Transmission / Gearshift / Automatic Transmission

Automatic Transmission

~1min read

The Fiat Bravo/Brava is available on request with a fully automatic transmission. The automatic transmission has 4 forward gears, which shift automatically. The shift points of the automatic transmission are controlled electronically-hydraulically. This means the transmission hydraulics are controlled by an electronic control unit (location: under the rear seat), which selects the correct shift points depending on vehicle speed and engine load. The transmission control unit is therefore connected to the engine control unit.

Power is transmitted hydraulically between engine and transmission via a torque converter. In 3rd and 4th gear

at high engine speed, the torque converter is automatically bypassed by a mechanical lock-up clutch to eliminate slip in the converter. This increases the transmission ratio and reduces fuel consumption, especially during highway driving.

Special programs for sporty driving or slippery road surfaces can be selected with the "SPORT" or "ICE" push-button switches on the center console.

When the accelerator pedal is fully depressed, the kickdown switch on the pedal is activated. The transmission then downshifts, and the higher torque can be used for acceleration.

Evaluating the function of the automatic transmission and performing correct fault diagnosis requires experience with automatic transmissions and expensive special equipment. Therefore, only adjusting the shift cable on the transmission and the oil change are described in the "Maintenance" chapter.

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A quick Fiat Bravo quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.