There is no need to shift any gears as you effortlessly drive from point A to point B.
However, there are still a few potential pitfalls that can occur if you’re not careful.
The transmission is filled with a special fluid that keeps it cool and lubricated.
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The fluid also contains a detergent that keeps the moving parts clean.
Over time, the fluid can become dirty and need to be replaced.
The first gear in an automatic transmission is typically low.
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This gear is engaged when the car starts from a stop.
The transmission then shifts to second gear and then third gear as the car’s speed increases.
The fourth and fifth gears are typically overdrive gears that engage at higher speeds.
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This gear helps improve fuel economy by reducing the engine’s RPMs.
Most automatic transmissions have a torque converter responsible for transferring the engine’s power to the transmission.
The torque converter is a fluid coupling that uses hydraulic pressure to multiply the engine’s torque.
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The transmission also has a governor that controls the speed of the engine.
The governor is connected to the accelerator pedal and prevents the engine from revving too high.
The transmission is controlled by a series of solenoids that direct the flow of hydraulic fluid.
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As the car accelerates, the TCM sends signals to the other solenoids, which engage the other gears.
When the car slows down, the TCM signals the transmission to downshift into a lower gear.
The TCM can also engage the transmission’s overdrive gear when the car is cruising at a steady speed.
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Most modern cars have a transmission controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU).
The ECU is a computer that controls the engine and transmission.
To keep your automatic transmission running smoothly, never do these five things.
Never Accidentally Shift From Drive to Reverse in an Automatic Gearbox
Despite the dangers (and often laws!
By doing these things, you may accidentally switch from drive to reverse.
This will cause catastrophic damage to your transmission.
The transmission has a vent to relieve the built-up pressure.
Driving through deep water causes water to be sucked into the vent and into your transmission.
There is nothing worse than having water in your transmission.
You may be able to flush it out if you’re lucky.
Otherwise, your transmission will be destroyed and will need to be replaced, again costing thousands of dollars.
You could burn out your clutch in a manual transmission.
You’ll also have to spend money on new tires.
Luckily, there areapps for finding cheap tires and serviceswhen needed.
Idling for an extended period is not good for your car.
Instead, it’s best to shut down the car or even put it in park.
This reduces strain on the transmission and prevents unnecessary wear and tear.
Change Your Transmission Fluid Regularly
There are manyways to make your car run forever.
Neglecting to change your fluids is not one of them.
Regularly changing your transmission fluid keeps components clean and operating at optimal temperatures.
Over time, all oils break down, including synthetics.
Synthetics simply last longer.
