A vehicle’s transmission transfers the energy from the engine to the drive wheels. If the transmission fails, your car won’t move until you replace it with new or used car parts. Since you must replace it with the same type of transmission, it’s helpful to understand the different available types. Here’s what you should know. 

3 Types of Transmission Systems

1. Automatic 

Nowadays, you can find used car parts to fix an automatic transmission at any salvage yard, but this wasn’t always the case. An automatic transmission was once considered a luxury, and few vehicles were equipped with them.

The automatic transmission switches gears without the driver’s involvement, relying instead on hydraulics or electronic sensors. An automatic transmission offers an easier ride. Owners save money because they tend to experience fewer mechanical problems.

2. Manual 

A manual transmission relies on a stick-shift lever to change gears and a clutch pedal located on the floor, near the brake pedal. To switch gears, the driver must press down on the clutch, while shifting gears with the stick-shift.

They take a certain degree of skill to operate, as maneuvering the clutch too quickly or slowly can cause mechanical problems. You may wear out the clutch disc by shifting too slowly or cause the vehicle to stall by shifting too quickly. This can lead to wear on engine components.

3. Continuously Variable 

More commonly referred to as a CVT, the continuously variable transmission eliminates the need to shift between gears by using a chain pulley system. Previously, CVT systems were more common in motorcycles, mopeds, and recreational vehicles. However, more car and truck manufacturers are adapting the system for vehicles.

A CVT system offers the smoothest ride and is more fuel-efficient; however, the ride can feel unnerving at first, because there’s no sensation of shifting gears. Newer vehicles have been designed with shift paddles that help create the illusion of riding in a vehicle with a traditional automatic transmission to increase consumer appeal.  Repairing your CVT is extremely difficult, most often requiring transmission replacement upon failure.  Thus your repair bill can be extensive.

When your transmission fails, you may need to rely on a quality used car parts provider to help you get back on the road. Located in Anchorage, AK, Northwest Auto Parts has been providing top used parts at reasonable prices since 1981. They provide a 101-day warranty on every part they sell and their rates are often 50% lower than the price you would pay for new parts. To contact someone on their staff, use their online form or call (800) 770-6531.