# Automatic or mechanical By [Lora](https://paragraph.com/@lora) · 2023-09-30 machine, mechanics, transmission --- It's good when you know exactly what kind of car you need, down to the characteristics and additional functions. However, in practice, it often turns out that, even after looking at the model, the motorist is faced with a choice. Probably the most common problem is to decide on the gearbox: automatic or mechanical? We are happy to help you in making this difficult and undoubtedly important decision. Automatic or mechanical? Very often you have to observe how when choosing a car, the presence of an automatic transmission in it does him a disservice. And although many have already appreciated the convenience of its use, there is a strong belief that they are very unreliable and difficult to repair. Well, you can agree on the repair account. And it's not the complexity at all, but the lack of proper service. Although there are already enough craftsmen, both at the service station and in private garages, performing repairs of automatic machines. Just keep in mind that by purchasing a car based on the ease and cheapness of repairs, you initially program yourself for these troubles. It is considered normal and correct to buy a car for a comfortable and comfortable ride, and not for convenient repairs. In addition, all more or less new and modern models, the complexity and price of components are higher than their 10 – 15-year-old counterparts. As for the reliability of the automatic transmission, then you can disagree. The complexity of the design is still, no matter where it goes. But any modern technology and equipment is much more complicated than the one we used 10, 20, 30 or more years ago. For example, buying a TV, will you give preference to a foreign plasma panel or Knights and Horizons who have filled all the counters? I think the answer is obvious. So it is in the case of choosing a transmission. Americans have almost forgotten about the manual transmission, completely entrusting this process to the machine. And they are not so stupid in these matters (despite Zadornov's statements). And reliability directly depends on proper operation and timely maintenance. And if the manual for the car recommends replacing the oil in the gearbox every 40-50 thousand kilometers (depends on the car model), then it must be done. And without fail!!! In addition, use lubricants specified by the manufacturer. And without our amateur activity. Although it is not for nothing that they say that a Russian person reads the instructions only after he finally breaks something. There is no doubt, the mechanical transmission has a number of advantages inherent only to it. It allows, at the discretion of the driver, to reach and keep the required number of revolutions, take measures to save fuel, the ability to start a car from a tow. If you suddenly get stuck in the snow or sand, try to get out of the swing, etc. And the automatic machine is primarily comfort. Modern boxes have many modes of operation, for all occasions – sports, snow, ice, long climb, etc. And although they do not allow you to fight for fuel economy, they treat the engine much more carefully. In addition, they are very convenient when driving in the city. And on the highway. By the way, when starting to move from a place uphill, there is absolutely no rollback. Almost everyone who had a car with an automatic transmission, the next car is purchased with exactly the same transmission. Moreover, with each new model, these boxes are becoming more and more perfect and functional. For skeptics, I would like to say that the automation in the car is designed to facilitate driving, and not complicate the life of the owner of this car. Go (or rather ride) in step with the times!!! And the service life of automatic boxes is not regulated. With timely and proper maintenance, of course. --- *Originally published on [Lora](https://paragraph.com/@lora/automatic-or-mechanical)*