What's My Transmission Made Of?

Automatic transmissions aren’t well understood outside of specialists like our technicians here at A1 Automotive Center in Eustis, FL. While it would be impossible to teach you enough to make you a transmission expert in a quick article, what we can do is give you the fundamental knowledge you need to have a good idea of what your transmission is doing and how it works. Being able to understand how your transmission works will help you identify any problems that may arise to prevent further wear and tear on your vehicle.

To many people, a transmission is simply witchcraft. However, while there are complex components at play, the basics are actually pretty simple. Anyone can learn enough about an automatic transmission to have a pretty good idea of how one works. At A1 Automotive Center, we believe that the best way to keep your car running at its best is if we are all on the same side. You're keeping your eyes and ears open, and so are we.

Essentially, all a transmission does is change the gear ratio that drives your car, so you have acceleration and power at your disposal when you need it, selected automatically by a series of inputs generated by hitting the gas, going up a hill and so on. It’s all heavily dependent on signals either electronic or analog, and everything relies on fluid pressure and when and where it’s applied. Everything in a transmission is essentially centered around applying fluid at the right moment, with the right force, to engage or disengage different rotating gears. There are parts that do work, and there are parts that provide the means to apply that work efficiently. Your transmission doesn’t have to be an enigma.

Though this information may not have you ready to tear down and build your own transmission, it will give you a better idea of what’s going on with your transmission, and how to know if something isn’t right. At A1 Automotive Center in Eustis, FL, we know that with some basic knowledge about your car, truck or SUV, it makes it easier for us to partner with you in keeping your vehicle running at its best.