
Buick Regal models with a 2.4T displacement all utilize Aisin transmissions. The Buick Regal's 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission originates from the German ZF transmission factory, while the models 6T45E and 6T45 are sourced from Japan's Aisin transmission factory. These two transmissions differ in origin and technology. Below is relevant information about transmissions: 1. A transmission is a mechanism used to alter the speed and torque from the engine. It can fix or change the gear ratio between the output and input shafts, also known as a gearbox. The transmission consists of a gear transmission mechanism and a control mechanism, with some vehicles also featuring a power output mechanism. Most transmission mechanisms use ordinary gear drives, while some employ planetary gear systems. Ordinary gear transmission mechanisms typically use sliding gears and synchronizers. 2. Step-type transmissions are the most widely used. They employ gear drives with several fixed gear ratios. Depending on the gear train type, there are fixed-axis transmissions and rotating-axis transmissions. Passenger cars and light to medium-duty trucks usually have 3-5 forward gears and one reverse gear, while heavy-duty trucks with combined transmissions may have more gears. The number of transmission gears refers specifically to the number of forward gears.

I recall that Buick Regal models equipped with Aisin transmissions were mainly concentrated in the second-generation vehicles from 2010 to 2014, particularly the versions with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, such as the 2.0T Luxury or GS editions, which were fitted with the Aisin AF40 6-speed automatic transmission. Back then, General Motors and Aisin collaborated quite frequently, resulting in smooth transmission matching and good fuel economy. Later, when the third-generation Regal was launched in 2017, it switched to GM's own 9-speed transmission, so you won't find Aisin units in new cars nowadays. If you're in the market for a used car, I recommend focusing on 2012 or 2013 2.0T models, checking maintenance records or VIN codes for confirmation. In daily driving, the Aisin-equipped versions have a low failure rate and are particularly worry-free for long-distance trips.

I learned from veteran car enthusiasts that the Aisin transmission was more commonly used in pre-2014 Buick Regal 2.0T models. Specifically, the 2011 to 2013 Regal GS was equipped with this AF40 transmission, known for its responsive shifting and quiet operation. In contrast, the 1.6T version used a different transmission with slightly lower reliability. Currently, in the used car market, it's relatively easy to find GS series from these years with the Aisin configuration. By the way, Aisin transmissions are also commonly found in Toyota Corollas and have a good reputation. If you check the engine code or ask the seller for the configuration sheet before a test drive, you can avoid buying the wrong one.

When researching the Regal, I found that Aisin transmissions were commonly used in early 2010s 2.0T models, such as around the 2013 model year. That generation was paired with the AF40 6AT, delivering a smooth driving experience. Later models switched to GM's 9AT, which improved performance but came from a different manufacturer. When buying an older model, first check the model year and engine - pre-2014 versions tend to be more reliable.


