What Do I Need To Know About Today's Automatic Transaxles And Transmissions?

Today’s car and truck automatic transmissions are the most complicated and least understood major component. In later model car and truck transmissions use a combination of sophisticated hydraulics and computer controlled parts and components. Front wheel drive automatic transmission car and trucks incorporate the third major component the differential. Front wheel drive automatic transmissions are known as transaxles. The differential or final drive is incorporated in the body of the automatic transmission itself. Front wheel drive automatic transmissions configuration is efficient in terms of fuel economy, handling and manufacturing costs, however, with the additional parts and components housed within the transaxle unit, when it fails, it is generally more expensive to repair. An automatic transmission / transaxle properly rebuilt can deliver longevity equal to or in excess of your car or trucks original transmission / transaxle.

For cars and trucks used in severe driving conditions, there are additional precautions which can be taken to insure against premature transmission / transaxle failure and make a car or truck better able to deliver the performance the driver wants in these unusual driving conditions. Some severe driving conditions include heavy city, stop and go driving, regular mountainous driving, pulling heavy loads, unusually warm climate, and trailer towing. Under these severe conditions it may be advisable to install a transmission external cooler or updated valve body shift kit.

If you subject your car or truck to these types of driving conditions, please feel free to contact the transmission specialist at Sergeant Clutch in San Antonio, Texas. We will be pleased to make the appropriate recommendations to insure that your car or trucks automatic transmission / transaxle meets all your needs and wants.