If your transmission fails, most mechanics will recommend having it replaced rather than repaired. The reason is due to the enormous level of work involved in fixing it. Unlike other car parts, this assembly is comprised of multiple systems.

If you were to dismantle one and look inside, you would notice a hydraulic system that includes an intricate network of tubes. Transmission fluid flows through these tubes to keep the individual components lubricated. You would also find a computer that manages solenoids, sensors, and a throttle – among many other parts. You would see valves, gears, gaskets, and bands. Thus far, we have yet to mention the torque converter, oil pump, clutches, and vacuum modulator. In short, your transmission is the most complicated assembly under your vehicle’s hood.

So, how do the components mentioned above – as well as those left unmentioned – work together to move your car? This article will explain the process. I’ll also describe the differences between front-wheel and rear-wheel drives in the context of how the tranny influences each.

Basics Of The Assembly’s Operation

Most people realize their car’s engine generates the power needed to turn the wheels. The question is, how is that power transferred from the engine to the wheels? This is the job of your transmission. It sits near – or, in the case of cars with front-wheel drive, behind – the engine. There, it ensures the engine is generating power while staying within its optimal range of RPMs. To do this, the tranny has several gears.

As you move from first to fifth gear, your engine exerts less energy despite moving your wheels more quickly. For example, when your vehicle is moving at 10 miles per hour, the RPMs are high. By the time you’ve reached 65 miles per hour, the RPMs are much lower, allowing your engine to operate more efficiently.

The assembly also has positions for neutral, park, and reverse. In neutral, the connection between the tranny and your engine is removed so no power is being transferred to your drive wheels. Reverse works in the same manner as first through fifth gears. Park is different. A deadbolt-like system secures the wheels in place and prevents them from moving.

Front-Wheel Versus Rear-Wheel Drives

Most vehicles manufactured today have front-wheel drives. On such cars, the transmission is nestled next to the engine with the torque converter separating the two assemblies. The tranny forms part of the transaxle, which turns the wheels. As the engine spins, it generates power and sends it through the torque converter and into the tranny. This causes the transaxle to spin, thereby turning the wheels.

With cars that have a rear-wheel drive, the transmission is located further back. It is still separated from the engine by the torque converter, but extends under the cabin of the vehicle. You may have wondered what lay beneath the hump sitting between the driver and front passenger. The answer? The car’s tranny.

Here, power flows through the same components (i.e. from the engine to the torque converter to the transmission), but then travels through the driveshaft. The driveshaft is located underneath the cabin and extends to the rear axle. It delivers the engine’s power to the rear wheels.

The assembly, as described above, should operate seamlessly for more than 100,000 miles. In fact, it’s not uncommon to hear drivers claim their transmissions lasted for 200,000 miles or longer. The key is an ample supply of fluid for lubrication and heat reduction. Unfortunately, the seals and gaskets throughout the assembly can deteriorate, leading to leaks.

If you notice a few drops of reddish fluid on the ground underneath your transmission, check the level. If it’s low, add more. Similar to your engine and its need for oil, insufficient transmission fluid can lead to expensive damage.

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Category: Automotive
Keywords: cars, automobiles, car, vehicles, transmissions