How to tell how many speeds my transmission has

Whether you're simply curious about your vehicle's transmission specifications or have been experiencing some transmission issues you can't seem to diagnose on your own, understanding your transmission type, how it operates, and how many speeds it has will come in handy one way or another. To learn more about your vehicle's transmission, take a peek at our all-inclusive guide below.

What is a vehicle's transmission?

First things first, what is a vehicle transmission? And what exactly does a transmission do? Simply put, your transmission is one of the most important parts of any vehicle. A transmission consists of a gearbox with between five and six gear sets and gear trains. The gears and trains enable you, as the driver, to adjust the amount of power exerted when you press the gas pedal.

Within your gearbox is a gear lever. This gear lever is in charge of choosing each gear and making them come into contact. When this lever has been engaged, clutch plates are moved into place. Afterwards, the clutch plates move larger gears, creating contact once again with the vehicle's differential. Once the larger gears are connected and the car is moving, the gear lever will be able to enable the gears at various times.

History of vehicle transmissions

Let's explore the evolution of vehicle transmissions through a detailed timeline. These advancements have significantly shaped driving technology over the years. Understanding these changes helps us appreciate how vehicles have become more efficient and user-friendly:

1. Early 1900s: Early vehicles had single-speed transmissions. This means that early drivers had little control over how much speed their car had, or power distribution throughout their car in general.
2. 1930s: This is when three-speed manual transmissions were introduced, which allowed for better power regulation, in turn improving vehicle performance.
3. 1950s-1960s: This is when automatic transmissions became more accessible to everyday drivers, along with four-speed automatic transmissions, which offered a smoother drive and better fuel efficiency.
4. 1990s-2000s: With automotive advancements on the rise, this period is when continuous variable transmissions and dual-clutch transmissions were introduced. Continuous variable transmissions allowed for seamless gear changes and improved efficiency, while dual-clutch transmissions enhanced sports car performance.
5. Today: Modern vehicles today feature advanced automatic transmissions, with many cars featuring 8-,9, and 10-speed gearboxes. These additional gears help improve acceleration, fuel economy, and engine efficiency by keeping the engine itself in an optimal power range. Additionally, hybrid and electric vehicles have further revolutionized transmissions, by using single-speed gearboxes or drive units that are electronically controlled.

Why transmissions matter

Understanding the importance of transmissions is crucial, and we'll explore the reasons in detail below. Transmissions play a vital role in vehicle performance and efficiency. By harnessing their potential, you can enhance driving experience and longevity:

Power regulation

Transmissions adjust a car's gear ratios to ensure that the vehicle's engine is able to deliver power smoothly and efficiently.

Fuel efficiency

Having a vehicle with a higher gear count can help reduce fuel consumption, making a vehicle more efficient with gas.

Performance and driving experience

Transmissions also affect how a vehicle drives, including how well it accelerates, handles, and tows.

Transmission type impacts reliability

Manual transmissions are often simpler and more durable, which will require fewer repairs over the years. That said, when properly maintained, an automatic transmission can last just as long and even provide a smoother driving experience.

Transmission technology advancements

Vehicles today use adaptive transmission systems that can learn a driver's behaviour to optimize gear shifting. Some sports cars also feature paddle shifters, allowing drivers to manually control automatic transmissions.

Types of vehicle transmissions

Different types of transmissions exist, and the one your vehicle has will depend on your vehicle's make and model, as well as where your car was manufactured. Here's a closer look at the different types:

Manual transmission vehicle

Manual transmission vehicles have been around since the first-ever vehicles were invented. Also known as "driving stick," a manual transmission vehicle features a clutch pedal, along with a gas and brake pedal. The clutch pedal is responsible for controlling how much torque transfers from your engine to the actual transmission.

To operate a manual transmission vehicle, drivers must manually shift between the different gears as they drive, giving them more control over operating their vehicles. If you do opt for a manual vehicle, keep in mind that there will be a bit of a learning curve. However, once you master how to change gears and use your clutch pedal, you'll be good to travel wherever you want and drive whatever vehicle you want!

One major advantage of manual transmissions is their durability. Because they have fewer moving parts, they generally last longer than automatic transmissions with the right maintenance. They're also preferred by car enthusiasts due to their ability to provide greater control on the power output and acceleration of the vehicle. That said, when there's traffic congestion, the stop-and-go traffic can be a hassle, as you need to constantly shift to different gears.

Automatic transmission

Next, we have the automatic transmission. The main difference between a manual and automatic transmission is that drivers won't be required to manually shift between gears to operate their motor vehicle. Instead, an automatic transmission automatically changes gears as needed while you are on the road.

With no learning curve required, this type of transmission enables you to pay more attention to the road ahead. Essentially, once you put your vehicle in drive, your vehicle's transmission will kick into gear and determine what gear it needs to be at depending on how fast you are driving.

Modern, automatic transmissions now feature software that adapts to different types of driving styles. This optimizes shift timing, which in turn, improves fuel efficiency and vehicle performance. They are also way easier to drive. But, a downfall to these transmissions is that they are more expensive to repair.

Continuously variable transmission (CVT)

The final transmission type is a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This type of vehicle transmission is also referred to as a shiftless car transmission, given that they don't use gears to generate different vehicle speeds.

Okay, so how exactly does this type of transmission work? Essentially, these transmissions work using a belt-driven design made of two rubber or metal pulleys. These pulleys imitate the process that occurs when a vehicle's transmission gears are working, making your driving experience smoother.

Another benefit that these types of transmissions offer is that it is typically found in more fuel-efficient vehicles, which is great if you travel long distances each day. However, it's important to note that while these transmissions are more fuel-efficient, they aren't meant to be driven on off-road terrain. Additionally, despite being fuel-efficient, CTVs are often criticized for their loud engine sound and delayed throttle response. At the same time, because they have a unique belt system, they can be costly to replace. Further, a newer development in CVTs is the introduction of simulated "shift points," which mimic traditional gear changes to improve the driver's experience.

Dual-clutch transmission (DCT)

A dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is a hybrid manual and automatic transmission. IT has two separate clutches: one for odd-numbered gears and another for even-numbered gears. This allows for more seamless and rapid gear shifts, which are found in performance and sports cars where quick acceleration is needed.

Ultimately, DCTs provide better fuel efficiency, but they can be jerky in stop-and-go traffic. Additionally, when the clutch wears down or breaks, repairs are quite expensive.

How to identify your transmission specifications

Now that we know a little bit more about what a vehicle's transmission is, what it does, and the different transmission types, let's get into how you can identify the transmission type your specific vehicle is:

The owner's manual

When in doubt, if you're looking for more information about your vehicle in general and its transmission, check your owner's manual. Most of the time, drivers tend to store their owner's manual in their glove box or trunk. The owner's manual contains basic information about your vehicle, such as your engine specifications, model year, what transmission fluid your vehicle needs, and other details about your vehicle.

Driver's side door

If you can't locate your owner's manual in your vehicle or online, the next place you can look is your driver's side door. There should be a white label posted on the door that contains information like your vehicle identification number and a transmission tag. This transmission tag should look like a code with TR in front of it. With this code, you can then call your dealership or a mechanic. With this code, they can search for your manufacturer and determine your transmission type accordingly.

Oil pan or under the hood

Under the hood of your vehicle. There should be another sticker on the hood that has details about your transmission. Alternatively, if you look under your car for the oil pan, if it's an odd shape, it's likely a manual transmission.

Using your vehicle identification number (VIN)

If, for some reason, the details on your label under the hood or on your door do not list a code, you can use your vehicle's VIN as well when determining the transmission. Your vehicle identification number (VIN) provides a unique identifier for your vehicle and can be used to check vehicle specifications, including its transmission type. Many auto manufacturers and third-party services offer VIN decoding, which will provide you with this information.

Other ways to identify your transmission type

Determining your vehicle's transmission type can be essential for maintenance and repair purposes. While checking the owner's manual is a straightforward option, there are several other methods to identify your transmission type such as:

• Transmission dipstick: Some automatic transmissions feature a dipstick that's labelled with the transmission type. This is usually located under the hood of your car, near the engine.
• Transmission casing: Certain shapes or markings on your transmission pan casing can also identify the type. Manual transmissions often have a bell housing that is different from an automatic's torque converter housing.
• Call your manufacturer or dealership: Dealerships can decode VINs to help you determine the type of transmission model you have. You can also call the manufacturer directly for assistance.
• Use an online VIN decoder: Websites like Carfax can pull up vehicle details, including transmission specifications when you enter your VIN, which is an easier alternative than physically checking your vehicle yourself.

What are transmission speeds?

When it comes to transmission speed, we're referring to the total number of gears, or "speeds," it has. Each speed represents a single gear that controls how the car's power is funnelled to each wheel.

For example, a transmission with 6-speeds has six distinct gears. Lower gears help a car accelerate from a stopped position, while higher gear ratios help the vehicle when it's travelling at higher speeds.

The evolution of transmission speeds

Since the invention of the vehicle, transmissions have also evolved significantly as manufacturers endeavour to improve performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency. While modern cars can feature up to 10-speed transmissions, this wasn't always the case. Take a closer look at the overall evolution of transmission speeds below:

1930s-1980s: 3 and 4-speed transmissions

We'll explore how transmission speeds evolved from the 1930s to the 1980s, focusing on 3 and 4-speed transmissions:

• Most vehicles in the 1930s had cars with 3-speed manual transmissions. This provided basic power delivery and control over speed.
• By the 1950s and well into the 1980s, 4-speed transmissions became more common, which made driving smoother and more convenient for commuters.
• Earlier transmissions were more effective and useful for city driving.
• Driving on the highway led to higher fuel consumption.

1990s-2010s: 5 and 6-speed transmissions

We'll explore how transmission speeds evolved from the 1930s to the 1990s-2010s: 5 and 6-speed transmissions.

• During the 1990s, 5-speed transmissions became standard in most vehicles, which improved efficiency.
• By the 2000s and 2010s, 6-speed transmissions came onto the scene and quickly gained popularity, mainly because they offered a smoother ride and improved fuel efficiency for highway drivers.
• These transmission speeds also improved sports car performance.

2010s-present: 7, 8, 9, 10-speed transmissions

We'll explore how transmission speeds evolved from the 2010s-present: 7, 8, 9, 10-speed transmissions.

• Modern vehicles now have transmission speeds that range from 7 to 10.
• This allows for faster acceleration, better fuel efficiency, and less strain on the engine components.
• Some examples of modern vehicles with varying speeds include the Ford F-150 (10-speed transmission), BMW M5 (8-speed transmission), and the Chevy Corvette (8-speed dual-clutch transmission).

What is the most common type of transmission?

In Canada, the most common type of transmission is automatic transmission, with manual transmissions being a close second. Drivers tend to prefer automatic transmissions, given that it allows for an easier driving experience. That said, most car enthusiasts tend to prefer manual versions as it gives them more control over their vehicle.

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Transmission issues and signs of failure

Recognizing early symptoms of a bad transmission in your vehicle is essential if you want to avoid substantial repair costs or the replacement of your vehicle altogether. Here are some common transmission issues and signs you need to look out for so you can keep as much money as you can in your wallet:

Causes of transmission problems

The causes of transmission problems are:

Low transmission fluid

Transmission fluid plays a role in lubricating and cooling the internal components of the transmission. When fluid levels are low, it can cause the transmission to slip, overheat, or fail entirely. Low levels can result from leaks or when the vehicle has not been maintained properly.

Worn clutch plates

Clutch plates are commonly found in manual and dual-clutch transmissions. Overtime, these plates will wear out. If they are worn, they can fail to engage and disengage properly, causing slipping gears or rough shifting. In severe cases, the gar may be unable to switch at all.

Electronic sensor malfunctions

Modern transmissions rely heavily on computer controls and sensors to manage the gear shifting. If the sensors malfunction or the transmission control unit (TCU) fails, it can cause erratic shifting, delays in gear changes, and fail to engage the gears at all.

Signs of transmission problems

Indications of transmission problems include:

Strange vehicle sounds

Strange noises from your transmission are sometimes the first warning signs of an issue. Sounds like low humming, buzzing, or whining noises while in neutral could suggest problems with the transmission's internal components, such as damaged bearings or gear teeth.

Transmission fluid leaks

Transmission fluid must be present to lubricate and cool the transmission's internal parts. If you discover a red leak under your car, it typically points to transmission problems. Leaks can create low fluid levels, resulting in overheating and a complete transmission failure.

Your transmission gears are slipping

A transmission that works properly should remain in its specified gear until an adjustment is made. If an automatic gearbox slips in and out of gear on its own, it could be a result of corrosion and wear or a more significant problem, such as a defective solenoid, damaged clutch plates, or other internal malfunctions.

It's important to note that this type of vehicle repair needs to be dealt with immediately by your dealership or mechanic as it can put you in danger while driving.

Shifting is delayed or difficult

A delay in your shifting will be most noticeable when you're shifting from park to drive or when you're trying to reverse your car. When there is a visible delay before your car begins to move or if you experience a major jolt as the transmission operates, it may be an issue with your fluid levels or other internal parts that need to be looked at.

A burning smell

A burning smell coming from the car's engine could be caused by overheated transmission fluid. This could be caused by using your vehicle often, towing loads that are too heavy for your car, or fluid loss. Both of these can cause accelerated wear and tear on your vehicle.

Check engine light is on

If your transmission caution light or check engine light is on, you should take it seriously. These lights can turn on for a variety of causes, such as sensors failing, excessive heat, or mechanical breakdowns. While it may not always be a transmission problem, it is important to identify what the cause is quickly to avoid further damage to your vehicle and your transmission.

Fluid colour changes

Normally, your transmission fluid should be a red colour. It should also give off a sweet scent when you smell it. Over time, with friction and heat, the fluid can become contaminated and break down, becoming dark brown or black. It will also smell burnt. When this occurs, you'll need to change your fluid.

How to prevent transmission issues

Below, we will list methods to help prevent transmission issues:

Check your fluid levels regularly

Make sure to check the transmission fluid levels in your car. You should aim to replace the fluid as recommended in your vehicle owner's manual. Keeping fluid levels optimal will prevent overheating and reduce friction.

Warm up your vehicle before using it

Cold temperatures can cause your transmission fluid to become thick, making it hard to shift gears. By allowing your vehicle to warm up before driving, you can prevent strain on your transmission.

Look for warning signs

Pay attention to the warning signs we've listed above. Early prevention is key to preventing expensive repairs later down the line.

What is transmission fluid and how often should I change it?

As we briefly mentioned, your transmission is equipped with fluid. This fluid is used to lubricate the gears in your transmission and keep them from overheating as your vehicles move. Beyond this, it prevents accelerated wear and tear from occurring to your transmission, which could lead to other transmission issues.

To prevent problems from arising, you need to change transmission fluid often. So, how often is it? Generally speaking, you should aim to change the fluid in your transmission every 50,000 kilometres. If you use your vehicle more often, you may want to change the fluid more frequently, given that the fluid itself is likely to have degraded at a quicker rate than for drivers who aren't on the road as much.

If you're unsure whether your transmission fluid needs changing, we suggest speaking with your dealership or asking a mechanic for assistance once your vehicle approaches the 50,000-kilometre mark.

Is a manual transmission better than an automatic transmission?

When it comes to transmissions, you may be wondering which is better: manual or automatic? The truth is that both manual and automatic transmissions have their pros and cons. And if you're in the market for a new vehicle, it's essential that you have a better understanding of these before determining which car to purchase. Here's a brief overview of manual and automatic pros and cons below:

Advantages of manual transmission vehicles

Benefits of vehicles with manual transmissions include:

• Manual transmissions are incredibly durable and meant to last.
• Manual transmissions allow drivers to have more control over their driving experience and vehicle.
• Manual transmissions also make vehicles better suited for off-road terrain than automatic ones.
• Looking to travel to Europe? The majority of vehicles overseas have manual transmissions!

Disadvantages of manual transmission vehicles

Drawbacks of manual transmission vehicles include the following:

• Learning how to drive a manual is a bit of a learning curve.
• Shifting incorrectly can damage your transmission and engine.
• Manual transmissions tend to be less fuel-efficient than automatic transmissions.

Advantages of automatic transmission vehicles

Benefits of vehicles with automatic transmissions include:

• Automatic transmissions are usually more fuel-efficient than their manual counterparts.
• There is no learning curve when it comes to operating an automatic transmission--it's all done for you!
• Instead of focusing on your clutch, you're able to focus on the road ahead, making the driving experience safer for you and your passengers.

Disadvantages of automatic transmission vehicles

Drawbacks of manual transmission vehicles include the following:

• Automatic transmissions don't tend to last as long as manual ones do.
• Automatic transmissions are more complex, which could lead to more expensive repair costs if an issue arises.
• Automatic transmission vehicles tend to cost more than manual ones.

Future of transmission technology

So, where do we go from here? What does the future hold when it comes to transmission technology? As automotive technology progresses alongside electric vehicles and artificial intelligence, experts believe that future transmissions will further focus on efficiency, adaptability, and performance, all of which are intended to enhance the overall driving experience.

Electric vehicles and transmissions

Unlike traditional vehicles that have an internal combustion engine, electric vehicles don't require multi-speed transmissions, given that the battery delivers torque instantly, regardless of speed. Instead, electric vehicles have a single-speed transmission, which reduces the overall maintenance needs of the vehicle.

However, some manufacturers like Porsche and Tesla are experimenting with multi-speed transmissions, which would ultimately allow for higher-performance EVs in the future.

Artificial intelligence and smart transmissions

As vehicles become smarter, so do their transmissions. Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming more integrated into these systems as it helps optimize driving performance and dynamics.

AI can learn a driver's habits and adjust shifting to these habits for a more responsive driving experience that maximizes fuel efficiency. You can find technology like this in luxury vehicles like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. For example, adaptive transmissions can adjust power delivery based on factors like driving conditions, driving style, and terrain to improve performance. Ultimately, these transmissions make driving more intuitive and efficient.

Protect your vehicle on and off the road with high-quality insurance coverage

If you intend to operate a motor vehicle on public roads in Canada, you must have a valid driver's licence and insurance. While the minimum coverage limits will vary between provinces and territories, certain types of auto insurance are mandatory and optional. Here's a closer look at car insurance coverage across Canada:

Mandatory insurance coverage

Owning a car comes with responsibilities, including ensuring you have the right insurance coverages to protect yourself, your vehicle, and others on the road. Mandatory insurance requirements vary, but having the appropriate coverage is crucial to avoid financial risks and legal issues. Here's a closer look at some mandatory car insurance you may want to consider:

Third-party liability insurance

Third-party liability insurance is meant to protect the policyholder's finances and interests in the event they are involved in an at-fault collision that causes bodily injuries or property damage to a third party. Should the other parties involved file a claim against you for damages, this auto policy will cover the cost of repairs, replacements, medical bills, legal fees, and other associated expenses that may arise as the result of a lawsuit up to your policy limits.

Accident benefits coverage

Recovering after an accident can be difficult, especially when it comes to incurring expenses. This is where accident benefits coverage comes into place. Accident benefits will cover the cost of medical bills, rehabilitation, and other expenses if you, your passengers, or pedestrians are injured in a motor vehicle accident, regardless of who is at fault.

Note: This insurance policy is mandatory in all provinces except Newfoundland and Labrador.

Uninsured motorist insurance

The final mandatory insurance policy for Canadian motorists is uninsured automobile insurance coverage. This insurance is intended to ensure that policyholders are fairly compensated for vehicle damage following a collision where the other driver(s) at fault are underinsured or uninsured. Additionally, this coverage will protect policyholders if they are involved in a hit-and-run collision where the other driver flees the scene.

Optional insurance coverage

Optional insurance coverages are add-on policies motorists can opt into at the time they renew their car insurance for the year. These individual policies are meant to supplement their basic coverage and offer extra peace of mind when behind the wheel. Here's a closer look at some optional car insurance you may want to consider:

Collision car coverage

Collision car coverage will cover the cost of repairs or replacements your vehicle requires following a collision you are at fault for up to your coverage limits. Before your collision coverage kicks into gear, you will need to pay a deductible to your insurance company before they will cover the remaining repairs. Deductibles typically range from $200 to $1000.

Comprehensive car coverage

Comprehensive car coverage is similar to collision in the sense that it will cover the cost of vehicle repairs and replacements if it is damaged. However, comprehensive covers non-collision instances. For example, common perils covered by comprehensive insurance include theft, vandalism, fire, fallen objects, and certain severe weather events.

Accident benefits insurance

One final type of optional car insurance coverage popular among Canadian drivers is accident forgiveness. Accident forgiveness is additional coverage that can be added to your car insurance policy as an endorsement to protect your driving record and to help prevent your insurance premium from increasing if you have an at-fault accident claim. Note: coverage varies by province.

Contact BrokerLink for affordable car insurance

Navigating the insurance world can be difficult, but with the help of BrokerLink, you can feel confident in the coverage you choose. With access to multiple auto insurance policies from some of Canada's top providers, BrokerLink helps customers find affordable insurance that meets their unique needs and budget.

If you're in the market for car insurance and want to work with an experienced broker, come visit us in person if we're in your neighbourhood. Not close by? No problem--contact us over the phone, and a team member will be happy to speak with you.

And, if you're simply browsing, take advantage of our free online quote tool to get a competitive and customized insurance quote right from the comfort of your own home!

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