Knowing the type of transmission in your vehicle is very important for car maintenance and repairs. However, many car owners don’t know their transmission type, which could lead to confusion and potential issues. This guide will help you identify your transmission type easily and accurately, ensuring you can care for your vehicle properly.
How Can I Know What Transmission My Car Has?
The transmission is the single most complex system of a car. It works as a channel, which transfers energy created by the engine to wheel. It does this through a mechanical system of gears and gear trains.
With the transmission, a driver can efficiently apply the right amount of power to the vehicle and adequately control its torque, acceleration, and speed.
There are two basic types of transmission found in vehicles. They are
- Manual transmission: As compared to an automatic car, a manual car offers more handle by the driver. The driver has three pedals, clutch, brake and accelerator pedal, with a gear stick located between the front seats.
- Automatic transmission: This transmission allows the driver to switch gears automatically without the driver’s assistance. Automatic cars typically only has two pedals since they use sensors to monitor the vehicle’s speed and torque.
Knowing the transmission of a vehicle helps you carry out the proper maintenance routines the vehicles need. Knowing the transmission type can also gauge fuel efficiency if you are buying a car.
If you still can’t immediately tell what type of transmission a car has, there are several other methods you can try.
Use a free VIN decoder
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the fingerprint of a car. By using a VIN decoder, you can get a whole lot of information about a car – including its transmission type. Our free VIN decoder breaks down not only the transmission details but also other vehicle specifications that you might want to know about your car.
Here’s how you can find the type of transmission you have by VIN:
- Locate your VIN on your vehicle or registration documents: The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be found on the vehicle’s dashboard, driver’s side door jamb, or registration documents. Most VINs are 17 characters long, but if you have a classic car, it may have 5 to 13 characters.
- Fill out the form on this page: Next, you only need to enter the VIN into the form on this page. Fill out the form and submit it.
- Decode the VIN to find transmission information: After submitting the form, you will get a list of the vehicle’s specifications, including the:
Check the owner’s manual
The vehicle’s owner’s manual is a good place to check when searching for the transmission. This document contains valuable information about the vehicle and can indicate the type of transmission you have.
Look for sections labeled “specifications” or “technical information” for transmission data in the manual. On the owner’s manual, you’ll also find data on the oil and fuel capacity, year, make, model, and more.
Look at the placard on the driver’s side door
The driver’s side door usually comes with two stickers on it. If you’re buying a new vehicle, it’ll be easier to identify. One of these stickers holds information about the vehicle’s engine and transmission, while the other shows tire guidelines and specifications.
With the sticker, you can find all you need to know about the transmission. If you don’t understand what it says, you can always Google it.
Visual inspection of the transmission bay
Although this is not the first step when it comes to finding the transmission type, it is also a reliable method. You can try checking the components of the transmission to give an idea of its type.
The shape of the oil pan, in particular, can give you clues. If it has an irregular shape, you have a manual transmission. Otherwise, it must be automatic. You can also check under the vehicle and look for the numbers on the transmission parts. With these numbers, your dealer or an auto shop can identify the type of transmission you have.
Why Should You Know Your Transmission Type?
Majorly you should know the transmission type of your vehicle for the following reasons:
Prompt transmission fluid changes
Transmission fluid is very helpful to cool the mechanical parts of the car and also to adequate lubrication. Periodically, the fluid can become contaminated with wear particles typical of each vehicle; if not changed, damaging consequences can occur.
Knowing the transmission type gives you insights into the right maintenance schedules.
Service intervals for transmission fluid changes vary widely, depending on the vehicle and transmission type, from as little as 30,000 miles to over 100,000 miles. For specific guidance, refer to your owner’s manual.
Spot warning signs of trouble
Being aware of problems that are associated with specific transmission types can put you in a position to find remedies before the issues worsen. The following are some of the early signs;
- Strange smells
- Funny or knocking sounds
- Shift delay
- Fluid leaks
- Shaking
If you notice any of these, run down to an auto repair shop for a proper inspection.
Improved vehicle performance
Each transmission type offers a unique driving experience, from the gear changes of automatics to the control of manuals. Understanding your transmission helps optimize its performance, ensuring efficient operation and a smooth driving experience.
Avoid overloading
All SUVs and trucks have maximum load capacities they can hold. Overloading can lead to wear and tear and transmission failure. With knowledge on the transmission type, you can check the vehicle’s load capacity and avoid overloading.
Accurate parts replacement
Whenever you need to repair or replace the transmission, knowing your vehicle’s transmission type ensures you buy the right parts, avoiding compatibility issues. This also means getting the correct fluids and preventing premature wear and potential breakdowns.
The Road Ahead: Keeping Your Transmission in Check
In conclusion, knowing the type of transmission in your vehicle is crucial for proper maintenance, repairs, and overall vehicle performance. By using a VIN decoder, checking the owner’s manual, looking at the placard on the driver’s side door, or conducting a visual inspection of the transmission bay, you can easily identify your transmission type.
