Transmission Types in Omaha, NE

Discover Which Transmission Type Fits Your Driving Style

When you shop for a car today, you can find one of four transmission types available: manual, automatic, continuously variable automatic, and semi-automatic. Each type has benefits, and each has some similarities and differences from one another. What suits one driver most may not be the best for someone else.

When you’re considering what transmission makes the most sense for you, you’ll want something you’re comfortable with and are confident in using. When you visit the O’Daniel Honda dealership, our team will help you find a vehicle with the transmission type you want.

Manual Transmission

Manual transmission requires more hands-on intervention from the driver than any other type. This type is often called “stick shift” due to the device in the middle console of the vehicle between the two seats. The stick shift allows the driver to change from one gear to the next as the vehicle increases in speed or slows down. The driver must manually change gears.

In addition, manual transmission vehicles have a third pedal on the floor, located to the left of the brake pedal. This is the clutch, which the driver presses with their left foot when changing gears or pulling away in the vehicle.

Manual transmission can be challenging to learn, especially for first-time drivers. It’s also much less common on cars than it once was. Nevertheless, there are some benefits, including the following:

• Cars with manual transmission tend to cost less than those with other types.
• It is generally less expensive to repair manual transmission than other transmission types.
• Cars with manual transmission have better fuel economy.
• Manual transmission allows the driver to be more engaged and directly involved with the process.

Automatic Transmission

The most common type of transmission is automatic transmission. It is available in more cars than the other three types. You can find automatic sedans, compact models, SUVs, trucks, and vans. It is the opposite of manual transmission because it requires nothing on the part of the driver to operate. The car will automatically shift gears when necessary, so there is no stick shift or clutch pedal.

The following benefits appeal to drivers:

• An automatic transmission is easy to learn and operate, as it requires no extra steps for the driver.
• An automatic transmission is smooth and seamless.
• An automatic transmission works well in city traffic.
• Because there is no going back and forth from the stick shift to the wheel, the driver can keep their hands on the steering wheel at all times, making it a safer choice.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

This is a newer type of transmission. A continuously variable transmission, or CVT, is often on smaller vehicles. Instead of relying on gear, it uses a belt-and-pulley system to work. It also has infinite gear ratios. Like automatic transmission, it uses no stick shift or clutch pedal.

A CVT offers the following advantages:

• A CVT gives the driver reasonable control.
• Vehicles with CVT have excellent fuel economy.
• Cars with CVT provide a smooth ride in any condition.

Semi-Automatic Transmission

People who are interested in having some control over the transmission but want an easier learning curve should try a semi-automatic transmission. It incorporates steps and principles from both manual and automatic transmission. A semi-automatic transmission doesn’t have a clutch pedal, as this process is automatic. However, drivers can shift from one gear to the next but do so not with a stick shift but with paddles or buttons on the steering wheel.

The following are some benefits of a semi-automatic:

• A semi-automatic transmission gives the driver great control over the vehicle.
• This transmission is good for high-performance vehicles.
• It is easier to learn than manual transmission but allows for more interaction with the car than an automatic transmission.

Shop Your Next Vehicle at O’Daniel Honda

As you shop for a new car to drive, make sure to consider the transmission. It makes a difference to have the transmission type that fits your driving style. When you visit the showroom of O’Daniel Honda in Omaha, NE, we’ll help you find a model that comes with the transmission type you want. Stop by today so we can get you into the right vehicle.