Which Transmission Type is Right for You in Fort Walton Beach, FL

Discover Which Transmission Type Fits Your Driving Style

It’s not always easy to select what car you want to buy. With so many factors to consider, you might feel overwhelmed. Your task is much easier when you shop at Lee Nissan. Our committed sales associates will help you every step of the way through the shopping process. We can even recommend what transmission is right for you and show you which cars in our inventory have which transmission types.

The transmission plays a vital role in your vehicle’s operation and performance. Your car can’t run unless the transmission is working properly. This system sends the power your engine creates to the wheels so the car can move. There are four popular types of transmission: manual, automatic, continuously variable, and semi-automatic. You can find benefits with each one and reasons why each might be good to have.

Manual Transmission

Manual transmission is less common than it once was, but it’s still available on some trucks, SUVs, and sports cars. It is the most difficult to learn and use; however, many people still prefer this style.

Manual transmission requires the driver’s input and intervention. The driver uses two devices to manually shift from gear to gear. First, the driver uses the stick shift, which is located in the center console between the two front seats. There are usually five speeds on a stick shift, which the driver moves into the appropriate position when speeding up or slowing down. At the same time, the driver presses down on the clutch pedal, which is on the floor next to the brake.

Here are some benefits of using manual transmission:

• Manual transmission allows the driver to have direct input in the transmission process.
• Manual transmission is less expensive to fix than other transmission types.
• Manual transmission vehicles are less expensive than those with other transmissions.
• Vehicles with manual transmission have good fuel economy.

Automatic Transmission

An automatic transmission is quite different from a manual transmission, as it doesn’t require the driver to do anything to make it work. Consequently, there is no stick shift or clutch pedal in automatic transmission vehicles. Everything in the process happens automatically.

The benefits of an automatic transmission include the following:

• An automatic transmission is easy to learn, as the driver doesn’t have to take any steps to operate it.
• This transmission is seamless and smooth.
• An automatic transmission works effectively in stop-and-go city traffic.
• It can be safer to use this transmission because the driver doesn’t have to multitask by manually shifting or using a third pedal.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

Continuously variable transmission, or CVT, works differently than the other types. Instead of using gear to send power to the wheels, it relies on a system of belts and pulleys. There are also infinite gear ratios. This is a type of automatic transmission, so there is no clutch pedal or stick shift.

Some benefits of a CVT are as follows:

• A CVT gives the driver good control of the vehicle.
• A CVT has good fuel economy.
• There are fewer parts on a CVT, so it can be easier and less expensive to maintain and repair.
• A CVT helps the car to accelerate well.

Semi-Automatic Transmission

A semi-automatic transmission combines the elements of a manual and automatic transmission. Instead of requiring the driver to use a stick shift and clutch pedal, there are paddles or buttons on or near the steering wheel to shift from gear to gear. There is no clutch pedal, however, as this part of the process is automatic.

You’ll find these advantages to having a semi-automatic transmission:

• It’s not as hard to learn and use as manual transmission.
• Drivers have direct input over when to shift and what gears to shift to.
• A semi-automatic transmission is good with high-performance vehicles such as sports cars.

Come Shop Your Next Vehicle at Lee Nissan

When you shop with us at Lee Nissan in Fort Walton Beach, FL, you will appreciate our wide vehicle selection and superb customer service. We can answer any questions you have, including how transmission types work and which ones are available on our models. We can help you select one that makes the most sense for your needs and driving style. Stop by our dealership today so we can help you find your next vehicle.