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

 

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

 

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.

 

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.

 

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....

 

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

 

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

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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

 

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.

 

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.

 

Ditto factory clutch took a dump on me a 193K

 

Um......huh?

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

 

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).

 

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.

 

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.