Are auto trannies as reliable as sticks?

ken.vs.ryu · 12-09-2006, 04:48 PM

I think I need an auto in my next truck. Can I expect the same reliability?

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drguitarum2005 · 12-09-2006, 04:49 PM

there are LOTS of threads related to auto vs. manual. search around

seanz0rz · 12-09-2006, 05:35 PM

just to spoon feed...

the auto tranny we had in our '90 v6 4runner was excellent. we towed with it all the time, and when we sold it with over 150k miles, it was still running great.

the one i have in my 98 is also excellent, and if you take care of them (ie changing the fluid at the reccomended interval) they will last a long long time.

spudrunner · 12-09-2006, 05:45 PM

Currently have two 4 runners an 88 22re and a 91 3vze both manual transmissions. Just like the idea of more control in certain situations plus a little better gas mileage and the manual transmissions are pretty much bulletproof, simple maintenance.

AH64ID · 12-09-2006, 11:03 PM

The toyota auto tranny is a very very very reliable trans... I have asked many trans shops about them and it has an excellent record. Just like the Chev 4L80E.. they never really break in the same spot.. no common failure (as long as you dont cook it).l.. so put some good fluid in it (Amsoil is the best), get a trans temp gauge and it will last and last and last....

Elton · 12-09-2006, 11:08 PM

ive never owned a auto and i don't plan on it but thats just me and my family

MMA_Alex · 12-10-2006, 09:12 AM

keep up on the fluid changes. No it probably wont make it as long as the manuals do with proper fluid changes, but you should still be able to do 200k+ on it without any issues.

If you look around most of the people with auto trans issues have no idea when the fluid was changed, or if it was even changed.

KEEP UP WITH THE MAINENENCE and you'll keep it running for a long time

CJM · 12-10-2006, 10:10 AM

My T100 has 188k on it, the PO chnaged fluids every 15-20k. It shifts soooo smoothly, probably helps I have a tranny cooler though.

InternetRoadkill · 12-10-2006, 10:27 AM

The reliability depends on the user. If you keep up with the fluid changes and don't try to tow things without a good cooler, autos hold up very well. The one in my truck had 200K miles on it when I rebuilt it. All it needed was a fresh set of friction plates and a new set of seals. The key to longevity in an auto is to keep the fluid clean and cool. Compare this to the manual which will typically need a new clutch every 100K miles.

I think the gear strength is pretty much the same for both manuals and autos. Autos have more parts, but most of them are for control of the clutches.

MMA_Alex · 12-10-2006, 11:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by InternetRoadkill

The reliability depends on the user. If you keep up with the fluid changes and don't try to tow things without a good cooler, autos hold up very well. The one in my truck had 200K miles on it when I rebuilt it. All it needed was a fresh set of friction plates and a new set of seals. The key to longevity in an auto is to keep the fluid clean and cool. Compare this to the manual which will typically need a new clutch every 100K miles.

I think the gear strength is pretty much the same for both manuals and autos. Autos have more parts, but most of them are for control of the clutches.

Clutch life will depend on how its driven, and how good the person who drives it is at driving a m/t. Some people can kill a clutch in 15k miles. I know a guy with a toyota pickup who has the origional clutch with no issues at 275k. It really depends on how its driven.

mt_goat · 12-10-2006, 12:04 PM

I agree with the earlier posts, but let me add other drivetrain components will be more reliable with the auto because the smoother starts and shifting. The main thing that kills auto trannys is heat.

91_4x4runner · 12-10-2006, 12:35 PM

I have 235K on the original clutch and it slips a little, but its not terrible.

Mister Willie · 12-10-2006, 01:26 PM

manual transmissions are better. Just my opinion. Less moving stuff, more fun to drive, better gas mileage, just gotta use an extra hand and foot, not too difficult.

Guardian_Saint · 12-10-2006, 01:54 PM

The auto sometime have problem on those solenoid which won't shift when you stop and will stuck on gear 2 and that cause a no go when you are trying to go, my auto will only max out at 65 but if I'm lucky it will go 70 to 75. Also the rpm will not go over 3k at time will fill sluggish which maybe solenoid problem, aamco know this problem. The good about manuel is when you are giong uphill, you have the advantage then the auto do, thats why I am giong to swap a 5 speed in.

Red3.slow · 12-10-2006, 04:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 91_4x4runner

I have 235K on the original clutch and it slips a little, but its not terrible.

Ditto factory clutch took a dump on me a 193K

4Runner210 · 12-10-2006, 05:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Guardian_Saint

The auto sometime have problem on those solenoid which won't shift when you stop and will stuck on gear 2 and that cause a no go when you are trying to go, my auto will only max out at 65 but if I'm lucky it will go 70 to 75. Also the rpm will not go over 3k at time will fill sluggish which maybe solenoid problem, aamco know this problem. The good about manuel is when you are giong uphill, you have the advantage then the auto do, thats why I am giong to swap a 5 speed in.

Um......huh?

What do you mean you have an advantage going uphill? And really don't know what you were trying to say.

rpeAMP · 12-10-2006, 05:39 PM

What is your next buy going to be?

I just bought a Tacoma, and supposedly, the auto has a higher tow rating, is faster than the manual, and gets better gas mileage. As far as longitivity, well, we'll have to see about that! I'm thinking it will last a long time though (or at least I hope).

fork · 12-10-2006, 05:44 PM

once I figured out how to operate the overdrive properly, and be able to make it shift by tapping the gas pedal, the auto isn't bad at all. it's not nearly as fun as a stick though. if i could trade my truck for an exact replica with a manual transmission i would do it in a heartbeat.

AH64ID · 12-11-2006, 12:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Guardian_Saint

The auto sometime have problem on those solenoid which won't shift when you stop and will stuck on gear 2 and that cause a no go when you are trying to go, my auto will only max out at 65 but if I'm lucky it will go 70 to 75. Also the rpm will not go over 3k at time will fill sluggish which maybe solenoid problem, aamco know this problem. The good about manuel is when you are giong uphill, you have the advantage then the auto do, thats why I am giong to swap a 5 speed in.

English please???

what advantages do manuals have going uphill?

mt_goat · 12-11-2006, 06:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AH64ID

English please???

what advantages do manuals have going uphill?

Since we're talking performace now, the biggest difference is most autos have 4 gears vs most manuals have 5 gears. Plus with our trucks anyway the manual gearing is closer ratio. So as far as climbing steep mountain passes on the highway with a full load the manual would have a big advantage. If you're talking steep 4x4 trails I'll take the auto anyday over a manual.

AH64ID · 12-11-2006, 04:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mt_goat

Since we're talking performace now, the biggest difference is most autos have 4 gears vs most manuals have 5 gears. Plus with our trucks anyway the manual gearing is closer ratio. So as far as climbing steep mountain passes on the highway with a full load the manual would have a big advantage. If you're talking steep 4x4 trails I'll take the auto anyday over a manual.

The top three gears of a 5spd and auto are very close 2nd(A) is 1.53, and 3rd(M) is 1.45, 3rd (A) and 4th(M) are the same at 1:1.. and OD isnt really a hill climning gear... so really not too much advantage there...The thing about the auto is the torque converter can unlock giving more rpm than needed which makes for more power... but it also depends on the power the motor makes.. never driven a auto 22RE... I know there are times when an extra 300 rpm would put me above 3K, and it seems that right at 3K my motor has a ton more torque for sustaining speed....

Just apples and oranges... and each does have its realm....

thefallman · 12-11-2006, 05:20 PM

sorry guys an auto is way way better then any manual.

When you keep in mind 2 things. HEAT and PROPER OIL CHANGES. i have almost 300k miles on my 3vze auto tranny and it is now behind a 5vzfe and feels like it did when it was new. If you use the overdrive properly and the ect it make all the differnce in the world and isnt sluggish at all. I have had both, and i can tell you when wheeling there is nothing that can beat a good automatic tranny.

This truck is a work truck as well and has towed 4000+lbs loads countless times. towed the boat to the river every summer. moved me accross the country and back towing an eclipse. and moved my family halfway back accross the country again this year. Lots of hill towing and as long as you use the automatic properly it works fine. Just dont leave it in drive and expect to keep you tranny when towing a hill.

I cant begin to count the times i have pulled the manuals out when wheeling, snow/mud. Neither can i count the times i have gone places the manuals couldnt follow either. anyway just my 2 cents. i used to swear by manuals i even have a manual i bought to replace my auto when i bought the truck because supposedly it had a bad transmission according to the previous owner. but it didnt and i fell in love with my auto. wouldnt trade it for anything.

trythis · 12-11-2006, 07:26 PM

I have an auto 22re, and I really like it. I didn't want a manual after driving one for 10 years (s-10) because it wore out my shoulder. I attempted to tow 3000 pounds with a manual once, and the clutch is a limiting factor unless you have a granny (4L) and my manual was 2wd, so no moving up a hill when overloaded.

My automatic's torque converter does help a lot with towing and keeping my shoulder from hurting.
I also therefore prefer the auto, but there again I haven't driven a 5 speed yota, just my wifes 4 speed 2wd truck. that she doesn't have any more :-(

CJM · 12-11-2006, 07:32 PM

Thing is after driving a stick shift in my vette for a long time (whichis highly unforgiving in your shifts, its very tight), my old 2wd F250 and various other cars I am sick of shifting and sick of playing with the clutch.

Not all auto tranmissions are built the same, yota continually builds better through there contracters vs anyone else.

mt_goat · 12-12-2006, 05:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spaugh

I got to call BS on that one. I have a 5 speed 5vzfe(with140,000 miles on it) and an auto 5vzfe(30,000 miles on it). The manual has way more balls than the auto period. I was able to get up some very steep hills on my last trip only because I had a manaul. The guys with the autos with same engine couldn't make it up.

Well you're both right depending on the trail. If it is something that takes finese and slow crawling, the auto really shines. If it's something that takes wheel spin, speed and momentum the manual may be the ticket.

12-09-2006, 04:49 PM	#2 (permalink)
drguitarum2005 Contributing Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Houston (home), Atlanta (school), Cincinnati (work) Posts: 2,235	there are LOTS of threads related to auto vs. manual. search around __________________ -David 2000 Taco TRD Access Cab v6 \| 5spd \| 33" BFG A/Ts \| 33" PC Mud Terrains \| OME 882's \| Bilstein HD struts front \| Rancho shocks rear \| Chevy 63" leaf spring swap \| Custom sliders \| Custom front bumper \|3" BL \| U-Bolt flip \| Flowmaster exhaust \| Kenwood Speakers \| Grey Wire Mod \| Aux. Reverse Lights \| Deckplate Mod \| Lots of lights Pictures

12-09-2006, 05:35 PM	#3 (permalink)
seanz0rz Contributing Member Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Cal Poly Pomona or Redlands, CA Posts: 1,282	just to spoon feed... the auto tranny we had in our '90 v6 4runner was excellent. we towed with it all the time, and when we sold it with over 150k miles, it was still running great. the one i have in my 98 is also excellent, and if you take care of them (ie changing the fluid at the reccomended interval) they will last a long long time. __________________ 1998 Toyota 4Runner SR5 V6 4x4 in Evergreen Pearl Metallic, Sonoran Steel #1, 285/75R16 BFG A/T, Elocker retrofit, Tundra calipers, brembo blanks, hawk lts pads, CarPC in custom center console with molded Indash touchscreen, KC daylighters mounted on Surco Safari rack, Custom sound system, 4xinnovation sliders, sleeping platform, Shrockworks front bumper, 1" 4crawler body lift, etc. Pictures Photobucket is being updated, if a picture i posted no longer works, please PM me.

12-09-2006, 11:03 PM	#5 (permalink)
AH64ID Contributing Member Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Idaho Posts: 4,638	The toyota auto tranny is a very very very reliable trans... I have asked many trans shops about them and it has an excellent record. Just like the Chev 4L80E.. they never really break in the same spot.. no common failure (as long as you dont cook it).l.. so put some good fluid in it (Amsoil is the best), get a trans temp gauge and it will last and last and last.... __________________ -John '05 Dodge 3500 SRW 4x4 SLT 5.9 Cummins QC LB NV5600 2003 SR5 4Runner, V6 4WD. 1" cornfed lift Previous Toyota's '92 Red Truck NALA Speed doesn't kill, its the sudden stop that hurts.

12-09-2006, 11:08 PM	#6 (permalink)
Elton Contributing Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Siletz,Oregon Posts: 10,663	ive never owned a auto and i don't plan on it but thats just me and my family __________________ My Truck 98 4runner SR5 3.4L 5spd 4x4 E-Locker Mods Mom 07 Tundra d-cab limited 5.7L 4x4 auto sister 92 pickup SR5 X-cab 3.0L 5spd 4x4 Papa 89 Pickup SR5 X-cab 4x4 3.0L 5spd/98 4runner SR5 4x4 auto 3.4L R.I.P 91 4runner SR5 4x4 3.0L 5spd Totaled 5/13/06 My Wreck

12-10-2006, 10:10 AM	#8 (permalink)
CJM Registered User Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Central NJ Posts: 4,561	My T100 has 188k on it, the PO chnaged fluids every 15-20k. It shifts soooo smoothly, probably helps I have a tranny cooler though. __________________ 96' T100 SR5 4x4, ISR mod, Custom ABS snorkel, KC 57's Hella optilux el cheapo backup lights. Cobra 19III CB, Firestick 4ft antenna, Bilstein shocks. Be polite. Be professional. But, have a plan to kill everyone you meet.

12-09-2006, 05:45 PM	#4 (permalink)
spudrunner Registered User Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Post Falls, Idaho Posts: 146	Currently have two 4 runners an 88 22re and a 91 3vze both manual transmissions. Just like the idea of more control in certain situations plus a little better gas mileage and the manual transmissions are pretty much bulletproof, simple maintenance.

12-10-2006, 09:12 AM	#7 (permalink)
MMA_Alex Registered User Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Downeast, ME/Rochester, NY Posts: 1,421	keep up on the fluid changes. No it probably wont make it as long as the manuals do with proper fluid changes, but you should still be able to do 200k+ on it without any issues. If you look around most of the people with auto trans issues have no idea when the fluid was changed, or if it was even changed. KEEP UP WITH THE MAINENENCE and you'll keep it running for a long time

12-10-2006, 10:27 AM	#9 (permalink)
InternetRoadkill Registered User Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: San Antonio, Texas Posts: 941	The reliability depends on the user. If you keep up with the fluid changes and don't try to tow things without a good cooler, autos hold up very well. The one in my truck had 200K miles on it when I rebuilt it. All it needed was a fresh set of friction plates and a new set of seals. The key to longevity in an auto is to keep the fluid clean and cool. Compare this to the manual which will typically need a new clutch every 100K miles. I think the gear strength is pretty much the same for both manuals and autos. Autos have more parts, but most of them are for control of the clutches.

12-10-2006, 12:04 PM	#11 (permalink)
mt_goat Contributing Member Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Oklahoma State Posts: 8,920	I agree with the earlier posts, but let me add other drivetrain components will be more reliable with the auto because the smoother starts and shifting. The main thing that kills auto trannys is heat. __________________ ~Dale~ 93 4X4 ext-cab, auto, SR5, 3.4 V6, supercharged, 2.1" pulley, URD fuel mods, Aquamist WI, IPT valve body mod, dual cases, 4" superlift front, Alcan springs rear, 33 BFG MT, ARB locked front & rear, 5.29 US Gears, RB 1" Body Lift, 1.5" ball joint spacers, manual hubs, TJM T-17, Warn m8000.

12-10-2006, 12:35 PM	#12 (permalink)
91_4x4runner Contributing Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: San Antonio, TX Posts: 1,078	I have 235K on the original clutch and it slips a little, but its not terrible. __________________ ~Eric 1991 4Runner 3.0L 4x4 Black, 31" Michelin M/S tires, OME-901's 1992 Lexus SC400 4.0 V8, Green with Tan interior (donor) (PM me for parts) Near Future: FI 1UZ swap. (June) Far Future mods: F/R Lockers, SAS, 35's. UZswap.com - A discussion forum dedicated specifically to swapping UZ engines into Toyota trucks and 4Runners

12-10-2006, 01:26 PM	#13 (permalink)
Mister Willie Registered User Join Date: Oct 2006 Posts: 2,154	manual transmissions are better. Just my opinion. Less moving stuff, more fun to drive, better gas mileage, just gotta use an extra hand and foot, not too difficult.

12-10-2006, 01:54 PM	#14 (permalink)
Guardian_Saint Registered User Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: California Posts: 415	The auto sometime have problem on those solenoid which won't shift when you stop and will stuck on gear 2 and that cause a no go when you are trying to go, my auto will only max out at 65 but if I'm lucky it will go 70 to 75. Also the rpm will not go over 3k at time will fill sluggish which maybe solenoid problem, aamco know this problem. The good about manuel is when you are giong uphill, you have the advantage then the auto do, thats why I am giong to swap a 5 speed in. __________________ My Rig - 1992 TOYOTA 4RUNNER, 3VZE V6, R150 5 Speed Transmission (5 Speed Swap, running on AUTO ECU & Wire Harness) 4x4, ( 225,500 miles ) all bonestock. Replace HG at 215,000 miles ( MLS HG). 1992 Toyota 4runner V6 A/T ECU/ECM for sale, part # 89661-35770, asking price at $100.00 USD. Free Shipping in the US.

12-10-2006, 05:39 PM	#17 (permalink)
rpeAMP Registered User Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: San Antonio, TX Posts: 420	What is your next buy going to be? I just bought a Tacoma, and supposedly, the auto has a higher tow rating, is faster than the manual, and gets better gas mileage. As far as longitivity, well, we'll have to see about that! I'm thinking it will last a long time though (or at least I hope). __________________ Preston Edwards 1992 4Runner SR5 V6 4WD (5 Spd.) 246,000 miles & counting 2" Downey coils, 32x11.5x15 BFG A/Ts, Rockcrawler Series 51 wheels, Magnaflow exhaust, Yakima roof rack, ARB bull bar, SAW Torsion bars, (4) PIAA 520s, Cobra 18 WX ST II CB w/ Firestik antenna, hp iPaq GPS 2008 Toyota 4Runner Limted 4X4 15,000 miles & counting

12-10-2006, 05:44 PM	#18 (permalink)
fork Registered User Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: out in the pacific Posts: 649	once I figured out how to operate the overdrive properly, and be able to make it shift by tapping the gas pedal, the auto isn't bad at all. it's not nearly as fun as a stick though. if i could trade my truck for an exact replica with a manual transmission i would do it in a heartbeat.

12-11-2006, 05:20 PM	#22 (permalink)
thefallman Registered User Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Walla Walla, WA Posts: 550	sorry guys an auto is way way better then any manual. When you keep in mind 2 things. HEAT and PROPER OIL CHANGES. i have almost 300k miles on my 3vze auto tranny and it is now behind a 5vzfe and feels like it did when it was new. If you use the overdrive properly and the ect it make all the differnce in the world and isnt sluggish at all. I have had both, and i can tell you when wheeling there is nothing that can beat a good automatic tranny. This truck is a work truck as well and has towed 4000+lbs loads countless times. towed the boat to the river every summer. moved me accross the country and back towing an eclipse. and moved my family halfway back accross the country again this year. Lots of hill towing and as long as you use the automatic properly it works fine. Just dont leave it in drive and expect to keep you tranny when towing a hill. I cant begin to count the times i have pulled the manuals out when wheeling, snow/mud. Neither can i count the times i have gone places the manuals couldnt follow either. anyway just my 2 cents. i used to swear by manuals i even have a manual i bought to replace my auto when i bought the truck because supposedly it had a bad transmission according to the previous owner. but it didnt and i fell in love with my auto. wouldnt trade it for anything. __________________ ~Brian GETTING FIXED 89 Ex-Cab 3.4 Conv. T100 Auto Tranny ~Phoenix 94 Ex-Cab 22re 5spd Came with parts truck. Doesnt run yet. 90 4runner 3.0 Auto (Wifes Toy) 92 4runner 3.0 Auto (Currently With Blown Engine) (New 3.4 Swap i think) Last edited by thefallman; 12-11-2006 at 05:22 PM.

12-11-2006, 07:26 PM	#23 (permalink)
trythis Registered User Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Kansas City Posts: 644	I have an auto 22re, and I really like it. I didn't want a manual after driving one for 10 years (s-10) because it wore out my shoulder. I attempted to tow 3000 pounds with a manual once, and the clutch is a limiting factor unless you have a granny (4L) and my manual was 2wd, so no moving up a hill when overloaded. My automatic's torque converter does help a lot with towing and keeping my shoulder from hurting. I also therefore prefer the auto, but there again I haven't driven a 5 speed yota, just my wifes 4 speed 2wd truck. that she doesn't have any more :-( __________________ 89 DLX xtra cab 4x4 22re Auto with 210,000, 225 75R 15, Stock except, "new" 2000 toyota cd/radio, rear speakers hidden in the back seat, SR5 instrument cluster, factory clock. dead aftermarket cruise and some matching blue door pockets! New timing chain with Engine builders front end rebuild kit. Tokico RT trekmaster shocks <-like them. I found the turtle in my yard, after mowing over it and it was fine! Old toyota trucks are like turtles: slow, steady and durable.

12-11-2006, 07:32 PM	#24 (permalink)
CJM Registered User Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Central NJ Posts: 4,561	Thing is after driving a stick shift in my vette for a long time (whichis highly unforgiving in your shifts, its very tight), my old 2wd F250 and various other cars I am sick of shifting and sick of playing with the clutch. Not all auto tranmissions are built the same, yota continually builds better through there contracters vs anyone else. __________________ 96' T100 SR5 4x4, ISR mod, Custom ABS snorkel, KC 57's Hella optilux el cheapo backup lights. Cobra 19III CB, Firestick 4ft antenna, Bilstein shocks. Be polite. Be professional. But, have a plan to kill everyone you meet.

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