Typically, an automatic transmission is considered more reliable than a CVT. Here are the main reasons:
Machine:
* Proven Technology: Automatic transmissions have been around for decades and have a proven history of reliability.
* Simple Mechanical Components: Machines use gears and planetary gears that are relatively easy to maintain and repair.
* Overheat Protection: Automatics have built-in cooling systems to protect against overheating, which can extend the life of the transmission.
CVT:
* Relatively new technology: CVTs have been introduced relatively recently and their long-term reliability is not yet fully known.
* Complex mechanical components: CVTs use belts or chains, which can be more susceptible to wear and failure than gears.
* Temperature Sensitivity: CVTs may be more sensitive to overheating, which may result in shorter life.
Factors affecting reliability:
In addition to the type of gearbox, other factors can affect reliability, such as:
*Care and Maintenance: Regularly changing transmission oil and filters is critical to extending service life.
* Driving style: Aggressive driving may increase the load on the transmission.
* Build Quality: Automatic and CVT transmissions from different manufacturers can vary in reliability.
Conclusion:
In general, automatics are considered more reliable than CVTs due to their simpler design and proven technology. However, actual reliability may vary depending on care, driving style and build quality.