What is more expensive is an automatic machine or a variator. Which is better: automatic or variator

An automatic transmission can be represented by a classic automatic and a variator. When purchasing a car, a car enthusiast thinks about which gearbox to give preference to; which is better: a variator or an automatic transmission. When choosing between a variator and an automatic machine, you need to know how they differ, take into account their pros and cons, and also understand which of the devices is more reliable.

CVT transmission

Like any other gearbox, a variator is a device that converts torque from the engine to the wheels. The transmission of torque is carried out steplessly within a certain control range. Quite often, the variator is designated by the abbreviation "CVT" (Continuously Variable Transmission), which translated from English means "transmission with continuously changing torque."

CVT types

Depending on the device, the following main types of variators are distinguished:

• chain;
• V-belt;
• toroidal.

The most widespread is the V-belt.

The V-belt CVT consists of a V-belt located between two sliding pulleys. In the process of movement of the car, the pulleys are compressed, then unclenched, providing a change in the gear ratio. The main purpose of the CVT is to provide a smooth, stepless change in torque. This is true for cars, scooters, snowmobiles and other equipment.

In a CVT, power is transmitted by the beveled ends of the chain link pivots, and traction is transmitted by the chain.
In toroidal variators, instead of pulleys, tapered disks are used, instead of a belt, rollers. They are capable of transmitting more torque. To manufacture parts for this type of CVT, high-strength steel is required, which ultimately affects its cost.

Advantages and disadvantages of CVT

The main advantage of a CVT transmission is the ability to provide a continuous change in torque. This allows for better fuel consumption and vehicle dynamics.

The disadvantages of the variator include:

1. The inability to install it in cars with a powerful engine.
2. Maximum loads, towing or systematic driving at high revs will lead to rapid wear of the variator belt and, accordingly, to CVT breakdown.

Automatic transmission

The automatic transmission is controlled by a shift selector located on the central tunnel or on the steering column (in American cars). Moving the selector to a certain position allows you to select the desired driving mode. Additionally, it is possible to choose special ones: winter, sports, economical. The difference in fuel consumption between normal, sport and economy modes is clear.

Consists of planetary gearbox, steering system and torque converter. The machine can be used in cars, trucks and buses.

Consists of pump and turbine wheels with a reactor located between them. The pump wheel is connected to the engine crankshaft, the turbine wheel is connected to the gearbox shaft. The reactor, depending on the operating mode, rotates freely or is blocked with.
The transmission to the gearbox occurs by a fluid (oil) flow ejected by the impeller blades onto the turbine blades. The gaps between the impeller and the turbine are minimal, and their blades have a specific shape that forms a continuous circle of oil circulation. Thus, there is no rigid connection between the engine and the transmission, which contributes to the smooth transmission of tractive effort.

It converts the rotational speed and the transmitted torque in a limited range, therefore, a multistage planetary gearbox is attached to it. It also provides reverse movement.

Gear shifting takes place under oil pressure using. The pressure between the clutches, in accordance with the gearbox operation algorithm, is distributed using a system of solenoid valves (solenoids) under the control of the control unit.

The disadvantages of an automatic transmission are its high cost, as well as increased fuel consumption.

Comparative characteristics of two types of gearboxes

Which device is better: a variator or an automatic machine? Let's make a comparative characteristic that allows you to identify the differences and determine which of the boxes is better and more reliable.

The difference between a variator and an automatic machine from an economic point of view

Which gearbox is better in terms of operating cost: CVT or automatic? Let's compare some indicators.

1. Transmission fluid. CVT oil changes are more frequent and more expensive.
2. Fuel consumption. Fuel in a car equipped with a variator is more economical.
3. Repair. Maintenance and repair of the variator is much more expensive than operating the machine. CVT is a rather complex and sensitive mechanism.

Although it is more expensive to maintain a CVT, the transmission itself is cheaper than an automatic transmission. And with proper use of the box, it can last a long time and without repair.

Which device is better in terms of reliability

In order to determine the degree of reliability of devices, we set a number of difficult conditions:

• the possibility of towing;
• off-road;
• high speeds;
• sports riding.

The variator cannot cope with the harsh conditions. His belt will not withstand the stress. A machine gun will do better here. CVT release - smooth movement without harsh acceleration.

How to determine which device is installed in the car

1. It is necessary to study the technical documentation of the machine. The designation of the variator is CVT, the automatic machine is AT.
2. Take a test drive. If a variator is installed, then you will not feel the gear changes. The machine can be “listened to” and monitored by the tachometer. CVT works in one key, measured. However, it is possible that there is a special mode that simulates gear changes and allows the driver to feel them shifting.

Summarize

Today, automatic transmissions are much more common than CVTs. But the latter has great potential. Automatic transmissions are more reliable to use in vehicles with high powers and trailers capable of towing. From the point of view of economy, the variator looks preferable.

CVT or automatic? The choice is yours. And it will depend on the characteristics of the devices that are your priority. Do you like smooth city driving in a small passenger car? Your choice is CVT. If you prefer sports driving or often use a trailer, then an automatic machine is better for you.

In the modern car market, you can find several options for cars at once using automatic gearboxes. First of all, these include classic hydromechanical automatic machines and variators, although there is also a variant with robotic gear shifting. Formally, these options are similar - when changing gears, mechanical energy is not used, that is, the physical effort of the driver. However, they are structurally significantly different, which causes different advantages and disadvantages of different options. Therefore, we will try to find out how classic machines differ from variators and which design is better.

Automatic transmission

From a formal point of view, any gearbox in which gear shifting occurs without the participation of the driver can be classified as automatic gearboxes. However, historically, this name was assigned to a hydromechanical gearbox, which appeared in the first half of the 20th century. The first appeared boxes with 4 gears, modern automatic transmissions can have 6, 8 and even 9 gears in the most advanced variations.

Short review

A classic automatic transmission consists of several blocks that provide gear shifting without human intervention.

1. Planetary gearbox (planetary gearbox) is the main unit of the automatic transmission, which carries out gear shifting and is responsible for the vehicle speed. The gearbox consists of a sun gear, a planetary carrier, satellites and a ring gear.
2. The hydraulic control system is responsible for the operation of the planetary gearbox and controls it.
3. Torque converter (fluid coupling) - transfers torque from the engine to the planetary gearbox. For transmission, the hydraulic coupling uses a working fluid - transmission oil. At the same time, the fluid coupling also performs the functions of a clutch. The torque converter is located on the flywheel of the engine.

Pros and cons

A classic automatic transmission is a unit whose design has been tested by time. The pros and cons of the gearbox of the hydromechanical design of the automatic transmission were clearly manifested even on the boxes of the first generations. Modern automakers are improving the design of the automatic transmission, so its disadvantages are smoothed out on the most expensive models.

The advantages of automatic transmission include the following qualities.

1. Reliable and time-tested design. Modern torque converters have a service life of hundreds of thousands of kilometers.
2. Ease of use and ease of repair. The design of the automatic transmission is quite simple and well studied by car service workers.
3. The ability to "digest" the enormous torque.
4. Ability to “survive” short-term towing.
5. The presence of a manual gearshift mechanism.
6. Sparing attitude to the engine. The automatic transmission shifts gears before the engine speed reaches high numbers. Thanks to this, the resource of the power unit is conserved.
7. Low demands on transmission oil. Classic 4-speed automatic machines are practically "omnivorous" - it is not at all necessary to purchase an original oil, so its replacement with an analogue is quite acceptable. At the same time, new generation automatic transmissions with 8 or 9 gears are quite demanding on the quality of transmission oil.

The disadvantages of the automatic transmission are also pronounced. These include the following disadvantages.

1. Relatively low efficiency. Due to losses in the torque converter, the automatic transmission uses less net engine power. In this, the automatic transmission is inferior to both the manual transmission and the variator.
2. Increased fuel consumption. This drawback is directly related to the previous one. To deliver comparable power, a car with an automatic transmission uses a larger volume of fuel.
3. Lack of dynamism. Acceleration of a car with automatic transmission is inferior to cars with a mechanics and a variator.
4. Jerks when changing gears. During the ride, noticeable jerks are felt when the machine shifts gears. This disadvantage is especially typical for a classic 4-speed automatic transmission; on a new generation automatic transmission with a large number of gears, jerks are significantly softened.

Variable speed drive

A variator (CVT) is a variant of a continuously variable transmission, during which there is no gear change. The simplest variator models were used in mills, then on various machines. Passenger cars began to be equipped with variators in the second half of the 20th century, and the heyday of continuously variable transmissions began in the 21st century.

Short review

There are many varieties of variators, the following varieties are most often found in the passenger car industry:

• V-belt transmission;
• wedge-chain transmission

V-belt variator is the most common type of variator at the moment. The torque from the engine is transmitted to them using a trapezoidal metal belt. The belt is put on two pulleys - one leading, transmitting forces from the power unit, and one driven, transmitting force to the wheels. Changing the diameters of the pulleys changes the gear ratios, roughly corresponding to the ranges of conventional gears in the box. The principle of operation of the V-chain transmission is similar, but in them the belt is changed to a chain.

Pros and cons

The variator has many advantages over a manual transmission and even a hydromechanical automatic. However, some design flaws prevent it from completely supplanting other transmission options.

The positive qualities of the variator include the following advantages.

1. High transmission efficiency. The CVT has no power consumption to shift gears, so more power from the engine is used.
2. Lower fuel consumption - this plus follows from the previous one. The CVT uses less gas to achieve the desired speed.
3. Greater environmental friendliness - lower fuel consumption determines a smaller amount of harmful emissions in the car's exhaust.
4. Smooth acceleration with better acceleration performance. The variator allows you to accelerate the car faster, as there is no time wasted for changing gears. So, in terms of dynamic characteristics, the variator outperforms the manual transmission, and even more so the automatic transmission.
5. Lack of jerks. Since the variator has no gears, the movement is smooth. Acceleration in a car with a CVT is similar to driving an electric car or, for example, a trolleybus. This ensures maximum ride comfort in a car with a variator.
6. An additional, but not insignificant plus is the absence of rollback when starting off on an uneven surface. A car with a CVT will not stall when starting off on a hill and will not roll back, which is especially important for novice drivers.

However, the variator also has many disadvantages, because of which it loses to other types of transmissions.

1. The variator cannot be installed on high-power engines - a V-belt or V-chain transmission is not capable of transmitting torque from engines with a power of more than 220 hp. With.
2. Despite its good dynamic characteristics, the variator is not suitable for a sporty type of driving. He "does not like" high engine speeds, sudden accelerations, slippage, etc.
3. Insufficient reliability of the design - the presence of a large number of electronics leads to a complication of the system. Therefore, CVT breakdown is a fairly common occurrence. In addition, repairing the variator is expensive, and besides, there are not so many real specialists in this type of transmission.
4. Less resource of the box - it is recommended to change the variator belt after a run of 150 thousand km, regardless of its physical wear.
5. Demanding service. The variator can only be filled with original transmission oil, which is more expensive than analogs.
6. The variator does not allow towing a trailer or other vehicle.

Similarities

The main similarity between automatic gearboxes and variators is the absence of mechanical action to change gears when the car is moving. The variator, in principle, has no gears, and the gear ratios on it change in a constant automatic mode. The torque converter is responsible for shifting gears and squeezing the clutch in the automatic transmission, so no physical effort is required from the driver.

Differences

There are actually more differences between the two types of transmissions than meets the eye.

1. The hydromechanical automatic machine is universal - it can be installed on cars of any size and direction: from city cars to sports cars. The CVT is not suitable for high-performance sedans, SUVs or sports cars. His element is family and city cars, as well as crossovers.
2. The variator provides greater softness and ride comfort. The automatic machine is also more comfortable when driving than cars with a manual transmission, but it is inferior to the variator due to pronounced jerks.
3. The design of the machine has greater reliability and longer service life. The variator breaks down more often, requires special maintenance and breaks down earlier.
4. The variator is more economical, as it consumes less fuel than an automatic transmission.

Which is better: automatic or variator

It is impossible to make a definite conclusion about which type of transmission is better. Automatic transmission and variator differ significantly and are generally designed for different types of vehicles. The variator is suitable for quiet driving, the automatic is more versatile. It is also quite comfortable, but allows you to drive in sport modes, tow trailers, move on light off-road, etc.

Both types of transmissions have their fans, and their arguments sound pretty compelling. We can say that for the current level of technology, the variator and automatic transmission are practically equal in their advantages. However, this applies only to automatic transmissions with at least 6 gears - the good old 4-speed automatic machines are already significantly inferior to modern CVTs.

In general, a balance has now been established on the market - CVTs have occupied their niche in the form of family cars and crossovers. Although classic automatic transmissions have lost a separate segment of the market to CVTs, they firmly hold their niche, especially in the share of expensive and sports cars. The situation can be changed by further improvement of variators - increasing the reliability, increasing the resource and endowing the ability to "digest" a large torque will make them the undisputed leader among various types of transmissions.

Good afternoon, today we will tell you about which automobile the gearbox is better - automatic or variator what is reliability and resource nodes, as well as from which main components consist of mechanisms. In addition, we will tell you about what advantages and disadvantages possess gearbox automatic and variator type, which service interval mechanisms to be followed and what transmission parts subject to the greatest wear and tear during operation... In conclusion, let's talk about what kind of car Transmission most preferable for urban and out-of-town conditions, and also, what is the difference between transmissions apart.

WHAT OIL TO FILL IN THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION

Today, if we start from statistics sales vehicles equipped automatic transmissions, the varieties of which are considered classic automatic machines , variators and robots , then gearbox with action type machine almost in 2 times more often bought than competing mechanisms. Based on precise research figures buying activity over the past 5 years, then on the market of the countries of the Customs Union ( Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan) was sold to buyers of cars with manual transmission - 45 percent , With automatic machines - 30 percent , With variators (CVT ) - 15 percent and with robotic transmission - 10 percent ... Concerning boxes of robots , then literally in recent years, sales of cars with such a transmission doubled, and such mechanisms can increasingly be found on domestic Lada Vesta , Ixrei , Priora and Grant .

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION: FEATURES, MALFUNCTIONS, RESOURCE, PROS AND CONS

How and when did the first machine gun appear? It is believed that the first automatic transmission appeared in shipbuilding in the early 20th century in Germany. Its inventor was a German scientist, Karl Fettinger , it was he who first proposed the use of hydrodynamic transmission, which made it possible to combine the work engine and transmissions, which led to the effective untwisting of the ship's propeller. Thanks to this invention, such a gearbox element as fluid coupling, which today is considered one of the key elements of modern machine gun.

As for cars, the first vehicles that began to be equipped with such transmission there were American cars " Oldsmobile"and this event happened in 1939 year ... The first gearbox were called " Hydromatic "and to this day their design hardly changed. For reference, note that any modern machine has in its equipment two key nodes - it reducer and torque converter .

An element of an automatic transmission such as torque converter replaces clutch... The task of this node is to gear shift what happened in the box without jerks, that is smoothly. Redkutor in turn includes pairs of gears who are in constant engagement together. Thanks to such " dense " constructions, modern machine represents a compact mechanism , which is equipped with a certain amount steps... For reference, we note that until recently, most cars were rear wheel drive and, as a rule, were equipped with only 2-3 gears v automaton, which was quite enough for optimal movement. However, at the present stage of the automotive industry, most cars, on the contrary, have front-wheel drive which contributed to increase in speed , so the number gear became large, ranging from 4-x and ending 8 steps .

Concerning technical component, then machine has already been tested over the years and today it has been brought almost to its perfection. Technically - automatic transmission is enough solid system, which has established itself mainly only with positive side. How does the vending machine work? As we know, the movement of any car is based on torque, which is transmitted from the power plant. In the machine torque transmitted thanks to torque converter, in which no rigid engagement and the mechanism functions from pressure transmission fluid. Thus, it turns out that once in the system no hard engagement, therefore break here almost nothing... However, in structure vending machine are available shafts With planetary gear and disks With clutches made from become that are in constant motion.

Items such as clutches by their functions similar to clutch v mechanical transmission ... Thanks to them, during compression or unclenching, connect the necessary couplings, which at one time or another correspond to certain transmissions... In addition to the above details, machine includes a special High pressure pump, as well as valve body... In reality, the elements in automatic transmission much more and we are talking only about its main components who are directly involved functioning systems.

What parts in the vending machine are most susceptible to breakdowns? Majority breakdowns v automaton and variator occur due to misuse and untimely service node. For automatic transmissions the most important thing is adherence to service regulations ... In the event that on machine simply " Score " and do not change ATF oil after a long run, for example more than 100 thousand kilometers , then this often leads to the fact that the valve body is clogged, radiator and filters... Ultimately, all this leads to the fact that oil pump stops holding optimal working pressure in the system, due to which clutches on steel disks begin scroll which leads to slipping or, as auto mechanics say, the machine starts " kick " or" skid ". In the neglected state , transmission gears can simply not turn on or twitch while driving. In the end, everyone has a result automata one - they go to emergency mode .

This is why most specialists strongly recommend before buying a used car in the first place check on the wear machine and its components. There is even such the rule which helps determine the degree of wear... It concerns smell transmission fluid. In case if automatic machine oil smells I burn, then this indicates that the clutches are burnt and are in strong worn out condition... Therefore, if there is foreign smell in a box, better refuse from purchases such a car. Moreover, if, transmission strongly launched, then malfunctions it can contain a large number, ranging from planetary gears and ending torque converter friction linings... Note for reference that each machine has its nuances, That's why breakdowns and wear rate the details of this or that transmission models may vary.

What is the resource of the machine? In the event that the transmission operated and served in accordance with manufacturer's regulations, then resource node can be not less than service life the power plant of the car. How recommend auto mechanics, if you change the transmission fluid every 40-50 thousand kilometers of run , then machine able to pass 350-400 thousand kilometers , and this applies mainly to 4-stage models ... Note for reference that by opinion specialists, namely 4-speed gearboxes are considered the most reliable, especially Japanese manufacturers .

In order to extend the service life of the machine, you must adhere to certain rules : Firstly , change the working fluid no later than 1 time in 60 thousand kilometers of run , and better even more often ( for reference: there are no unattended vending machines, do not trust dealers); Secondly , together with the transmission fluid, you need to change the oil filter; third , it is advisable to flush the transmission radiator with each oil and filter change; fourthly , clean the pallet and transmission magnets from wear debris in the form of metal shavings. Thanks to these simple the rules, machine resource can increase average by 10-15 percent from those values ​​indicated by the manufacturer.

Advantages of the machine :

- Simple and intuitive vehicle control, that is, there is no need to drag the gearbox selector every time when changing gears, since everything happens in automatic mode;

High reliability of the design with proper maintenance and operation, and much more than that of the variator;

Maintainability at a high level, since the system has long been studied by most auto mechanics;

The requirements for the transmission fluid are lower than those of the variator and are much cheaper;

Less electrical in the system on average by 25-30 percent than the variator. Basically everything works mechanically;

Longer service intervals than CVT. On average, the oil change in the unit takes place 1 time in 60-80 thousand kilometers of run.

Disadvantages of the machine :

- Acceleration dynamics is worse than that of CVT and manual transmissions;

The lowest efficiency among competing types of transmissions, due to the fact that the machine does not have a rigid engagement with the power plant and the process of operation is carried out using a torque converter under the pressure of a technical fluid. By the way, because of this, such a transmission has gears in the system;

The presence of jolts at the time of gear shifting, due to the presence of gears;

The volume of transmission fluid required for replacement in the machine can be from 8 to 15 liters, at the variator from 5 to 8 liters, and the mechanics, in total from 2 to 4 liters oils;

Highest fuel consumption compared to CVT, robot and mechanics. all this is due to the fact that the system has the lowest efficiency.

In this way, automatic gearbox or hydratransformer type is enough reliable and proven time knot. but positive sides the machine is blocked by such limitations, how low efficiency , increased fuel consumption , weak dynamics and tremors at the moment of gear shifting ( for reference: on 6-speed automatic machines, tremors are almost imperceptible). However, if properly serve this gearbox and fill only quality liquids , then you don't have to worry about resource node.

VARIABLE TRANSMISSION: FEATURES, MALFUNCTIONS, RESOURCE, PROS AND CONS

Official name CVT transmission - CVT , which when decrypted means Сontinuosly Variable Transmission ... According to some car enthusiasts, variable speed drive was born later than other types of transmissions. However, this is fundamentally wrong. Since by itself the principle of the variator was described back in the 15th century by a famous inventor at that time - Leonardo Da Vinci ... Operating principle variator based on two cones, which are directed in different directions relative to each other, and between them stretched belt... Exactly this construction and invented Da vinci By the way, such a system was adopted from windmills. But as we understand variable speed drive was not created in the 15th century, as there were simply no opportunities for this.

As such given transmission type gradually began to pass from theory to practice only in the middle of the 19th century, when it began to be used on industrial machines. And only in 1957 the Dutch designer Hubert Van Doorne , decided to move variator design from machine tools to the automotive industry. Van doorne considered the first person on the planet who created continuously variable transmission which he named Variomatic ... Note for reference that this variable speed drive from 1959 began to be installed on small trucks of the company DAF ... As a rule, cars were equipped with small volumes power plants: 0.6 - 1.2 liters ... Due to the high efficiency transmission system Van Doorne received many positive feedback at that time, and automakers have adopted stepless variator for their models.

Concerning technical component, then variable speed drive just like machine belongs to one of the varieties automatic transmission... The main thing difference between the variator and the machine - lack of speeds or gear... True in some modern variators(example: CVT X-Tronic JF015E from Jatco ) have the so-called virtual transmissions so that the driver can produce toggle translation speeds selector boxes in different positions.

Structure variator painfully simple and based on 2 pulleys (leading and slave ), which are located opposite each other and connect belt drive usually with metal trapezoidal belt... Concerning cones such a gearbox, then they not whole, as it was originally, but in the form sliding halves... Principle of operation variator based on drive pulley, which is located in spread apart condition. Drive belt in turn, it moves along a small diameter, resting on its edges on pulley surface... Note for reference that if pulley is in shifted position, then belt will rotate along large diameter, as a result of which the maximum possible ratio which matches first gear.

Also note that when the sheave movement, then a smooth decrease gear ratio, which provides the so-called gear shift... Interesting nuance variator is the fact that gear ratios almost completely correspond to the indicators of the classic machine gun, although again note that steps in the system as such absent... Thanks to this specific operating principle, variable speed drive in respect of efficiency between the power plant and the wheels, has best efficiency... All this is due to the fact that torque transmission from motor on the transmission and then on wheels, transmitted mechanical efforts, that is in a tough way rather than using pressure technical fluid.

What parts in the variator are most susceptible to damage? Unlike machine gun , variable speed drive very picky about exploitation and maintenance... Transmission fluid without fail in variator is changing every 60 thousand kilometers , if not more often. Otherwise, if do not change according to the oil regulations, very serious Problems with system components. As a rule, with a disregard for variator,first thing the valve body is clogged With oil pump which later cannot pump optimal oil pressure in the system. Because of this shafts can't properly pinch and unclench the drive belt which leads to it slipping... When it starts slip belt, then this leads to its accelerated wear and tear, due to which later it can occur break element. When broken belt, variable speed drive instantly collapses and this is where his life ends, and rebuilding usually he is already is not subject to... In addition, often in variators going on erasure of the mirror surface of the shafts, what also influences on the belt resource... Well, we must not forget about a bunch of unreliable electronics which controlled modern variable speed drive.

What is the CVT resource? Talking about CVT service life you should always remember about timely replacement of the transmission fluid, since this action will directly depend on vitality transmissions. Often in case of violation by the car owner CVT service regulations, his life may come to an end already on 90-100 thousand kilometers of run ... However, apart from oils, attention is also worth paying drive belt which usually changes to 130-150 thousand kilometers ... If overlook drive belt replacement then it might end it cliff, and this is already replacement Total variator... According to auto mechanics, variable speed drive - it transmission, which will always keep its owner in good shape. Maximum resource modern variators on average is about 250-280 thousand kilometers of run .

CVT advantages :

- Good dynamics of acceleration, in comparison with the classic machine;

Reduced fuel consumption, in comparison with an automatic torque converter type ( for reference: consumption is less by 9-14 percent);

Lack of gears, therefore, there are no jerks when changing gears, which gives smoothness and dynamism when moving;

High efficiency, in comparison with the automatic machine, the indicator of the variator is higher on average by 6-9 percent;

Easy driving, and it also takes less time to warm up the unit to operating temperature.

CVT disadvantages :

- The mechanism is considered difficult to repair, since not many auto mechanics are well acquainted with the design of some models, therefore, in case of breakdowns or maintenance, you will have to contact official dealers, which will cost a penny to the car owner;

The need for frequent replacement of the transmission fluid and the flexible drive belt of the mechanism, which is not a cheap procedure;

There is a lot of electronics in the system and in case of its failure, you will have to contact specialized service stations or dealers, which is again expensive;

Transmission fluid is used only with a special one, with high tolerances, which a priori simply cannot be cheap and must be changed as often as possible.

Dec which is better - an automatic machine or a variator? Based technical features in respect of operating principle, speakers, smooth running and fuel consumption, then variable speed drive unequivocally it is bettermachine gun ... But as soon as it comes to service and renovation, then variable speed drive is solid headache for the car owner. Machine considered more studied in relation to maintainability, it can be faster and cheaper to fix, restore, as well as finalize... However, in one, both transmissions are similar if the car is bought supported by, then diagnostics you need to do both mechanisms.

Video review: "Automatic or variator - which is better. Reliability, malfunctions, resource, pros and cons"

In conclusion, we note that it does not matter which transmission installed in purchased vehicle, if purchased new at dealer... Often in the process exploitation a new car, when certain malfunctions, everything closes guarantee manufacturer. However, the opposite is true if the car bought from hands, that is, with mileage, For example after the warranty period which is often 100 thousand kilometers... In this case, more preferable looks machine since its easier and cheaper to fix, in case of appearance breakdowns... Moreover, resource classic automata usually on 25-30 percent more than variators.

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Drivers who have decided that they do not want to be distracted by the gearshift lever while the car is moving are faced with a dilemma of which type of gearbox to choose. Despite the similarities in driving a car with a hydromechanical automatic transmission and a variator, the operation of each vehicle has its own characteristics. It is impossible to determine which type of gearbox is better, otherwise the competition would completely oust the losing unit from the market. At the same time, it is possible to choose the best transmission option for the needs of a particular driver, since each of the mechanisms has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Features of the hydromechanical automatic transmission device

With the classic design of an automatic transmission, its device includes:

• torque converter;
• planetary gear.

The automatic transmission has a fixed number of gears, determined by the pairs of gears located inside. During the acceleration and deceleration of the car, the gear ratio changes with a small kick-down. This leads to small pauses and jolts, especially noticeable on older gearboxes.

The torque from the engine to the box is supplied through the transmission oil between the impeller and the turbine, so there is no rigid connection between the power plant and the automatic transmission in the design. This technical solution ensures a smooth start of movement on the car, but the transmission efficiency decreases, which causes increased fuel consumption.

Gear shifting occurs under the influence of increasing oil pressure. The design contains friction clutches. ensuring work at the required speed. The whole process is controlled by an electronic control unit that receives information from sensors.

Subtleties of the variator device

The variator design allows for continuous transmission of engine torque through the transmission. The most popular are the following types of CVT:

• V-belt, which has become a leader against the background of other systems;
• toroidal;
• chain.

The V-belt variator uses two sliding pulleys and a belt made using a special multi-layer technology. During acceleration and deceleration, the pulleys are compressed or unclenched, steplessly changing the gear ratio.

In the less common chain technology, torque is transmitted by the chamfered ends of the chain link pins. The pulling force is provided by the chain itself. The design is not capable of transmitting much force, and also creates a lot of noise.

The toroidal variator has no pulleys and no V-belt. It uses tapered discs and rollers. Of all types of variators, this mechanism is capable of transmitting the greatest force, provided that high-strength steel is used. The expensive materials used in the manufacture of toroidal CVTs affect the price of the finished product.

Breakdown of the machine

Most breakdowns, both on a classic automatic transmission and on a variator, occur due to untimely maintenance or improper operation of the car. At the same time, characteristic weaknesses are distinguished in the machine:

• valve body contamination as a result of poor quality transmission fluid;
• a decrease in oil pressure due to a malfunction of the oil pump;
• scrolling of clutches on disks;
• jerks of the car when changing the gear ratio;
• wear of planetary gears;
• disturbances in the operation of sensors;
• wear of friction linings.

There are also breakdowns. specific to specific car models. They usually arise in connection with engineering miscalculations in the design of a machine. This problem is most acute for domestic iron horses.

The most common CVT malfunctions

The variator is more demanding on the oil, which should be changed just in time and only for the one recommended by the automaker. Choosing a lubricant on your own can quickly damage the unit. The most common breakdowns are:

• oil pump wear;
• slipping belt;
• excessive wear on surfaces;
• belt breakage, which causes large-scale damage to the assembly;
• seizure of shafts.

Choosing what is better a variator or an automatic transmission, from the point of view of the most common breakdowns, the choice should be made towards the classic automatic transmission. This is caused by fewer malfunctions that can cause complete immobilization of the machine. Also, an important nuance is the small number of specialists capable of performing high-quality repair of the variator.

Resource of automatic transmission units and service life of continuously variable transmission elements

One of the key factors that distinguishes a variator from an automatic transmission is the duration of operation before overhaul. The undisputed leader here is the automatic transmission. With a timely oil change, it will last 300-400 thousand kilometers. CVT will require replacement of the belt when the odometer approaches 100 thousand. After replacement, the variator will work up to 120-150 thousand km. At the same time, during operation, a continuously variable transmission requires a higher quality and more expensive oil.

If the belt is not replaced in a timely manner, it may break. This trouble occurs when driving and causes severe damage to the unit. Overhaul or replacement of the unit in this case is inevitable, so it is not so difficult to determine that a variator or an automatic machine is more reliable.

Advantages of an automatic transmission

A hydromechanical automatic transmission has a number of significant advantages over a variator:

• Automatic transmission is more reliable, regardless of the mode of operation of the car;
• the cost of repairs is lower;
• it is easier to find a professional who can perform high-quality automatic transmission repairs;
• easy vehicle control, especially for drivers who have changed from a manual transmission.

Modern automatic transmissions allow you to extend the engine life by optimally choosing the gear ratio depending on the road conditions. The absence of a rigid connection between the motor and the transmission eliminates shock loads. Also, mistakes of beginners with the wrong choice of gear are excluded.

Pros of a continuously variable transmission

The advantages that distinguish the variator from an automatic transmission:

• better dynamic characteristics, since there is no interruption in the supply of torque, which is necessary in the automatic transmission to change the gear ratio;
• significantly lower fuel consumption;
• good smoothness of the course, since there are no jerks present in the machines;
• up to 10% higher efficiency.

While driving a car with a variator, you can notice the monotony of the engine. This is due to the fact that the electronics maintains optimal rpm corresponding to the required torque, and the speed change occurs only with the help of the CVT. This property allows you to maximize the service life of the power plant.

Disadvantages of the machine

The difference between an automatic transmission and a variator allows us to highlight the following disadvantages of a classic machine:

• poor acceleration dynamics;
• high fuel consumption, since a lot of energy is lost in the transmission of power through the transmission fluid;
• jerks are noticeable in motion, and the more worn out the box, the stronger the jerks.

When choosing an automatic transmission or a variator, it should be borne in mind that the automatic transmission requires filling in a volume of oil that is much larger than the CVT. It is necessary to change the transmission fluid regularly, which introduces certain financial costs for the maintenance of the machine. When the clutches burn, the entire volume of the transmission must also be replaced.

Cons of the variator

A list of how the variator differs from the automatic transmission for the worse:

• very often only authorized dealers can perform high-quality repairs, which increases the cost, and also complicates maintenance in the case of a provincial city;
• belt replacement is expensive;
• electronics are more complicated than an automatic transmission, so not so many specialists take on its repair and flashing.

During operation, it is allowed to fill in oil only intended for a specific car model. Getting it in small towns is a problem. Filling with oil of similar properties can cause increased wear and serious damage.

Comparison of the economic component of operation

The transmission fluid in a CVT has to be changed more often and its cost is higher. At the same time, the automatic transmission requires almost 2 times more oil during each change, therefore, according to this criterion, the boxes practically do not differ.

Economical fuel consumption is unrivaled by the CVT. Despite all attempts by automakers to equip the automatic transmission with an economy mode, the low efficiency of the machine does not allow it to approach the performance of continuously variable transmissions. The main difference of the variator in the form of a rather rigid transfer of force from the engine to the transmission allows you to save well on refueling.

Automatic transmission repair is much cheaper than CVT. The variator loses both in mileage before repair, and in sensitivity to correct operation. The low number of high quality CVT specialists is also a factor in the high cost of repairs.

In order to determine which transmission is more suitable for a particular car owner, you need to know his main requirements for the car. For example, the desire to pay little for fuel can be satisfied by a continuously variable transmission. At the same time, it is worth buying an iron horse with a CVT in a small town without a developed network of service centers, only having decided in advance on the place of maintenance.

If you have any questions - leave them in the comments below the article. We or our visitors will be happy to answer them.

When choosing a car, every motorist knows well what type of transmission is preferable for him - "automatic" or mechanic. And if the differences between these two boxes are clear to the majority, then this is how the “automatic” differs from the variator, few will say. It will be difficult for an untrained, inexperienced car enthusiast to understand this issue.

The first thing I want to say is that automatic and variator transmissions are completely different, both in terms of operation and structure. The only similarity between the two is the gear shifting function. How are these transmissions different? Which is better, an "automatic" or a variator? We will deal with these issues.

Characteristics of both types of transmission

I'll start with a well-known automatic transmission to many owners. It consists of:

• reducer;
• torque converter.

The latter provides clutch and is responsible for gear shifting. The task of the gearbox is to keep all pairs of gears in constant engagement. The result is a single mechanism with several steps.
The variator works without switching speeds. The principle of operation is as follows. The driven and driven tapered pulleys transmit the gear ratio. They are located opposite each other. They are held together by chains or a metal trapezoidal strap.

Due to the movement of the pulleys, the vehicle is accelerated without changing the engine speed. A motor paired with a variator transmission has a longer resource, since it is not operated at high speeds.

Determine the type of checkpoint

The difference between a variator and an “automatic” is quite obvious. It is expressed by technical features, as well as the specifics of work. And if you do not take into account the technical part, then how do you know which transmission is installed in your car? Is it possible to determine the type of gearbox based only on the behavior of the car? I think this question is of great interest. I will answer it as concretely and understandably as possible.


Having reached a certain number of revolutions, the automatic transmission switches to an up or down gear. At the moment of switching, you should feel a characteristic slight jolt. It is similar to a push when shifting a manual transmission and helps to determine the type of gearbox - CVT or "automatic". The gear change of the automatic transmission occurs only at 3.5 thousand revolutions. Also, the noise level of the engine increases when the car picks up speed.

What is the main difference?

Now I will explain how to distinguish a variator from a "machine"? What is characteristic of the operation of the variator is that it does not make any gear changes. The machine runs smoothly and smoothly. When gaining speed, the revolutions change slightly. In fact, such a transmission has an infinite number of gears. My personal experience has shown that driving a car with a CVT is much more comfortable and convenient.

Here is a detailed list of the main differences between the variant and the machine. Automatic transmission:

1. Does not provide the car with swiftness and dynamism.
2. Contributes to higher fuel consumption compared to a machine equipped with a CVT.
3. Requires frequent high volume oil changes.
4. Repairing an automatic transmission will cost you much less.
5. "Automatic", on the contrary, has a torque converter, which is responsible for changing gears.

CVT box:

1. For its repair, highly qualified and truly professional craftsmen are required, who have a lot of experience.
2. Repairs take a long time.
3. The variator works without shifting gears.

Not an easy choice

What kind of transmission should you prefer? What is more reliable than an automatic machine or a variator? Which transmission will last longer and not be a hassle for you? Compared to an automatic transmission, the variator wins in terms of operation. It provides confident acceleration, contributes to fuel economy, which is important in the context of constantly rising prices. The resource of the variator transmission significantly exceeds the "automatic".

There is no unequivocal answer to the question which is more reliable. Only your personal preferences and desires can serve as a guide here. I can advise one thing. If you drive exclusively in the city, then you can choose a variator. This type of transmission will help you save money on fuel.


If you regularly travel out of town or like to travel a lot on any highways and roads, then preference should be given only to the "good old machine". Believe me, it will be safer this way. For those who have currency now, I will tell you an example of an acquaintance. He also could not decide which was the best choice. As a result, I bought 2 cars with different types of transmissions. Leaving the city, he drives an Audi with a gun in order to get to the right place as soon as possible. Goes to work on a behe with a variator. A simple solution that is not available to everyone. But he really saves.

In a word, a variator or an automatic machine - it's up to you. There is no single correct solution here. Everything is strictly individual. Be sure to watch the video and read the technical specifications of both transmissions in more detail. This will make it clearer for you which gearbox is most suitable for you, because a person, buying a car, plans to operate it. Naturally, you can go on a trip on a variator, but you won't be able to scoff at such a box. Such cars deserve the title of non-living, where everything is worth considering.