Gone are the days when manual and automatic were the only transmission choices available in the market.
Today, you’ll find vehicles with continuous variable transmissions (CVTs), as well as torque converter gearboxes, which are different from conventional transmissions.
In this article, we’ll be talking about the DSG transmission, what it means, and why it makes a great option for drivers all around.
“DSG” stands for “direct-shift gearbox.” Also known as a dual-clutch gearbox, this type of transmission has two gearboxes and clutches and therefore connected to two driveshafts.
Various automakers have different versions of the DSG transmission. For Volkswagen, this is the abbreviation for “Direkt-Schalt-Getriebe.”
For Porsche, a DSG transmission is referred to as “PDK” or “Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe,” which translates to “Porsche Dual-Clutch Gearbox.”
A DSG transmission combines the best attributes of an automatic and manual minus the third pedal.
DSG transmissions are often likened to torque converter gearboxes and continuously variable transmissions. While these three work differently, they share the same principle, which is to shift gears automatically without the need for a clutch pedal.
A DSG transmission can run in full or semi-automatic mode. During full-automatic mode, the computer solely decides when and how to shift. In semi-automatic mode, the driver can use the gearshift lever or steering wheel-mounted paddles to select a gear.
A DSG transmission uses a manual-type transmission and two clutches that engage the main input or counter shaft. This is a completely different setup from the conventional automatic transmission, which uses a torque converter and planetary gear sets.
By using a manual-type transmission and dual clutch packs, a DSG transmission is able to do the following:
A dual-shift gearbox has two dry, concentrically mounted clutches. The larger clutch drives the odd-numbered gears while the smaller clutch drives the even-numbered ones.
In this setup, gear shifts occur without disrupting the torque transfer from the engine. A DSG transmission applies torque to one clutch while disconnecting the other clutch. This is referred to as “synchronous” operation when applied to an automatic transmission of any kind.
The transmission control module (TCM) ensures that as one clutch releases, the next clutch engages seamlessly, avoiding binding or overspeed with a smooth overlap in timing between gear shifts.
As a result, shifts occur at a rapid motion and show no signs of delay, unlike conventional automatic transmissions.
A DSG transmission uses either one of two types of clutches. Low-powered, small front-wheel drive vehicles typically use dual dry clutches, while high-powered vehicles use dual wet clutches.
Most DSG vehicles can take power to the next level with their “sport” and “manual” modes. These modes tend to be a bit more aggressive when it comes to speed, so you can expect fuel economy to be compromised.
Other perks of sport and manual modes include faster shifting, longer hold for gear shifts, engine braking by downshifting, and better response for sporty driving.
A DSG transmission gives you all the benefits of a manual and automatic gearbox without the hassle of operating a third pedal. Meanwhile, knowing how to drive a stick is the mark of a true driver (or so they say).
So which one is best for you?
The truth is that manual vehicles aren’t for everyone, and the same goes for DSGs. Picking the right setup will ultimately depend on your preferences as a driver.
Operating a manual vehicle is undoubtedly a more involved experience for drivers. Out of all the transmission types, a manual is the most dependent on driver input. In other words, you’re in total control when you’re driving a stick.
Controlling the gears from the get-go is a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it’s a bit more complicated than driving an automatic.
Gear selection, downshifting, and controlling the working level of the clutch are some of the skills you need to properly handle the stick.
As for DSGs, there’s zero loss of acceleration when shifting between gears. Also, precise downshifts are a huge advantage on the racetrack.
With a dual-shift gearbox, you can enjoy all the benefits of an automatic and manual, and it’s generally faster at shifting gears than an actual human.
However, DSGs aren’t nearly as fun as manual transmissions due to the lack of engagement.
A DSG transmission comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
As convenient as they are, DSG transmissions don’t come without faults. Here are some of the most common problems with DSG transmissions.
Both clutches of a DSG must work to ensure a smooth operation. If either one fails, you’ll need to replace it with a new one.
Also, clutch packs on a DSG are quite complicated, and fitting them might require special skills and tools to ensure proper installation. This also means you’ll need to spend a bit more on labor, given the gearbox’s complexity.
If a vehicle has dual wet clutches, contaminated oil can also result in a damaged or inoperative clutch, so regular service for clutch oil is highly recommended.
Failure to engage gears after a full stop, slow or hard shifting, and RPM-dependent vibration are common indicators of a damaged flywheel. In most cases, this problem arises in vehicles that have clocked in over 100,000 miles.
Failure to replace the damaged component can eventually damage the bell housing and other parts of the transmission.
Once the flywheel has been replaced, it’s recommended to recalibrate the clutches to optimize gearbox performance.
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.