Correctly check the automatic transmission when buying a car.

The gearbox is the first thing to check

The time has long passed when an automatic gearbox was a novelty that was installed only in foreign new products in the automotive industry; now even used domestic cars can boast of having an automatic transmission, in good or bad condition. Yes, “automation” will be more expensive than “mechanics”, but it is customary to pay for additional comfort.

“How to check the gearbox when purchasing?”, this question faces all of us and, if we do not want to carry out repairs a couple of months after purchasing a used car, we need to approach the analysis of the condition of the gearbox with all responsibility.

When checking a car when purchasing, you should at least lift it on a lift and visually inspect the box body. In this case, removing the protective covers is a mandatory step - all smudges, cracks or carbon deposits will be clearly visible.

The simple design of a manual transmission allows even a novice to check the serviceability of the system without much difficulty, but, in general, when assessing, you need to pay attention to the following:

When the gears are engaged, there should not be any extraneous sounds, crackling or squeaking sounds. Gears should be engaged without the use of special physical force, softly and smoothly.
The gearbox oil should not contain dirt or excess components, the fluid should be clean.
Transmissions should not “fly out” spontaneously.

If everything is simple with a “mechanics”, then an automatic transmission will take more time, and besides, it should be checked by a qualified specialist. It’s all about the design of the system, because “automation” is designed to make driving as easy as possible, therefore there are more mechanisms in it and they are more complex in structure.

How to check the serviceability of a circuit breaker when purchasing without control devices

Look at the markings on the machine body. It must be clearly factory-made and clearly distinguishable;
Check that the labeling is correct: the name of the manufacturer’s company must be written in Latin letters and correspond exactly (letter by letter) to the manufacturer’s logo;

For example, the marking of IEK machine guns was previously applied in Russian letters. This designation is obsolete. Since 2006, machines from this manufacturer have been marked with IEK. Hence the conclusion. We see when buying on an IEK machine, not IEK, which means the machine is from an old batch. Or instead of ABB we see ABBB, an obvious fake.

Check the machine for weight. Counterfeit machines are lighter than the original ones;
Cock the machine by hand and then turn it off. When disconnected there should be a characteristic click.

I would like to note that most often I read about counterfeiting of IEK circuit breakers. Therefore, I will give the distinctive features of a real IEC circuit breaker.

Related articles: About RCD in simple words

How to determine the reliability of an automatic transmission

The first sign of a bad automatic transmission is oil leaks or signs of damage on the body. These factors indicate that the automatic transmission has been tampered with, and therefore its performance may be impaired. If the current owner says that the box has been repaired, then it is better to refuse the purchase, this mechanism is very accurate and it is quite problematic to re-adjust it correctly.

Checking the condition of the oil is determined using a special dipstick, while the automatic transmission itself must be switched to P mode. From the marks on the dipstick you can determine the approximate mileage of the car; if the car has been driven often and a lot, then the oil will be at the operating level, the discrepancy of which makes it clear that a fault exists or has existed. The smell of the liquid can also tell a lot; there should be no foreign aromas or burning smell in it. Is your car not equipped with this dipstick? Then checking the oil can only be done using special computer equipment.

There is nothing better than determining the performance of elements in practice. Shifting gears by squeezing the brake pedal should occur smoothly and with an appropriate push. A working automatic transmission responds to lever movements instantly; any delay in the reaction, even for a second, indicates an inaccurate setting, which can subsequently lead to repair or replacement of the gearbox.

The direct test drive should take place after the engine has been warmed up. At a speed of 60 km/h you should already feel the ease of changing speed; a working mechanism should not make any extraneous sounds. If the car has an Overdrive function, then it also needs to be checked. During Overdrive, the automatic transmission should shift one speed higher, and when turned off, one lower.

Modern diagnostic methods make it possible to see absolutely all the errors recorded by the gearbox control unit. Spend some money on this procedure if you are buying a car in the expensive price range.

Checking the serviceability of the automatic transmission

Checking the serviceability of the automatic transmission - the automatic transmission in the car. Now the automatic transmission has become much more reliable, but it is still almost the most poorly protected part of the car. Nowadays, technology is becoming more and more complex. Often using technical innovations, you have no idea how they work. If one part wears out, it leads to incorrect operation, and then to breakdown of the entire device, everyone understands this. All this applies specifically to automatic transmissions.

It has many precision pistons inside. If one breaks, the entire transmission will not function properly.

Checking the serviceability of the automatic transmission

Automatic transmissions are very susceptible to overheating of the transmission oil. If you skid for twenty or thirty minutes in the snow, you can burn the box. The same thing can happen due to the wrong low-quality oil. Because of this, the box may break within half an hour.

Automatic transmission parts wear out over time. The oil pan contains a magnet that attracts metal powder. For example, in mechanics, the field of the first hundred thousand kilometers of flight time is not formed, but in the automatic machine there will be a thick layer. In addition, the automatic transmission will not last long after repair. This is due to the fact that there are many small parts that can be damaged by even a minor mistake, so you will have to start repairs all over again.

The automatic transmission, due to its vulnerability, needs the right approach and special attention when purchasing a used car. Otherwise, breakdowns will happen over and over again, and automatic transmission repair is a complex process and must be entrusted to professionals in order to save yourself from subsequent problems!

You always need to know how to test the box when buying a used car, and it is best to ask for help from professionals, they will help you with this matter.

Checking the serviceability of the automatic transmission begins with the fact that it is very important to find out the history of the car, this will save your time and money. Never buy a car after it has been used as a rental car or after it has been repaired after a serious accident. It is always better to ask the seller or the previous owner of the car whether it has been repaired. If they answer yes, you can safely refuse the purchase, otherwise you will end up with problems with repairs, having spent a large amount of money on frequent breakdowns.

It’s not even really a matter of repairing the gearbox; there are cases when the automatic transmission works many times better after it, but the fact is that many service stations (service stations) will not be able to repair the automatic transmission correctly, they do not have enough qualifications, because the automatic transmission is very complex mechanism. And you are unlikely to be able to determine the quality of the repair, unless of course you are a professional technician. An additional reason for your attention is the existence of a tow bar.

Checking the serviceability of the automatic transmission - Let's start checking

First you need to check the quality of the transmission oil. Turn on the engine, switch the transmission to Park mode. The car should have a transmission dipstick to check the oil. If there is no dipstick, and this is often the case in modern boxes, then you can only check it at a special repair shop. Now you need to take out this dipstick and then wipe it with a regular clean rag. You put it back in and pull it out again.

You need to wipe it with a white piece of paper and look at the trace of oil. If the oil is of high quality and the box is in good condition, it will be clear with no particles or flakes on it. Now about the color of the oil, if it is new, the color will be red. During prolonged use, the oil acquires a brownish tint, but in no case black.

You should know that the smell of the oil should not be burnt. Reinsert the dipstick. Checking your oil isn't difficult, but that's not all you have to do.

Prepare for a test drive. Be extremely careful and very careful, because the car does not belong to you yet. After adjusting the mirrors and seats, begin checking the brakes. A frequently encountered main symptom of a low-quality automatic transmission is the delay between the transition from Drive to Reverse and engagement of gear. Warm up the car in the Park position for some time, the speed should drop to 600-800 per minute.

Press the brake pedal and switch the transmission to the Drive position. The automatic will slowly turn on this mode, you will understand by the slight feeling, as if the automatic is pulling the car forward. Everything should happen easily and smoothly, without any kind of noise or tapping. Engage neutral gear N, then shift to Reverse. Again everything should happen quickly, as if the machine was pulling the car back. There should be no knocks or rustling noises.

If there are delays of one or more seconds during gear shifting, then the automatic transmission is faulty and requires repair.

Checking the serviceability of the automatic transmission while driving

Engage the Drive gear, release the brake and gradually pick up speed. When accelerating to 60 km/h, the automatic transmission should shift gears twice from 1 to 2, and then to 3. When changing gears, listen to noises in the machine, notice knocks and delays; in a working gearbox there should not be any of them. Otherwise, the gears in the automatic transmission will shift with a delay, and possibly with a shock.

Listen carefully to knocking noises when shifting from 1st to 2nd gear. While maintaining a speed of 50 km/h or higher, sharply press the pedal all the way, the automatic transmission will downshift and the speed will rise.

If the car is Japanese or American, then there should be an overdrive button to the left of the automatic lever. At a speed of 70 km/h, turn the ON position by pressing the overdrive button. The automatic transmission will shift to a higher gear. Switch to OFF mode and the transmission will drop down one gear again.

There should also be no slipping - this is a common problem in a faulty machine. Slippage occurs when, when you press the gas pedal, the revolutions increase, but the speed remains the same.

Remember that even one malfunction is enough not to buy this car.

Carry out the test drive slowly; checking the serviceability of the automatic transmission should be in a calm environment; defects may appear when the car is well warmed up or disappear when the warm-up ends.

A fully serviceable automatic transmission does not make unnecessary noise, does not knock, or jerks when switching. This should not be affected by speed or oil temperature. If you are told that knocking is always present in this model, it is better to refuse the purchase.

And if the overdrive button starts flashing while driving, consult an experienced professional.

Checking the serviceability of the automatic transmission can only be carried out by professionals; it is difficult for car enthusiasts to immediately understand whether the automatic gearbox is working properly.

Mileage is not an indicator

How to check the variator when purchasing? In the old days, people were guided by the value of the car kilometers traveled, but cunning craftsmen learned to tritely unscrew the meter readings back, so that no one really looks at the numbers for a long time. A working variator will allow the car to move away smoothly, without you having to use physical effort. If the car starts to twitch or the movement is accompanied by extraneous sounds, then the starter pack is faulty. The parts and fastenings of the variator should not contain chips or cracks, and special tools will help determine the presence of irregularities and distortions.

It should be remembered that when driving at speeds of up to 50 km/h, you may not notice the existing malfunction, but if the speed is impressive, the breakdown can lead to belt rupture and emergency braking. The variator, by its structure, is an element sensitive to driving style, so, depending on the activity of use by the previous owner, it should be taken into account when evaluating it.

You should also not forget about the liquid; the oil is checked by level and color. A certain amount of liquid can be dripped onto white gauze, but the oil should not be too dark or transparent. The presence of any by-products (small particles, veins, lumps) indicates long-term operation without changing the oil and wear of the variator.

What else to look for when buying a used car

But it is important not only to know how to check the automatic transmission for slipping. In addition, you should also determine how carefully the previous owner treated his vehicle. First of all, you should pay attention to the following questions:

whether the automatic transmission was repaired (why, when, what was the mileage, what parts were used, if there is a warranty);
how often the element was serviced and, in particular, the oil was changed, and when the fluid was last changed;
how the oil was changed (partial topping up, removing the pan, hardware replacement);
what fluid was used for replacement;
Has the filter been changed?

If possible, ask the seller to provide documentary evidence of his words. You should not blindly trust people; this can often lead to purchasing a low-quality vehicle.

Gearbox with “robots”

Certain difficulties during testing can be experienced with gearboxes, the operation of which is almost completely robotic. According to manufacturers, such mechanisms are characterized by increased sensitivity to commands, “robots” are easy to maintain and are not particularly demanding on driving conditions. Most drivers who contacted the service with problems with such gearboxes stated that when driving they heard extraneous sounds, grinding and tapping. Some unscrupulous repairmen may claim that these features are characteristic of a “robot” that can react in this way when moving under certain conditions. So how to check an automatic transmission with such a sophisticated mechanism?

Perhaps the wisest advice when buying a used car with a robotic gearbox is that in addition to the money for the car itself, you should have in your pocket the amount that may be required to repair the gearbox. Harsh, but these are the realities of the secondary car market.

In fact, any extraneous sound or vibration makes it clear that the gearbox is not in order, the problem is especially felt when shifting the first two speeds. In general, this “jamb” should be “treated” during warranty service, but in another case the problem is corrected by replacing the clutch discs. Jerks are also observed in case of overheating of the hydraulics, which can heat up beyond normal in traffic jams, where we often move in jerks and with frequent stops.

A little trick when choosing: if the car presented for inspection, equipped with DSG, was produced before 2013, then it’s not worth taking risks with the purchase. The thing is that it was in 2013 that this mechanism underwent significant changes, when the structure of the “robot” was modernized (the possible wear limit was increased to 150 thousand km) and the manufacturer’s official warranty was extended, covering the entire gearbox, and not just mechatronics and clutches.

Another piece of advice on how to check the gearbox yourself when purchasing is given by Yan Semakov (the First Video Car Market project).

Repairing an automatic transmission is quite an expensive proposition. This is why it is important to know how to check an automatic transmission when buying a used car.

Many drivers classify all gearboxes as automatic, in which gear changes occur without the direct participation of the driver. There are actually several types of automated transmissions. In the article we will look at how to check a torque converter type automatic transmission, as well as robotic gearboxes, which include DSG.

Checking the operation of the automatic transmission - Automobile magazine AutoMPV.Ru

Checking the operation of the automatic transmission

Automatic transmissions have become much more reliable, but still remain the most vulnerable component of a car.

What's the matter? Checking the operation of the automatic transmission

Modern technology is becoming more and more complicated, and we often use it with little idea of what’s inside. However, it is not difficult to guess that wear of one of tens or hundreds of parts is the path, first to fuzzy operation, and then to failure of the entire unit. Everything said fully applies to the automatic transmission. It has many precision pistons. As soon as one of them stalls, the transmission stops working correctly.

The automatic transmission is sensitive to overheating of the transmission oil - if you skid in deep snow for 20-30 minutes, it is very possible to burn the box (there is a known case with an Audi on the day of purchase - the repair cost $2000, and it only lasted for a year). By the way, the wrong type of oil and its poor quality will more than quickly (within half an hour) lead to breakdown. Many working parts of the machine wear out naturally. There is a magnet in the oil pan that attracts metal powder. Even after 150 thousand km it will be covered with a thick layer of metallic plaque. Test the same magnet on the manual transmission and it will be completely clean after a similar mileage. In addition, machines rarely work for a long time after repair - they have too many precise parts, and the slightest mistake or speck causes a breakdown again.

Therefore, the automatic machine, with all its reliability, requires especially careful attention when buying a used car. Otherwise, breakdowns cannot be avoided. And this leads to expensive (and complicated!) repairs.

What should you pay attention to when testing a machine when buying a used car? Naturally, we turn to a professional to test a used machine.

The main thing is to check, as far as possible, the history of the car. This saves money and time. If the car was used at a car rental place or was restored after a serious accident, pass by. Ask the seller or previous owner if the machine has been repaired. If yes, it's better to look for something else. The reason here is not the fact of the repair itself - some machines work better than before the repair. However, not all repair shops can repair automatic transmissions professionally. But the quality of the repair is impossible to determine. Another reason for attention is the presence of a towbar, since transporting a trailer causes additional wear on the automatic transmission.

Checking the operation of the automatic transmission - how to do it?

Let's start by checking the oil level in the machine and its condition. The engine is idling, the automatic transmission is in the “Park” position. Remove the transmission dipstick and wipe it with a clean cloth. Insert it back and pull the dipstick out again. Look closely at the oil. Wipe the dipstick with white paper. The mark on the paper should be clean and transparent without any metal particles or foreign flakes. New oil is usually red. It will turn a little brownish over time, but should not be black. Smell the oil. There should be no burnt smell. As you can see, there is nothing complicated in this check. So, if the oil of the machine is too dark, has metal particles or smells like burning, then it is better not to buy such a machine. True, many modern automatic machines do not come with an oil dipstick, and checking the oil level is only possible in a specialized technical center. In this case, only a test drive remains to control the machine. How to do it? Since the car is not yours yet, be careful and attentive. Adjust the seat, mirrors, check the brakes. The first sign of a defective automatic transmission is the delay between the moment you select gear D (Drive) or R (Reverse) and the gear is engaged. Warm up the car slightly with the transmission in P (park) until the rpm drops to 650-850 rpm. Foot on the brake pedal, switch to D (Drive). The automatic transmission should immediately select this mode - it feels like it begins to “drag” the car forward. The switching process should occur smoothly, without jolts or knocks. Switch to N (Neutral) - the box should turn off. Now turn on R (Reverse). Again, the automatic machine should turn on instantly, and you will feel that the car wants to crawl back. And in this case there should be no shocks or knocks. Now, while holding the brake, shift from D to R and back. Again the process should proceed without any jolts or knocks.

If there is a delay of more than 1 second when the gear is engaged, then the box is either worn out or already requires repair.

Checking the operation of the automatic transmission in motion

With the automatic transmission lever in position D (Drive), take your foot off the brake and gently accelerate. Up to a speed of 50-60 km/h, gears must be switched at least twice (from first to second, from second to third). All switching should be soft, without shocks or delays.

The moment of gear shifting is determined by a slight change in the engine noise level and a drop in its speed. If the automatic transmission is excessively worn, then the gear shifts with a push or delay and even a blow (especially when switching from first to second). At a speed of 40-50 km/h, press the gas all the way, a fully functional automatic transmission will shift to a lower gear and the speed will increase.

Next, check overdrive (if any). This is the button to the left of the automatic transmission lever in Japanese and American cars. At a speed of 60-70 km/h on a flat road, switch to ON mode by pressing the “Overdrive” button. The automatic transmission should shift into an up gear. Shift to OFF, the automatic will go down one gear.

Another problem with the automatic transmission is gear slipping. This is a situation when you press on the gas, the speed increases, but the speed does not increase.

Even one of these defects is enough to stop buying a car. Don't rush to finish your test drive. It may happen that defects in the automatic transmission appear only when it is warmed up (or, conversely, disappear after warming up). Time spent on meticulous checking will result in fewer problems in the future. A fully serviceable gearbox that is in working order does not jerk, does not knock, does not slip or make noise when shifting at any speed and at any oil temperature. If they begin to assure you that noises, knocks and similar phenomena are common and natural for this model, it is better to refuse such a purchase. If the check engine light (overdrive flashing) appears during a test drive, discuss the problem with a reliable technician you completely trust.

Watch Toyota's instructional video about automatic transmission:

Video: correct use of an automatic transmission:

Video: checking the automatic transmission when buying a car:

Tags: automatic transmission operation check.

AutoMpv.ru

Symptoms of malfunctions

A working automatic transmission should change gears without any noticeable shocks. The dynamics of the car must be commensurate with the increase in engine speed. When purchasing a used car with automatic transmission, pay attention to the following symptoms:

blows or so-called kicks when switching. They can occur both in an immobilized state, when you change the position of the gearbox selector before starting to move, and in motion during acceleration or deceleration;
noisy operation, the appearance of vibrations, which may indicate general fatigue of the joints of the planetary transmission of a torque converter type gearbox. In the case of a DSG, vibrations that appear when starting to move will indicate clutch wear;
discrepancy between engine speed and vehicle acceleration dynamics. In other words, when the engine revs intensively, but the car accelerates “sluggishly.” This will indicate slipping of the automatic transmission friction packs. If we are talking about DSG, then the double-disc clutch is wearing out. In both cases, the symptoms indicate a serious malfunction;
delayed gear shifting or lack of transition to some stages. If the automatic transmission does not engage some gears, we can talk about expensive repairs.

Automatic transmission check

Let's start with how to check a torque converter type gearbox (operation principle and automatic transmission design). There are only a few methods for checking automatic transmissions.

You should always start with a visual inspection. The presence of oily fogging will indicate wear of the seals. You should also be wary of the fact that the box has been washed if the rest of the engine compartment is covered with old dirt. This will indicate repair or replacement of the automatic transmission. If the owner does not deny the replacement, inquire about the reason for the replacement and the condition of the installed box. In almost all cases, owners buy contract transmissions or install reconditioned automatic transmissions (the so-called rebuild). It is difficult to talk about which repair method is better, as it all depends on the condition of the new box in each individual case.

The myth about maintenance-free automatic transmissions

There are two types of automatic transmission:

serviced;
unattended.

In the first case, there will be a dipstick in the box housing to control the automatic transmission fluid level. When buying a car, be sure to check the fluid level, as well as its condition. Under no circumstances should the liquid smell burnt. This will indicate slipping of the friction packs, which occurs due to insufficient fluid pressure in the system. Due to a lack of lubrication, overheating and wear of the friction and steel discs occurs, which leads to overheating not only of the packages themselves, but also of the valve body.

The condition of the automatic transmission oil is a very important indicator of the performance of the box. Despite the fact that many manufacturers say that their gearboxes are maintenance-free, the fluid and filter still need to be changed periodically. Spent ATF fluid clogs the valve body channels, as well as the filter element. This leads to solenoids sticking and oil starvation in some operating modes.

If, when checking the car, you find out that the mileage has exceeded 100 thousand, and the oil has never been changed - feel free to leave. With a greater degree of probability, we can say that the appearance of kicks and pushes (if such are not observed now) will occur on your property.

It is recommended to change the automatic transmission oil every 60-70 thousand km. This recommendation also applies to DSG 6 with a wet clutch. In the case of DSG 7, the box has a dry clutch and in many ways the oil works as in conventional mechanics. But it is also advisable to change the oil every 100 thousand km.

Testing the box

Another effective way to check the operation of an automatic transmission is to evaluate the performance of the unit while driving. When driving someone else's car, you should be extremely careful. To begin with, slightly adjust the seat and mirrors to suit you. Evaluate how well the brake system works.

You can understand that there are certain defects in the machine from the first seconds. If there is a delay between D and R transmissions, then there is a high probability of node failure.

Next, we warm up the car a little in parking mode, wait until the revolutions drop to 650 per minute. We turn on mode D - the switching should happen almost instantly, without jolts or knocks.

It is worth noting that if it takes more than 1 second to shift, then the level of wear on the automatic gearbox is quite high, so repair work will soon have to be done.

Test Drive

To fully check the gearbox before buying a car, trust your feelings. Before checking, be sure to warm up the engine and gearbox, since most problems manifest themselves when they are hot.

When diagnosing, follow the following algorithm of actions:

Depress the brake pedal and move the selector alternately to each of the possible positions. A working box will not make any knocks or jolts. You will feel only a slight force that begins to be transmitted to the wheels when you turn on, for example, the Drive and Reverse modes;
Switch to D (Drive) mode and release the brake pedal. The car should start moving even without pressing the gas. If this effect is not observed, the automatic transmission is worn out;
the beginning of movement should not be accompanied by vibrations or shock;
start accelerating smoothly, counting the gear changes. With constant acceleration mode, the automatic transmission should change gears in approximately the same speed range. With a calm control style, the torque converter automatic transmission, like the DSG, will constantly move to the highest level to save money. Already at approximately 85-100 km/h, depending on the gearbox model, the highest gear should engage;
press the gas pedal sharply. The automatic transmission must immediately reset 2-3 steps to ensure dynamics. All actions should not be accompanied by shocks;
during intensive acceleration, the speed should correspond to the dynamics. If you notice that at some point the speed began to increase rapidly, but the acceleration dynamics did not increase, the friction discs are slipping. The gearbox requires an oil change or repair;
After acceleration, release the gas. A gradual transition to a lower level should occur without kicking. A complete stop of a car with a torque converter automatic transmission may be accompanied by a barely noticeable nod, but no more. When buying a car with a working DSG, this effect should not happen.

We constantly hear the words of skeptics about the unreliability of robotic gearboxes, but only one fact proves the opposite; they are becoming more and more widespread in the automotive world. Of course, like any other gearbox, they have disadvantages and weak points, so that they do not cause unexpected problems, you need to know possible malfunctions and how to avoid them during operation.

How to check the automatic transmission for serviceability

› Hydromechanical gearbox ›

25.07.2019

The performance of an automatic gearbox (automatic transmission) is one of the most important factors that determine the prospects for purchasing a used car. The cause of malfunctions can be not only prolonged operation, but also unprofessional repairs, incorrect selection of oil and regular overloads.

Before checking the automatic transmission in dynamics, you need to ask the seller about the features of using the car and inspect the automatic transmission.

How to check the serviceability of the automatic transmission during the initial inspection

Changing speed on automatic transmission.

After a quick interview with the seller and an initial inspection of the car and automatic transmission, the need for a more in-depth inspection, technical inspection and test drive may disappear. Even before direct contact with the owner of the vehicle, you need to pay attention to 2 parameters:

Mileage. Even reliable automatic transmissions have a service life of no more than 300 thousand km. If the car is older than 12-15 years and has been in stable use, then the purchase should be treated with great caution. The determining factors will be the history of repairs and the qualifications of the craftsmen. In this case, it is recommended to check the technical condition of the automatic transmission at a specialized service station.
Origin of the car. Importing a car from abroad can be an advantage when purchasing. European car owners most often undergo service at official dealers and fill only with the oil recommended by the manufacturer. This extends the life of the automatic transmission.

What to pay attention to when talking with a seller

When talking with a car seller, you need to pay attention to the following aspects:

Frequency and location of repairs. If the automatic transmission has been repaired previously, then you need to clarify the nature of the work (replacement of clutches, major repairs, etc.). If the repair of the automatic transmission was not carried out at a specialized service station or at an official dealer, for which the relevant documents have been preserved, then you should refuse the purchase.
Regular oil changes. According to manufacturers' recommendations, transmission oil needs to be changed every 35-45 thousand km (maximum limit - 60 thousand km). If replacement has not been carried out for more than 80 thousand km, then problems with the automatic transmission will definitely arise. When changing the oil at a service station, a receipt and work order are issued, which the owner can present to a potential buyer. It is recommended to change the filter along with the oil.
Terms of Use. A large number of owners, renting out a car or working as a taxi are good reasons for not purchasing. Regular slipping in mud or snow also negatively affects the performance of the automatic transmission, so it is not worth purchasing a car after trips to fishing, hunting and other outdoor entertainment.
Using a towbar and towing devices. Towing a trailer is an additional load on the automatic transmission. If there is no obvious sign of overload (the presence of a towbar), then you need to check with the seller whether the car has had to tow another car, and carefully inspect the eyes for damage from the cable.

Visual inspection of the automatic transmission

For visual inspection, it is recommended to choose a dry and clear day. Before starting the test, the car must be warmed up for at least 3-5 minutes in summer and 12-15 minutes in winter. After warming up, you need to set the selector to neutral or park mode, open the hood and inspect the automatic transmission with the engine running.

It would be useful to inspect the car from below, on a pit or on a lift. This will allow you to see possible leaks of oil seals, gaskets and plugs.

Automatic transmission - bottom view.

There should be no oil or dirt leaks from either the top or bottom of the automatic transmission.

Inspection of transmission oil

The oil in the automatic transmission performs lubricating, cooling, transmission and control functions. The mechanical parts of the gearbox are lubricated or immersed in this technical fluid, so their wear and breakdown are indirectly determined by the level, consistency and color of the oil.

The check is performed in the following sequence:

Find a dipstick for oil diagnostics. In most cars with automatic transmission, it is red. Prepare a clean rag without visible lint and a white sheet of paper.
Turn on the engine. Warm it up with a short trip (10-15 km). The selector lever must be in position D (Drive).
Before starting the test, stand on a flat surface and, depending on the make of the car, set the lever to the N (neutral) or P (parking) position. Let the engine idle for 2-3 minutes. On some Honda car models, the oil level is checked only when the engine is turned off.
Pull out the dipstick and wipe it thoroughly with a rag. There should be no threads, lint or other foreign particles left on the instrument.
Place the dipstick in the tube, hold it for 5 seconds and pull it out.
Check the oil level on the dipstick. The normal fluid level for a warm transmission should be in the Hot zone, between the maximum and minimum marks. To analyze the color, transparency and other characteristics of the oil, drop a little of the collected liquid onto a sheet of paper.
Repeat dipping the dipstick and checking the oil 1-2 times to eliminate diagnostic errors.

In cars that are equipped with plugs and inspection windows instead of a dipstick, the check is performed in a pit or a lift. Cars of this type are produced under the brands Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, etc.

Basic malfunctions of the robot box

Basically, all breakdowns can be divided into two parts. The first part is mechanical damage that occurred during operation. And the second part is breakdowns caused by a malfunction of electronic equipment.

First, let's note the external signs of the malfunctions that have arisen:

the alarm light on the instrument panel came on;
during movement, sound noises are recorded (buzzing, howling);
there is no usual reaction when the engine speed increases (the speed has increased, but the speed has not);
leakage of liquid from the box;
the clutch is slipping;
During smooth movement, a jerk occurs when switching;
the box stops working and the car stops itself.

As for mechanical breakdowns, such breakdowns are caused by the gradual wear of parts and periodically require replacement.

A common breakdown is a worn gear selection fork (the selected gear does not engage);
Rolling bearings make noise and require replacement.

Failures of electronic equipment can also be classified into several types. Failure of electric gear shift levers, failure of sensors and breakdown of the “brains” of the robot box computer.

For electric drives, the main type of failure is contact burnout, since the electronic control unit is located inside the gearbox, and it is quite difficult to replace the contact yourself. In this case, only a master will help. It is worth monitoring the condition of the wiring and contact groups.

Box control unit

Burnout of contact groups. Failure of the sensors is due to the fact that the channels through which the coolant moves become clogged. The cooling mode is disrupted, the temperature regime becomes critical. Accordingly, the contacts overheat and burnout occurs. Alternatively, you should change the oil more often.

Another malfunction, the most common among breakdowns of the robot box, is breakdown of the switching drives. The teeth on the gears are chipped, the levers dangle freely. As a result, the car will move jerkily. Timely maintenance and diagnostics will help solve this problem.

Clutch problems

“Robots” use a “wet” or “dry” type clutch.

The clutch is called wet because of the presence of fluid in it; it is in an oil environment. This type of clutch is considered more reliable. During clutch operation, debris is generated, consisting of particles of the friction linings of the drive disc and metal wear particles. This debris can clog the filter, get into the gearbox control unit and mechatronics, which will lead to failure of the solenoids. The more powerful the car, the more the gearbox is exposed to this risk due to the greater load on the clutch. Therefore, the fluid in “robots” with a wet clutch must be treated very responsibly, and it must be changed along with an external filter at least every 50 thousand km.

This is the kind of dirt that comes out of the old clutch.

The dry type is more competitive, since due to the lack of fluid in it, the design of the clutch is simplified, but at the same time it has higher efficiency. A gearbox with a clutch of this type is also cheaper. The downside is that when driving in traffic jams or in rough driving conditions, which are accompanied by constant gear shifting, the “robot” overheats, which affects the mechatronics unit. This can lead to its failure as early as 40 thousand km, or even the entire clutch. At such checkpoints, you should adhere to a calm driving mode, and it will last much longer.

If you want to extend the life of the transmission, then every time you stop at a traffic light or in a traffic jam, it is recommended to move the gearbox selector lever to the neutral position. This is true for all robot checkpoints.

Conducting a “Stall speed test”

Stall speed test - carried out after the engine has warmed up to operating temperature. The test helps to identify transmission defects in drive (D) and reverse (R) modes. During the test, the number of maximum engine speeds with the wheels locked and the throttle fully open is determined. These values can be used to judge the condition of the automatic transmission.

Test results differ for different car brands. Specific values are indicated in the machine’s service book. If you want to carry out a test, keep in mind that it forces the machine to work at its limit. But the stall speed test is safe and will not harm the box under the following conditions:

the duration of the test should not exceed five seconds;
The machine is initially in good condition.

Therefore, before testing the automatic transmission, ask the seller for permission. Refusal can be regarded as uncertainty that the machine will pass the test. And if he gives his consent, adhere to the technique described below.

Test technique

Warm up the engine to 90–100 degrees Celsius.
Block the wheels completely, to do this, install wheel chocks, raise the handbrake and press the brake pedal.
Switch the automatic transmission lever to drive mode (D).
Press the gas pedal to the floor for five seconds.
Look at the tachometer and note the number of revolutions shown in the last second.
Move the automatic transmission lever to the neutral position (N) and release the brake pedal.
Check the result with the values indicated in the technical book of this car.

The same testing must be done in reverse gear (R). But first, take a break for a few minutes to allow the oil in the box to cool. To do this, let the engine idle.

Test results

If the test values are less than normal, this indicates a poor condition of the engine, which cannot develop sufficient power.
If the test result exceeds the permissible speed limits, this indicates worn out clutches of the front and reverse gears.

The robot box is an excellent solution for car owners

The “robot” box is quite a good solution for car owners. This type of transmission option is most suitable for modern vehicles for individual use. A robot gearbox is not as difficult to operate as an automatic gearbox. And much easier to repair and maintain.

The advantage of the “robot” box is that changing gears using the control electronic unit is much faster than the driver does it on his own. In addition, the ability to manually switch speeds provides a choice of movement in one of two modes that is most suitable at the moment. It can easily withstand long driving at high speed.

Let's try the car on the move

After familiarizing yourself with the performance of the unit on site, you should try the vehicle on the move. This is one of the best ways to check the serviceability of the automatic transmission yourself.

To begin with, we accelerate to 60 kilometers per hour. Before the speedometer needle reaches this indicator, gears must be changed at least twice. In this case, there should be no shocks or delays.

At the moment of switching, the noise level that the engine produces changes, and the speed also drops slightly. If the system wears out, there will be no smooth gear shifting (especially when switching from 1st to 2nd gear).

Having reached a speed of 40-50 kilometers per hour, squeeze the accelerator all the way. If everything functions correctly, the transmission will drop the gear and the speed will increase.

If there is an overdrive option (the button is located on the left side of the gearbox lever), we also evaluate the operation of this element. Having reached 60-70 km/h, turn on overdrive. The transmission should increase. When the option is turned off, the gear is immediately downshifted. In this case, it is advisable to carry out the test on a flat road, without many obstacles.

Also, when analyzing the operation of the gearbox, you should pay attention to gear slipping (when the speed of the car does not increase as the speed increases).

Already one problem is a good reason to refuse to buy such a car, or to have your vehicle repaired. To analyze the operation of an automatic transmission in as much detail as possible, try to spend as much time behind the wheel as possible. This way you can more accurately verify the presence or absence of various damages.

Manual transmission service

For uninterrupted operation of a robot transmission, it is necessary to carry out routine maintenance and computer diagnostics. By following this recommendation, serious breakdowns and malfunctions can be avoided. And the main rule is compliance with the driving regime.

The box must be serviced every 50 thousand kilometers; during the schedule, the contacts are cleaned or replaced, as well as the coolant in the box itself is replaced. Such procedures are carried out for any brand of car with a “robot” gearbox.

When it’s time to change the oil, it’s a good idea to adapt the clutch engagement point. This is a simple procedure that will allow you to correct the gearbox and worn clutch. In the future, this will significantly extend the life of the box and also make driving more comfortable. But if a characteristic squeak of the clutch appears while driving, it is not recommended to adapt it, since this either will not help at all or will delay the breakdown for a short time. If you don’t want to pay twice, there is only one way out - get ready to replace it.

To identify malfunctions of the robot gearbox, you must contact specialized transmission service centers. It is in such centers that full diagnostics, computer studies of the condition of the gearbox can be carried out and problems that have arisen can be eliminated. An attempt to independently repair a robotic gearbox can lead to much worse consequences, causing equipment malfunction and even complete failure.

The robot type transmission is suitable for different types of cars: both for ordinary family cars and for sports models. Many vehicle manufacturers have models equipped with robotic gearboxes. These are companies such as Opel, Ford, but the most widespread “robot” gearbox is in the Volkswagen company.