Did you know that no other component of your car is as complex as its automatic transmission?
The transmission is one of the most important and complicated systems in your vehicle, but also the least understood. Today’s car transmissions are a combination of sophisticated hydraulic parts and computer-controlled electronic components. Have you ever wondered what kind of transmission your car has?
The different types of transmission
Today, there are more than 200 types of transmissions on the road. For some car models, there can be three or four different types depending on the engine size. Some car manufacturers even change the type or design of the transmission according to car models from year to year. It is even worse if the transmission has been changed since the car was first released.
All in all, knowing the type of transmission in your car could come in handy when looking for service information. Read on for some handy tips on how to find out what type of transmission your vehicle has.
For starters, a transmission is either manual or automatic. Some vehicles require a clutch to connect the transmission to the engine and disconnect it, and this is controlled by means of a pedal to the left of the brake pedal. These vehicles are said to be “manual transmission”. Essentially, in a vehicle with a manual transmission, you have to change gears yourself. On the other hand, if you place the gear lever in the “Drive” or “Reverse” position to make your car move, it has an automatic transmission. So if your car does not have a clutch pedal, it is an automatic transmission car.
Okay, you are now ready to study the type of transmission in your vehicle. Be prepared to examine the innards of your car and call or visit your dealer’s service department.
Owner’s Guide
Start by finding your owner’s guide. Perhaps you will find information on the type of transmission of your vehicle there.
Lift the hood
You can also lift the hood and examine what’s underneath. Most cars have a sticker under the hood telling you what you need to know. In most cases, you will find a 4 or 6 speed transmission or even HEMI. These are the standard sizes on the market today.
Carte blanche on the driver’s door
Open the driver’s side door and locate the white card with black text on the side of it. This card contains specific information about the year of manufacture of the car, its transmission, its engine and other details. Below or next to the “TR” symbol will be a number code. Contact your local dealership service or parts department to find out which transmission this code relates to.
oil pan
Lift the hood and locate the oil pan. Some automakers use a different crankcase shape depending on the type of transmission being used. The oil pan for an automatic transmission is similar in shape to the state of New Mexico. Note the shape of the crankcase and if it looks a bit odd, it’s an automatic transmission.
If none of these methods work, take note of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and call your local Mister Transmission branch. We will do a computer search for you. You can also visit the Monsieur Transmission branch closest to you . Your vehicle will be inspected there and you will be informed of the type of transmission it has. This is the best way to proceed if you are having trouble with your transmission; so you can get exactly the parts you need for your vehicle’s specific transmission.
