Auto blog driving 101: A step by step guide to using Automated Manual Transmission

Most cars are either manual or automatic transmission gearboxes, and many car makers are shifting to an automatic transmission as the default options for most trims. For many cars, which are equipped with Automated Manual Transmission (AMT)that has a manual or sport mode that is similar to a manual gearbox. The key difference of AMT is the lack of a clutch but has an automated clutch system that shifts gears manually. Okay, this may seem confusing because AMT is equipped with an electronic clutch that is activated by moving from “D” to the “+/-“ section of the shifter. Quite a number come with it, but some car makers just go with the standard automatic transmission. 

The main difference of AMT to AT, is that AT has D1, D2, L, L1 as the gears used when “DRIVE” is not suitable anymore. Between the two which is AMT and AT, using AT is much simpler and less confusing. Which is why these step by step guide will come in useful for that. But AMT is better when it comes to the function of semi-shifting the AMT like an AT. Though it takes a bit of timing and some care to use manual or sport mode better. Examples of it are Mitsubishi Mivec and other trannies installed in other cars. When driving AMT, there are some things to expect and it should be noted! 

1.) AMT is not good for fast acceleration on automatic mode. 

2.) Let the differential downshift because it is still an automatic, don’t for it to engine brake. 

3.) AMT is not good at uphill driving, shifting to sport mode is better. The engine won’t be stressed too much! 

4.) Use the hand brake a lot when hanging on an incline.

When driving here are the simple steps to take when using AMT in these driving conditions. These will save your transmission from getting damaged and to make it last longer!

1.) When the car starts moving, Shift from N to D but don’t make the shifting abrupt. The manual mode can be engaged while moving anytime, its gearbox is ECU controlled with hydraulic assistance.

2.) Once the shifter is in “+/-“ then you’ll need to shift to + when the speed is 20 kph plus. The indicator will show 2 in the indicator.

3.) Next, when the shift needs a higher speed then it will be 3 in the indicator, push it up. Then feel out the engine that it isn’t strained or a too low a gear for the speed.

4.) When there’s enough speed, the shift up to 4, better check what speed is the gearbox. It might not be the same for all AMT gearboxes for cars.

5.) Most AMTs will automatically shift down when losing speed but better reference the driving conditions. Downshifting can be done but be careful.

6.) When going uphill start at 1 and shift up to 2 or 3, as long as there is momentum and no slow shifting that is okay. Just remember to cycle from 1 to 3 as seen in the indicator, to minimize transmission strain.

7.) Do the process and feel out the engine before shifting. This works for overtaking to make shifting faster, but be careful though.

Just follow these steps and always consult your car manual on how to use Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) best! Remember shift to manual or sport mode when on inclines and overtaking too. Never downshift similar to engine brake because it’s not advised.