Manual and Automatic Transmissions in Import Cars

Most of us know the basic distinction between manual and automatic transmissions: with a manual, you manually shift gears whereas in an automatic it is done automatically.  But the average understanding of the differences between manual and automatic transmissions usually stops there.  Manuals and automatics not only have basic functionality differences, they additionally have distinctions in terms of repair, wear-and-tear, and necessary maintenance.  Before having your transmission worked on, then, it is imperative that you ensure your auto mechanic has a deep knowledge of your particular transmission.

Shifting with a manual transmission has a number of advantages in terms of car performance and maintenance.  At a basic level, manuals tend to have better fuel economy and lower maintenance costs.  The clutch, one of the most important components to any transmission, has a propensity to be more easily maintained in manuals as is transmission fluid replacement. However, it can be extremely easy, especially for newcomers to manual transmissions, to make damaging mistakes that require immediate service and repair. 

Automatics, on the other hand, have their particular advantages.  Anyone who drives a manual transmission knows the horror of traffic buildup and the particular wear-and-tear that occurs both physically to the car and mentally to the driver.  Yet, automatic transmission failure tends to be more calamitous and expensive than its manual counterpart.  This is because automatic transmissions are particularly make and model specific.

As most of us know, then, it’s a balancing act between manual transmissions and automatic transmissions.  Whatever your variety of transmission, however, it is extremely vital to have trust in your auto mechanic and transmission repair specialists. 

Choosing the right transmission mechanic becomes even more important if you have an import car.  Asian imports such as Honda, Acura, Toyota, Nissan, and Mitsubishi as well as European Imports such as Audi, BMW, Volkswagen, Porsche, SAAB, Mercedes, Lexus, and Volvo all have nuisances between themselves in addition to domestic autos.  As an owner of an import car, you must make sure your transmission mechanic is well qualified in servicing your car, such as Portland Import Transmissions (www.portlandimporttransmissions.com), who have qualified specialists who know import transmissions in-and-out, with years of experience serving both manual and automatic transmissions.

With the right transmission service and repair specialist, you automatic and manual transmissions can last for thousands of miles and many years.  Just make sure you trust your mechanic to do the job right and that they have years of experience with your make.  Otherwise, a poor decision in transmission service could result in a poor decision on your wallet.   

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Jessica Rosales

Is automatic better than manual for steep, windy terrain?

For driving up very steep roads with lots of twists and turns, is it better to have an automatic, in terms of wear on the gears and longevity? Or stick to manual?

If your comfortable with the constant need to shift for yourself go with a manual.
If you wish to arrive more refreshed order a car with an automatic. Most modern automatics can be shifted manually if the desire to shift yourself overtakes you.
I have owned/driven both and quite frankly a good automatic beats a manual shift ‘most of the time’. I do own a truck with a manual transmission. My cars are all automatic.
Modern transmissions are very well constructed and there is no reason that a properly maintained automatic will not last as long as any manual.
Just go with what you are most comfortable with.