As you’ll be aware, there are two main types of car gearbox, manual or automatic. But there’s also a third option – the semi-automatic!
Never heard of a semi-automatic car?
Then you’re probably wondering what is a semi-automatic car? And how does it work?
Let us explain just exactly what a semi-automatic car is…
A semi-automatic car, as its name suggests features a semi-automatic transmission.
What does semi-automatic transmission mean?
Semi-automatic transmission means that the vehicle combines manual and automatic gearboxes - offering the best of both worlds.
What is the cost of a semi-automatic car?
A car with a semi-automatic transmission can be a bit more expensive than a regular manual car; however, semi-automatic transmission has a lot of benefits.
What is the main appeal of having a semi-automatic car?
The main appeal of having a semi-automatic car is that the driver has the option to control the gears manually or automatically, whichever they prefer at the time.
Semi-automatic vs automatic: What is the difference between an automatic and a semi-automatic car?
The main difference between an automatic and semi-automatic car is the driver has the ability to manually change gear in a semi-automatic car.
How does an automatic transmission work?
In an automatic car, there is no alternative as to how to make gear changes.
In an automatic, gear changes are carried out by the vehicle, rather than the driver - the car’s computer determines what gear is selected and when it gets changed.
So what is a semi-automatic gearbox? And how does it work?
Let’s look at the semi-automatic transmission in more detail….
Semi-automatic transmission
How does semi-automatic transmission work?
A semi-automatic transmission takes the basics of both manual and automatic transmission and combines them.
The kinetic energy produced by the engine helps rotate the wheels, while carefully tuned gear ratios control how fast or slow your wheels spin.
Crucially, in a semi-automatic car there is no clutch pedal, as is the case with an automatic car. Instead, the car’s CPU and sensors operate the clutch when the driver changes gear. As a result, it's really easy to drive a semi-auto
In a semi-automatic car, a set of actuators and a hydraulic motor sit where the gear lever and clutch pedal would be in a manual.
How does the vehicle's CPU operate the clutch?
The vehicle's computer manages engine torque; speed; accelerator pedal position; and other functions.
When the CPU detects a scenario that requires a gear change, it engages the clutch and temporarily disconnects the semi automatic gear system. After this the shift actuators will shift gears and disengage the clutch so the connection between transmission and engine is re-established.
How to drive a semi-automatic car: How do you change gear manually, in a car with a semi-automatic gearbox?
The system in a semi-automatic car affords the driver easy control over gear selection, by providing steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters (or a modified shift lever).
This means the driver can control gears usually with an upshift/downshift method.
What are the other benefits of a semi-automatic gearbox?
As already mentioned, a car with semi-automatic transmission is, like a fully automatic vehicle, easy to drive.
Semi-automatic vehicles generally also have better fuel efficiency than a standard automatic
Additionally, by having the ability to drive a vehicle with a semi-automatic gearbox using the manual option, it allows you to have more control of the vehicle. In certain situations, this comes in really useful, such as driving in snow and ice or navigating steep hills.
Think there may be a problem with your car gearbox? Here's 10 signs your gearbox could be failing.
What are the common semi-automatic gearbox problems?
Many of the common problems with a semi-automatic gearbox are similar to that of a normal gearbox , for example:
- Burning smell
- Slipping gears
- Delayed or no response when in gear
- Car shaking or grinding in gear
If you notice any of the above issues, get your car booked in as soon as possible to avoid making the problem worse .
Semi-automatic V’s automatic car: Other differences between an automatic and semi-automatic car
Autos usually have the gear box layout "PRND" (Park, Reverse, Neutral, and Drive) - Remember, you should never drive with the gearstick in neutral as coasting is a bad driving technique.
Meanwhile, a semi-automatic car might be operated via a lever or a push-button system on the wheel.
A semi-auto will not have a Park mode and there will be an Automatic mode replacing the Drive mode.
What cars are semi-automatic?
Semi-automatic gearboxes are not common, but do feature in a number of cars:
- Many Ferraris, including the 599 GTO.
- Vauxhall - in smaller cars such as the Corsa.
Ford - the firm’s early semi-auto appeared in the 1970 Maverick, and has developed into the Easytronic gearbox, which is used in some Fiesta models.
Thinking of buying a semi-automatic car?
Start Rescue offers breakdown cover for semi-automatic cars.
More helpful advice from Start Rescue
Think you may have a problem with your car? Experiencing juddering when driving your car? Here's some advice on what do I do if your car is juddering.
