The popularity of manual versus automatic transmissions varies by country. Semi-automatic transmissions were developed as a cheaper, more fuel-efficient version of automatic transmissions. Many automatic transmission owners wonder if they can use manual transmission fluid in their automatic transmission. Find out in this article.
Semi-automatic transmissions (SAT) or automated manual transmissions (AMT) use the same clutch and gear settings as manual transmission systems, but the shifting and operation of the clutches is automatic. The complete process of opening the clutch, shifting to another gear and closing the clutch is electronically controlled.
AMT was originally developed as a more affordable and fuel-efficient alternative to automatic transmissions. They are even more fuel efficient than manual transmissions. Since the design and technology are fairly simple, they are also relatively cheap to repair.
Uses of manual transmission fluid
Manual transmissions are used to limit the interior temperature, preventing the car from overheating. Second, it is used for lubrication purposes to avoid gear wear.
Over time, manual transmission fluid can become contaminated with metal shavings and other debris as transmission components such as gears and bearings slowly age. This can affect the quality of the fluid and even damage your engine. That's why it's important to check your car's fluids regularly. Because the fluid in a manual transmission can be difficult to check, we recommend having it checked by a qualified auto mechanic.
Uses of automatic transmission fluid
Similar to manual transmission fluid, automatic transmission fluid is used to lubricate and clean car transmissions. On top of that, they also power your transmission by sending power from your vehicle's engine to your tires.
Automatic transmission fluid heats up and breaks down more easily than manual transmission fluid. As with manual transmission fluid, metal debris from engine parts can contaminate the fluid, causing potential damage to the engine.
Make sure to check the fluid quality regularly with a transmission dipstick. While automatic transmission fluid is easier to check than manual transmission fluid, we recommend checking your manual or contacting your trusted auto mechanic.
Automatic transmission fluid in a manual transmission?
Initially, manual transmission fluid has a very low viscosity. This makes shifting more difficult, especially in cold environments. To avoid this, more and more manual and automated manual transmissions have been switched to automatic transmission fluid.
Manual transmissions can accept a variety of fluids: regular motor oil, automatic transmission fluid, or heavy hypoid gear oil.
(Automatic) manual transmission fluid in an automatic transmission?
Automatic transmissions use a special transmission fluid that serves a dual purpose: lubricates moving parts like engine oil, and keeps the transmission from overheating like coolant. Unlike manual transmissions, it is critical to use the recommended ATF for automatic transmissions. It is not possible to use (automatic) manual transmission fluid in an automatic transmission.
