Automatic cars are becoming increasingly popular thanks to their driving comfort and ease of use. However, some mechanics such as Laurent Vercoutre, a mechanic at Baie-Saint-Paul, warn that they are not necessarily the best choice for everyone. From the complexity of repairs to fuel consumption, this is why it may be wise to think carefully before opting for an automatic transmission.
Risks associated with the purchase of an automatic car
More expensive and complex repairs
Automatic transmissions are more sophisticated than manual transmissions, which means that their repair and maintenance are often more expensive and complicated.
More moving parts: torque converters, electronic sensors, hydraulic pumps, etc., all components that can wear or break down.
More expensive workforce: the necessary repairs of specialized mechanics, which increases the cost of interventions.
Parts that are more difficult to find: unlike manual transmissions, the parts of the automatic transmissions are specific to each model and sometimes expensive.
Namely: a complete replacement for automatic transmission can cost between 3,000 and 7,000 dollars, while that of a manual transmission generally costs less than 2,000 dollars.
Often higher fuel consumption
Automatic cars tend to consume more fuel than manual cars, especially for older models.
Why?
Less efficient transmission: an automatic motor must provide more power to operate, which increases consumption.
Less optimised gear shift: an automatic transmission itself decides when it is shifting the speeds, sometimes less cost-effectively than a driver experienced in a manual gearbox.
Exceptions:
The new CVT (continuous variation) and double clutch transmissions are more efficient and can compete with manual fuel consumption gearboxes.
Loss of driving sensation
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