The gearbox in the car: what it is, types, pros and cons

In order for the car to move, the motor produces energy. And how is it transmitted to the wheels, making them rotate at the desired speed? To do this, a gearbox is used - the second most important node in the system of the car. Let's look at the types of gearboxes, their pros and cons.

What is a gearbox in a car

The gearbox is a device that regulates the transfer of energy from the car engine to the wheels. It balances the speed of rotation of the motor and the wheels according to the tasks: starting, driving at high speed, braking. This is to ensure that the motor power is sufficient, but the fuel consumption is not excessive.

The driver controls this process with levers or everything happens automatically. The design of the gearbox varies, which affects steering, fuel consumption and the durability of the system.

Types of gearboxes

Four types of gearboxes are installed in cars:

• A manual gearbox includes several gears, the position of which is fixed by a lever. There are usually six gears available for adjustment. It is a simple and reliable design. However, in city conditions, when it is necessary to frequently change gears manually with the lever, such a system is not convenient.
• The automatic transmission consists of a torque converter with a turbine, pump and stator. Inside it is oil, the flow of which activates the rotation of the stator wheel, the turbine, and so transmits the torque from the engine to the wheels. This system replaces the clutch. The driver does not need to shift speeds, the option of increased cross-country capability of the machine in sand and snow is available. The disadvantage of this device is the expensive repair, and the fuel consumption is 10-15% higher than with the mechanical system.
• Robotic gearbox combines the functionality of manual and automatic systems. Gears are shifted smoothly, fuel is consumed economically. However, the system is sensitive to road conditions and has low reliability.
• The variator transmission consists of a torque converter, two pulleys and a belt attached to them. The position of the pulleys adjusts the radius of the belt, which transmits the energy of the motor to the wheels. The system is electronically controlled and shifts seamlessly, without jerking. Variator transmission does not work with powerful motors, its maintenance and repair is expensive, there is sensitivity to road conditions.

Which gearbox for the car is better, it is impossible to say unequivocally. Each is suitable for certain conditions and the ability of the driver to control the transmission.

When shifting gears of a manual transmission, you always feel a jerk. The driver is required to be attentive and understand when and to what position the lever should be moved. The automatic transmission is easy to drive for beginners, in the conditions of the busy traffic in the city. It is suitable for those who find it difficult to control the process of manual transmission control.