Where Does Transmission Go in an Automatic Car?
In an automatic transmission car, the transmission is located in the center of the vehicle, between the engine and the driveshaft. The transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, and it does this by changing gears as the car speeds up or slows down.
The transmission is connected to the engine by a torque converter, which is a fluid-filled coupling that allows the engine to run at a different speed than the transmission. The torque converter also multiplies the torque from the engine, which helps to give the car more power.
The transmission is also connected to the driveshaft, which is a long metal shaft that runs from the transmission to the rear axle. The driveshaft transmits the power from the transmission to the rear wheels, which then turn the wheels and propel the car forward.
The transmission in an automatic car is a complex piece of machinery, and it is important to have it serviced regularly to keep it running properly. Transmission problems can cause the car to jerk or shudder, and they can also lead to more serious problems, such as transmission failure.
Types of Automatic Transmissions
There are two main types of automatic transmissions:
Planetary gear sets: This type of transmission uses a series of planetary gears to change gears. Planetary gear sets are compact and efficient, and they are used in most automatic cars.
Continuously variable transmissions (CVTs): CVTs use a belt or chain to change gears. CVTs are smoother than planetary gear sets, but they are also less efficient. CVTs are becoming more popular in cars, especially in hybrids and electric cars.
How an Automatic Transmission Works
An automatic transmission works by using a series of hydraulic valves to control the flow of fluid in the transmission. The fluid pressure in the transmission is what engages and disengages the gears.
When the car is in park, the transmission is in neutral and the gears are not engaged. When the car is shifted into drive, the transmission engages the first gear. As the car speeds up, the transmission shifts into higher gears. When the car slows down, the transmission shifts into lower gears.
The transmission also has a reverse gear, which is used to back up the car. The reverse gear is engaged by moving the gear selector into the reverse position.
Transmission Problems
The most common transmission problems are:
Slipping gears: This occurs when the transmission is unable to engage a gear properly. Slipping gears can cause the car to jerk or shudder.
Shifting problems: This occurs when the transmission is unable to shift into a gear smoothly. Shifting problems can cause the car to hesitate or lurch.
Leaks: Transmission leaks can occur due to a number of reasons, including worn seals or gaskets. Leaks can cause the transmission to lose fluid, which can lead to transmission failure.
Overheating: Transmission overheating can occur due to a number of reasons, including low fluid levels or a clogged filter. Overheating can damage the transmission and lead to transmission failure.
Transmission Maintenance
To keep your transmission running properly, it is important to have it serviced regularly. Transmission service includes:
Changing the transmission fluid: The transmission fluid should be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. The transmission fluid helps to lubricate and cool the transmission, and it can become contaminated over time.
Replacing the transmission filter: The transmission filter should be replaced every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. The transmission filter helps to remove contaminants from the transmission fluid.
Inspecting the transmission: The transmission should be inspected every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. The inspection will include checking the fluid level, checking for leaks, and inspecting the transmission mount.
By following these maintenance tips, you can help to keep your transmission running properly for many years to come.
Conclusion
The transmission is an important part of an automatic car, and it is important to keep it running properly. By following the tips in this article, you can help to extend the life of your transmission and avoid costly repairs.