Automatic transmissions can be a headache. Learn which problematic transmissions generate the most costs in Brazil and how to avoid losses when buying a used one.
Os automatic gearboxes The problems of some vehicles in Brazil have become a real headache for drivers, and there’s a reason for this. Experts and users report failures, sudden shifts, and high maintenance costs in several transmissions, particularly between 2010 and 2017 in the domestic market.
The problem affects cars from major manufacturers and popular models — so it’s worth paying extra attention when choosing a used car.
Advances in technology and the search for comfort have made automatic transmissions increasingly common, but the promise of “driving without pressing the clutch” has not always been fulfilled with ease.
Systems such as CVT (continuously variable transmission), dual-clutch (“DSG” or “DCT”) or simple automated systems began to present even more visible failures in the heavy traffic of Brazilian cities.
The automatic transmissions that caused the most problems
1. Fiat Dualogic/GSR
This automated transmission was used in models such as Palio, Punto, Linea, Argo and even the Strada.
Reports point to “jerks” when changing gears and hesitation when accelerating, to the point where the user felt that “the car was thinking before engaging” the gear.
A serious error in the gear selection sensor caused the transmission to go into neutral without warning, leading to a recall of 11.897 units in 2018.
Maintenance costs were high — parts like clutches or actuators could cost up to R$6 or more.
Therefore, when analyzing a used car with this transmission, check the maintenance history and avoid it if you don’t trust it.
