When choosing a transmission type, most people in the US only know that the manual requires a gear shift, and the automatic performs this on its own. However, to decide which used car to buy, one should understand the principles of operation of both gearboxes and their pros and cons. The mechanics from the Indy Auto Man, one of the top listed used car dealerships, Indianapolis, explain all these issues in one article.
Manual Transmission
The principle of operation is simple: the driver moves the gears, through which the rotating element is transmitted to the wheels, and determines the best speed for the engine. After the clutch is pressed, the circuit opens and the engine transmits torque. A lever located in the cabin allows the driver to put the gear in the required place, and after releasing the clutch, the chain closes with the new gear.
Vehicles equipped with a manual transmission are considered more reliable. Manual gearboxes are very simple in construction and do not require electronics to function.
Advantages of Manual Transmission
- Saving. An experienced driver can save gasoline with a manual transmission, operating the engine when consumption is at its lowest. It is possible to transfer the car to neutral, and the motor will idle, saving fuel.
- Dynamics. With mechanics, the driver regulates the engine speed. It is possible to downshift and make a different torque while overtaking and quickly accelerating the car to the desired speed. Additionally, the box braking can be used for emergencies.
- Exploitation. Buying a gearbox or repairing it will cost much less than an automatic one since it is a simpler element.
- Experience. This is the main argument for beginners. With the experience of driving a manual transmission, a driver will be able to drive different cars in any case. If constantly driving an automatic, then problems arise even at the stage of starting to move. With mechanics, a newbie driver learns to listen to the motor and hear strange noises, this helps develop attentiveness and responsibility.
Disadvantages of Manual Transmission
- Uncomfortable. It is very inconvenient to move around a crowded city with mechanics. If a car gets into a traffic jam, the driver’s hand will not release the lever at all. The constant movement of arms and legs is not very inconvenient. Passing each traffic light requires repeating the set of actions, which can be annoying.
- Resource of the motor and transmission. A beginner can make the engine work at the redistribution and reduce its life. A similar situation can arise with the clutch. Novice drivers squeeze it out by constantly thinking through their actions and can burn it. Although repairing a manual transmission is cheaper than an automatic transmission, it still costs money.
Automatic Transmission
Previously, cars with such a gearbox were inferior to mechanical ones. They had high fuel consumption and few gears, while the dynamics were reduced. But modern automatic transmissions have improved a lot and are superior to mechanics in many ways. They do not stand still and are getting better.
Advantages of Automatic Transmission
- Dynamics. Premium segment cars with automatic transmission have increased dynamics for acceleration.
- Convenience. Even when getting behind the wheel for the first time, a driver can move off without problems from any angle.
- More resource. The driver cannot control the engine speed himself. The computer offers a gentle operation mode so that the transmission and motor can have a long service life.
Although many consider convenience a sufficient argument, automatic transmissions still have several disadvantages.
Disadvantages of Automatic Transmission
If talking about simple automatic machines installed on most middle-class used cars, one can experience the following shortcomings:
- It is impossible to push start a vehicle.
- Cars with automatic transmissions are more expensive.
- Replacement or repair is expensive.
Which Used Car to Buy in Indianapolis: Automatic or Manual?
The choice is, of course, a personal matter for each newcomer, but from the expert’s point of view, for study and a more accurate feeling of the processes occurring with the machine, it is better on the mechanics. Of course, this is not very convenient and is sometimes annoying. But the first car, as a rule, changes after a few years, and an invaluable experience stays forever.
For those who are looking for the first car in Indianapolis, whether with a manual or automatic transmission, Indy Auto Man can offer 300+ used vehicles for every taste and budget.