Sentronic transmission: essential information, types, features & technical parameters

Sentronic transmission: essential information, types, features & technical parameters

Sentronic is a marketing name of several automatic transmissions with a function of manual gears shifting installed on Saab cars. They debuted in the early 2000s when the second generation of Saab 9-3 and Saab 9-5 models entered the market.

Operating principle of Sentronic

The main components of this transmission were planetary gears and a torque converter with a lockup function in certain modes. In manual mode a driver could use engine torque with maximum efficiency, which had a positive impact on vehicle dynamics, increasing its performance on slippery surfaces, rough roads, and when driving downhill. To switch to the manual mode, a driver should move the gear lever into the “M” position. Pushing the lever to “+” or “-” was used for up- and downshifting respectively. The paddle shifters were offered as well.

Popular Sentronic transmissions

Gearbox codeManufacturerNumber of gearsMax engine capacity, LMax engine torque, N–mCar layoutProduction startModel applications
FA57 (AF33, AW55-50SN)Aisin53.5330FWD2000Saab 9-3; Saab 9-5
AF40-6 (AWTF-80SC)Aisin62.5450FWD, AWD2001Saab 9-5; Saab 9-3

Common malfunctions of Sentronic transmissions

Malfunctions Transmissions
The solenoids get clogged with wear products of the friction linings in clutch packs. FA57 (AF33, AW55-50SN)
Oil starvation leads to wear of the mechanical transmission elements. FA57 (AF33, AW55-50SN)
The valve body and planetary gear bushing fail. FA57 (AF33, AW55-50SN)
There are jerks after a certain mileage. They indicate the malfunction of the valve body. AF40-6 (AWTF-80SC)
The brake band wears out. AF40-6 (AWTF-80SC)

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