Different Transmission Types in Myrtle Beach, SC

Discover Which Transmission Type Fits Your Driving Style

When you go to a dealership to look at cars for sale, you probably have a list of questions to ask and features you’re looking for. But do you think about what transmission the car you want has? You don’t want to pick a specific make and model only to find out it has a transmission you don’t prefer or aren’t comfortable driving.

To avoid this dilemma, you can learn about the four different types of transmission and how they each work. You can understand the benefits of each and how they can help with your driving experience. Then, when you come to Sparks Toyota in Myrtle Beach, SC, to explore the inventory, you’ll be better equipped to choose something you feel good about. Plus, our knowledgeable staff will answer any of your questions and help you address any concerns you have.

Manual Transmission

Manual transmission is the one in which the driver is the most actively involved. For the car to shift from one gear to another, the driver must manually perform certain operations. The manual transmission uses a gear shift in the center console between the two front seats as well as a third pedal — the clutch — on the floor below.

When the driver pulls away, brings the car to a stop, or wants to shift gears, they must press down on this pedal. The driver also uses the stick shift to change to a higher or lower gear, depending on the car’s speed. Today, fewer vehicles have manual transmissions.

Advantages of this transmission include:

• Is usually less expensive to replace and fix.
• Gives vehicles a better resale value.
• The driver can be more engaged and has more control.
• Lower price tag

Automatic Transmission

On the other end of the spectrum is automatic transmission. It does not require any input from the driver to shift gears. This happens automatically. There is no stick shift or clutch pedal either. This is the most common type of transmission.

Here are some benefits of having an automatic transmission.

• Smooth and seamless shifting.
• Performs well in city traffic and stop-and-start traffic.
• Is easy to learn. There are no steps for the driver to perform to shift gears when speeding up or slowing down.
• Is available in more models than other types.

Semi-Automatic Transmission

A middle-ground transmission is a semi-automatic transmission. It does require the driver to shift gears, though it is an option. However, the driver does not use a stick shift and clutch pedal to do this. Instead, the driver uses paddles or buttons on the steering wheel to shift.

Some advantages to using this type:

• Offers great control
• Is standard on high-performance vehicles
• Is not difficult to learn
• Has good fuel economy

Continuously Variable Transmission

A continuously variable transmission is more common on smaller vehicles than on other models. Also called CVT, this type does not use fixed gears like the three different types. Instead, it uses a belt and pulley system and infinite gear ratios. There is no manual shifting at all.

The following are some advantages of CVT:

• Easy to learn
• Delivers excellent fuel efficiency so that you will spend less on gas each month.
• Offers smooth driving.
• Are lighter because this transmission has fewer parts

Shop Your Next Vehicle at Sparks Toyota

When you are ready to shop for a new vehicle, don’t forget to look closely at these four types of transmissions. Different customers will have other preferences, but you can choose the transmission you like, whether it’s manual, automatic, semi-automatic, or CVT.

You can shop with confidence at Sparks Toyota in Myrtle Beach, SC, knowing that our team can help you choose something you are comfortable with. Visit us today and explore the inventory and the different types of transmission.