Automatic cars are becoming increasingly popular due to their driving comfort and ease of use. However, some mechanics like Laurent Vercoutre, a mechanic in Baie-Saint-Paul, warn that they are not necessarily the best choice for everyone. From the complexity of repairs to fuel consumption, here’s why it may be wise to think carefully before opting for an automatic transmission. The
risks of buying a car with an automatic transmission
More expensive and complex repairs
Automatic transmissions are more sophisticated than manual transmissions, which means that they are often more expensive and complicated to repair and maintain.
More moving parts: torque converters, electronic sensors, hydraulic pumps… all components that are likely to wear out or break down.
More expensive labor: repairs required by specialized mechanics, which increases the cost of interventions.
Parts harder to find: unlike manual transmissions, automatic transmission parts are specific to each model and sometimes expensive.
Note: A complete automatic transmission replacement can cost between €3,000 and €7,000, while a manual transmission replacement typically costs less than €2,000.
Often higher fuel consumption
Automatic cars tend to consume more fuel than manual cars, especially older models.
Why?
Less efficient transmission: An automatic engine has to provide more power to operate, which increases consumption.
Less optimized gear changes: An automatic transmission decides for itself when to shift gears, sometimes less economically than an experienced driver with a manual transmission.
Exceptions:
The new CVT (continuously variable transmission) and dual-clutch transmissions are more efficient and can compete with manual gearboxes in terms of consumption.
A loss of driving sensations
For car enthusiasts, an automatic transmission can give the impression of not being in full control of the vehicle.
Less engagement: In a manual transmission, each gear change is a conscious action by the driver. With an automatic, it is the computer that decides.
Less control in sporty driving or in the mountains: On winding roads or in dynamic driving, a manual transmission offers more responsiveness and sensations.
Less driving pleasure: Some drivers find that an automatic transmission makes driving more monotonous.
Alternative: Some automatic vehicles are equipped with steering wheel paddles that allow partial control over the transmission to be regained.
An accumulated risk of electronic failures
Modern automatic transmissions are heavily reliant on electronics, which can be problematic if they fail.
Examples of common problems:
Malfunctioning sensors causing erratic gear changes.
Failure of the electronic control unit (ECU), sometimes requiring costly replacement.
Sensitivity to weather conditions: Some cars automatically react poorly to extreme temperatures.
Consequence:
An electronic failure can completely immobilize the vehicle, requiring complex and expensive diagnostics.
A dependency on specialist garages
Unlike manual cars, automatic transmission repairs cannot be done by just any mechanic.
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