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A guide to the different types of gearboxes – automatic and manual
There are two types of gearboxes used in cars – automatic or manual. Such systems differ significantly in their construction and operation. How do automatic and manual gearboxes work? Which one is better to choose? We advise
- The choice of gearbox affects driving comfort, so it is worth choosing the right type for you.
- A manual gearbox is a cheap and simple design that gives you full control over gear changes, but it takes your attention off the road and requires practice.
- Automatic transmission means comfort and smooth gear changes without driver intervention. It is more expensive, more complicated and means less control over the car.
- Want to calculate your car's fuel consumption? Use our fuel consumption calculator!
- Manual gearbox
- Advantages of a manual transmission
- Disadvantages of manual transmission
- How does a manual gearbox work?
- Automatic Transmission
- Advantages of an automatic transmission
- Disadvantages of automatic transmission
- How does an automatic transmission work?
- What to choose – manual or automatic transmission?
Manual and automatic gearboxes differ significantly in terms of construction and use. Both types have their supporters. Which gearbox is a better idea? Check what these gearboxes are characterized by and when it is worth choosing a given variant.
Manual gearbox
Classic manual gearbox, often called manual or simply manual gearbox is a standard solution used for decades. To change gear, the driver must move the stick at the right time and direction (when a specific RPM value is reached). All this, of course, while skillfully pressing the clutch pedal. Operating such a system requires practice, as well as knowledge of the car's behavior at a specific speed. Manual gearbox is liked especially by people who prefer to have full control over the vehicle.
Advantages of a manual transmission
Manual has several advantages:
- it is cheap, which directly affects the price of the car and any service,
- allows the driver to make independent decisions about when to change gear and select the gear ratio,
- is characterized by simple construction and low weight,
- In experienced hands, a manual transmission can be more fuel efficient.
Disadvantages of manual transmission
Unfortunately, manual transmissions also have their drawbacks. Manually changing the stick position requires practice, which is problematic especially for novice drivers. What's more, the need to change gears sometimes distracts attention from the road. Manual transmissions can also be more easily damaged by incorrectly changing the stick position or overusing the clutch pedal. In addition, frequent gear changes can be tiring, especially during traffic jams.
Also read: Gearbox oil – how to choose it and how often to replace it?
How does a manual gearbox work?
It is not complicated in itself. A manual gearbox requires manual gear shifting using a lever and a clutch pedal. The clutch separates the engine from the gearbox, which allows for gear changes. After pressing it, the driver moves the lever, which changes the gear ratio by connecting different sprockets. As a result, the torque and speed of the vehicle change. Depending on the position of the lever, the gearbox changes the gear ratio, which affects the driving characteristics - in lower gears (e.g. first, second), the vehicle gains greater driving force at the expense of speed, which is beneficial when starting off or climbing hills. Higher gears (e.g. fourth, fifth) allow for higher speeds with less driving force.
Automatic Transmission
Time for the second type of gear. Automatic Transmission allows you to adjust the gear to the current driving parameters without having to repeatedly move the stick in the right direction and in a specific order. In this case, the automatic transmission changes gears itself based on parameters such as vehicle speed, engine speed and gas pedal position. The automatic is preferred by people who value travel comfort and smooth driving above all. One type of automatic transmission is skrzynia CVT, the operation of which we have already described on our blog.
Advantages of an automatic transmission
- allows for automatic gear changes, relieving the driver of this necessity,
- enables smooth gear changes without interrupting the drive,
- allows the engine to be operated in the appropriate speed range.
Disadvantages of automatic transmission
Primarily automatic gearboxes are much more complicated. For this reason, vehicles equipped with such systems will be more expensive. They are also more difficult to repair due to the components used. Sometimes drivers, especially those who previously used a manual gearbox, may also feel that they do not have control over the vehicle. The automatic system does not allow you to independently choose the moment of gear change.
How does an automatic transmission work?
Automatic transmissions change gear ratios without the driver needing to intervene. They use hydraulic and electronic systems to shift gears on their own. While driving, sensors monitor vehicle speed and engine RPM, and the computer selects the optimal gear ratio. As a result, the car adjusts torque smoothly and without the driver having to manually shift gears. Such transmissions are particularly popular in North America, but they are also becoming more common in Europe and other parts of the world.
What to choose – manual or automatic transmission?
The choice between manual and automatic transmission depends primarily on the driver's individual needs and budget. Which gearbox would be a better choice? It all depends on the driver's preferences. Traditional solutions are popular primarily among people who have many years of experience behind the wheel and want to decide for themselves when to change gear. Manual gearboxes are also cheaper - the difference in the price of the vehicle can be as much as several thousand zlotys. Cars with automatic gearboxes are more expensive, but they allow for much easier operation. They appeal especially to novice drivers who do not want to worry about having to remember to change gears correctly. Thanks to automatic gearboxes, you can fully focus on the road.
We hope that our guide to gearboxes has been interesting and useful. Manual gearboxes, as well as their automatic counterparts, both have their advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right gearbox is very important. After all, the gearbox greatly affects driving comfort.
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