that the Aisin 8AT offers superior stability, especially in common models like the Toyota Camry, which can run over 100,000 kilometers without major issues. The shifting is exceptionally smooth, and the failure rate is low. Although the GM 9AT has more gears and is slightly more fuel-efficient, I've seen many owners on forums reporting that early versions, like those installed in the Chevrolet Blazer, often experience jerky shifts and maintenance issues, requiring frequent checks. This makes its stability slightly inferior. If you truly want a worry-free long-term experience, Aisin's design is more conservative and reliable, less likely to cause unexpected problems.
From the perspective of a long-term owner, the Aisin 8AT is truly a durability king. My old Corolla ran for eight years without any transmission repairs, always performing steadily. The GM 9AT in the Buick Regal showed obvious fuel-saving advantages when first purchased, but after two years, it started to exhibit gear-shifting jerks and noises, requiring frequent maintenance. Comparing the two transmissions, Aisin's components are more mature with fewer failures, while GM sacrificed some reliability in pursuit of surpassing gear numbers.
The Aisin 8AT demonstrates superior overall stability, benefiting from Toyota's backing which has subjected it to years of market validation, resulting in fewer failures and greater durability. As a newer contender, the GM 9AT shows stronger innovation but tends to have more minor issues.
