Myths UK Drivers Still Believe.

The UK public has very limited knowledge of automotives and even less about their vehicle’s gearboxes. Whilst roughly 87% of the public know how to perform basic tasks like oil checks, roughly 56% of the UK’s drivers don’t even know what an automatic transmission is and less than 24% would know what to do if their cars broke down. This is why gearbox specialists like A1 Premier Transmissions are so valuable to the drivers on England’s roads.

To fix some common misconceptions about gearboxes, we asked our specialist technicians about the 7 most common gearbox myths:
 

• Myth: Transmission fluid never needs to be changed.
• Fact: Like engine oil, transmission fluid degrades over time and can cause overheating, reduced efficiency, and wear. Regular gearbox oil changes are essential, and what is recommended by the manufacturer should be followed. A fluid flush is not the same as a fluid change; a flush removes nearly all old fluid and contaminants, while a change replaces about half.

• Myth: Slipping in an old car is normal.
• Fact: Slipping, where the engine revs without immediate response, is a sign of a problem, not normal aging. It can indicate low fluid, worn-out parts, or other issues that need to be addressed.

• Myth: Manual transmissions are always more fuel-efficient than automatics.
• Fact: This was true in the past, but modern automatics often match or exceed manual efficiency due to features like more gears, lock-up torque converters, and computer controls. Some modern automatics, like CVTs, can be more fuel-efficient.

• Myth: Driving with your hand on the shifter in an automatic is bad for the transmission.
• Fact: This myth applies only to manual transmissions, where the shifter is directly connected to the gear mechanism. In an automatic, the shifter operates a cable, and resting your hand on it has no negative effect on the transmission itself.

• Myth: Neutral is better than Drive at a red light.
• Fact: Shifting to neutral does not save fuel or reduce wear significantly. Frequent shifting between neutral and drive can actually put more strain on the transmission over time.

• Myth: Automatic transmissions are less reliable than manual ones.
• Fact: Modern automatic transmissions are highly reliable, often as durable as manuals, and some are more so when properly maintained. Failure is typically due to neglect or poor maintenance, not the design itself.

• Myth: Automatic transmissions don't have clutches.
• Fact: This is not true for all automatics. While a torque converter automatic uses hydraulic pressure, a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) uses clutches that function similarly to a manual car, but they are computer-controlled. 

Transmission specialists frequently hear the same myths from UK motorists, so it’s important to debunk any and all incorrect information.

Choose Expertise over Brand. Choose A1 Premier Transmissions.

For gearbox repairs, rebuilds, diagnostics, and transmission faults, specialist garages like A1 Premier Transmissions offer the expertise, value, and personalised service that main dealers simply can’t deliver.

Get your gearbox fixed by the experts and book with A1 Premier Transmissions! Book online or speak to a specialist on 01767 669575 today!