Most drivers are familiar with the differences between traditional automatic and manual transmissions, however, a newer form of transmission has gained popularity in the last few decades and found its way into vehicles at various price points: the dual-clutch transmission.
Dual-clutch transmissions, or DCTs, bring a number of benefits to the table, from faster shifts to the ability to manually control gear selection. In this article, we’ll go over what dual-clutch transmissions are, what benefits they have, and what makes them different from the transmissions you see in most vehicles on the road.
What Is a Dual-Clutch Transmission
The name of DCTs tell you a lot about how they operate, as the use of two separate clutches is what make DCTs so special.
Dual-clutch transmissions essentially consist of two gearboxes, each with their own clutch. One of these gearboxes contains half of the gears (i.e. first, third, fifth, seventh) while the other contains the rest (i.e. second, fourth, sixth, reverse). By employing two gearboxes, the transmission is able to stagger the shifts between them. For example, right after your DCT switches into second gear, the opposite gearbox is already receiving directions from the vehicle’s transmission control unit to begin the change to third gear. While the second gear clutch is engaged, the gearbox containing third gear will complete its entire shift process and will be ready to engage as soon as the opposite clutch disengages.
Benefits of DCTs
This flip-flopping between the two gearboxes allows for near-instant gear changes and prevents the loss of power that occurs while the clutch is disengaged during the shift process. For this reason, DCTs generally perform much better than traditional automatics in shifting speed.
DCTs also often include a manual control mode, which allows for the driver to shift gears seamlessly with paddles behind the steering wheel. This system retains the rapid gear changes of the automatic DCT mode while still giving you the freedom to shift gears as you please, making for a more engaging driving experience than a regular automatic.
Downsides of DCTs
Though dual-clutch transmissions sport some very impressive advances over traditional transmissions, there are still some drawbacks that are important to consider if you’re thinking of purchasing a vehicle with one.
For one, the increased complexity of the dual-clutch and dual-gearbox setup also increases the likelihood of potential failures. This also means that DCTs have a higher cost of manufacturing, and by extension, higher repair costs.
For that reason, dual-clutch transmissions are often reserved for vehicles in a higher price range, particularly in performance or luxury vehicles where their superior shifting performance makes DCTs an attractive choice for consumers.
Some DCTs, particularly earlier ones, may experience jerkiness at low speed as a result of their design. This issue has been improved upon in later iterations, however, it still may be a slightly worrying feeling for those coming from automatics.
Transmission Service & Repair at Scott’s U-Save
No matter if your vehicle has a DCT, CVT, manual, or automatic transmission, our team has the expertise and equipment to provide you with the utmost quality of transmission diagnostics, service, and repair.
When it comes to one of the most complex systems in any vehicle, it’s vital to find a repair facility that understands your vehicle and its transmission inside and out. At Scott’s U-Save in Steger, New Lenox, Schererville, and Crown Point, our technicians are properly equipped to ensure your vehicle is receiving dependable care. Give us a call or schedule online to secure your appointment with the transmission experts at Scott’s U-Save!