Debunking Car Transmission Myths

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There is a lot of mystery and misinformation surrounding automatic transmissions, even within the automotive industry.  While some of these myths might have been true decades ago, modern technology has helped to level out the performance disparity between automatic and manual transmissions. Today’s blog is going to take a closer look at common transmission myths and the facts that will debunk them. 

 

Automatic transmissions are sealed units that are neither serviceable nor repairable.

It all depends on finding the right technician. Even though it seems like the only fix for a problem with an automatic transmission is a complete replacement of the unit, they are repairable and can benefit from being serviced. Those who don’t work with automatics can find the task daunting and nigh impossible, but for those who do, the task is still difficult because it’s easy for things to go wrong. The reason for this is that automatic transmissions contain a lot of small parts that are easily forgotten, so many mechanics don’t like to work on them. 

 

Cars with manual transmissions always cost less than their automatic counterparts.

While cars with manual transmissions tend to cost less, this isn’t always true. Consumer Reports notes that buying a car with a manual transmission can help consumers save between $8,000 and $12,000, but a number of cars on the market today, such as BMWs and GM models, cost the same regardless of their transmission. The maintenance cost of automatic transmissions may be higher, but better design has helped them to last the life of the vehicle, so long as the driver is taking care of it. Manual transmissions tend to not last as long and may need a few replacements during the car’s lifetime. Of course, this depends on the driver’s behavior and other variables as well. 

 

Automatic transmissions are less fuel-efficient than manual transmissions.

This claim is unfortunately true, however, manufacturers are closing the gap in fuel efficiency between manual and automatic transmissions. That being said, manual transmissions tend to beat automatics in fuel efficiency by a small margin in most cases. At its simplest, the problem boils down to weight and friction. Automatics are heavier than manual transmissions, which require more work and thus require more fuel. Depending on the abilities of the driver, though, automatics can be more efficient at times by switching gears at the most efficient time as opposed to manual if the driver isn’t good at hitting the optimal shift time. 

Debunking five enduring myths about car maintenance

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carl-turnley-maintenanceCaring for our cars and trucks can often be frustrating. There are so many myths and rumors that it’s difficult to know what is the right thing to do for your vehicle. While a specific problem may require the assistance of a mechanic, these five tips can help you keep your car in a healthier state for longer.

You Probably Don’t Need Premium Fuel

Most people go for the higher octane fuel when they gas up at the pump, because they think it’s better for their car. This is just another urban myth. Unless your owner’s manual specifies the need for a higher octane fuel, regular unleaded will be just as good.

You Don’t Need to Change All Four Tires at Once

This is another car care myth that has been passed down through generations, but you shouldn’t feel obligated to follow it. What you do need to do is ensure all four tires are of the same brand and model. Also, check to make sure you’re always using the right size tire.

Leaving Your Tailgate Down Does Nothing for Fuel Efficiency

In a research project, Popular Mechanics tested the effects of driving various pick-up trucks with the tailgate down. This was in response to a theory that driving with the tailgate down helped conserve gas. In truth, this had no effect on fuel efficiency. However, the study did find that removing the tailgate altogether did help conserve gas. This was true even when the tailgate was replaced with mesh netting.

An Oil Change Isn’t an Excuse to Change Coolant

Many mechanics recommend changing coolant fluid and air filters, during an oil change. While this certainly benefits the mechanic, it doesn’t necessarily do much for your vehicle. Instead of taking your mechanic’s word for it, consult the vehicle owner’s manual to find out exactly how long your vehicle can go without changing coolant fluid and air filters.

An Electric Car is a Fire Risk

There’s a rumor going around that the new electrically powered vehicles are more likely to catch fire. Some people actually avoid buying electric cars, because they fear a random electrical fire. According to a report published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, electric cars are no more likely to catch fire than gas-powered vehicles.

Since most people aren’t mechanics, it’s easy to come across a multitude of myths and rumors about proper car care. Before buying into anything that you hear, it’s a good idea to research the rumor for yourself. Often consulting your owner’s manual can help you settle questions or concerns you have about your vehicle.

Avoiding Common F1 Racing Mistakes

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auto-racing

Formula One racing is exciting. Drivers race around the twisting and turning tracks to gain position and obtain a coveted place on the podium. Each year, there are a few new drivers in Formula One as some drivers retire and others realize that they just don’t measure up. It is important for new drivers to learn from the mistakes of others so that they have the potential for a long and successful Formula One career.

In Formula One racing, initial race position is of critical importance. The best racers on the best teams will do everything in their power to hold off drivers trying to come up from the back of the pack. Unless there is an accident or major error by a driver in the front two rows, those in the back of the pack rarely win a Formula One race.

New drivers should make sure to drive to the best of their abilities during the qualifying rounds. Any let down in performance will result in a poor starting position and few race points.

Another key for a new driver is to get the most out of the best tires for the track. Formula One drivers are required to use two different types of tires during the course of the race. One type is usually a hard tire while the other is a soft or super soft tire.

Invariably, one type of tire will perform better on a track on a given day. It is important that the driver make the most of the drive time available on the better performing tire.

A new driver to Formula One needs to make sure that all of the intangibles are working in his favor. Everything in Formula One is calculated by the team. The team engineers know just how much fuel is needed, when to make a pit stop and how the car needs to be set up for the race.

A new driver needs to make sure to listen to the team at all times. It’s vital that a driver get in for pit stops when they’re called by the team. Any mistake can cost position and points.

Finally, a new driver should review as much film as possible of previous races on a track. This is the next best thing to on track experience. Seeing how great drivers of the past raced is an important learning experience.