Automatic transmission waiting for a red light, hanging D gear and applying the brakes, do you know what the gearbox is going through?
When driving an automatic transmission model, many car owners habitually choose to put on the brakes in D gear when waiting for a red light. This seemingly convenient operation actually has a complex set of effects on the gearbox. This article will take a closer look at this phenomenon and help car owners drive their cars more wisely.
First, the basic structure and working principle of automatic transmission.
Automatic transmission is an advanced equipment that can automatically change the gear of the vehicle, which is composed of multiple core components such as hydraulic torque converter, planetary gear set, shift clutch and so on. In the process of driving, the power of the engine is transmitted to the planetary gear set through the torque converter, and then through the precise coordination of the shift clutch, the smooth transmission of power and the automatic change of gear position are realized.
Second, the state of the gearbox when the brake is stepped on in D gear.
When the vehicle is in D gear and applies the brakes while waiting for a red light, the engine is still running and the power is transmitted to the gearbox through the torque converter. At this time, the oil inside the torque converter begins to circulate when it is subjected to a reaction force, forming a certain resistance, but there is no actual torque output to the wheels. As a result, the gearbox is idling at this point and is subjected to a certain load.
3. The potential risk of hanging D gear and stepping on the brakes for a long time.
While the impact of applying the brakes in D gear for a short period of time is not significant, staying in this position for a long time can lead to a series of problems. First of all, the oil inside the torque converter will generate heat during the long-term circulating flow, resulting in an increase in oil temperature, which in turn affects the lubrication performance of the oil and the heat dissipation effect of the gearbox. Secondly, frequent starts and stops can place an additional burden on the oil pump of the transmission, accelerating its wear and age. Finally, prolonged wearing the brakes in D gear can also increase wear and tear on the gears and clutches inside the gearbox, shortening its service life.
Fourth, how to use the automatic transmission correctly.
In order to reduce the burden on the transmission and extend its lifespan, car owners should consider switching gears to N or P when waiting for a red light or stopping for a short time. The n-gear is a neutral gear that cuts off the power transfer between the engine and the gearbox, thereby reducing the load on the gearbox. The P gear is the parking gear, which can ensure that the vehicle is safer when it is stationary.
In addition, car owners should also regularly check the quality and quantity of transmission fluid to ensure that it is in good condition. Avoiding prolonged high-load operation and frequent hard acceleration also helps protect the transmission while driving.
Although the brakes in D gear while waiting for a red light in a short period of time have little impact on the transmission, for the long-term use of the vehicle and the health of the transmission, car owners should pay more attention to this detail. Reducing the load on the gearbox by switching to N or P gear, along with regular maintenance and inspections, ensures that your car is always in top shape on the road. Remember, proper driving habits and maintenance are key to extending the life of your vehicle.