DCT (Dual Clutch Transmissions) automatic gearboxes

Hello

This isn't necessarily about Honda parts, but a general question

Some of the newer cars have DCT gearboxes. Reading about them, they seem to be basically 2 manual gearboxes in one housing. Therefore, the 2 clutches. There is no manual clutch pedal next to the brake pedal.
The gear shifts are automated by actuators and solenoids, etc.
So is essence it is a manual gearbox with automatic gear changes, pretending to be an automatic gearbox.
There is no fluid TC (torque converter).

Have heard they can be a bit erratic in operation at low speeds.

Are these DCT gearboxes:-
1)reliable
2) have any problems
3) How do they compare to a traditional TC auto gearbox.
4) Are the clutches prone to burning out, and how much do the clutches cost to replace?

Your comments/experiences.

Thanks


edit
@BlueVTEC have you repaired any of these DCT boxes?

Huge question!

You best do some more varied research but basically yes they are two gearboxes in one where there are two input shafts, one inside the other, with a clutch pack each and the gears themselves on two main shafts, nominally 1,3,5 on one shaft and 2,4,6 on the other.

They should be more efficient due to both the direct drive and the computer which keeps the engine in the most efficient rev range.

They have been around for many years and have advanced greatly during this time so I would say they are very reliable units these days.

Hi John, I agree with Graham that twin clutch gearbox's have improved over the years.

My first 60 reg VW Golf 1.4 DSG (direct shift gearbox) 7 speed used to shudder a little when taking off from standstill but a simple software update cured the problem
I then replaced that car with another Golf DSG (63 reg) which behaved impeccably over 3 years of ownership.

In answer to your questions :

1 yes IMO they are now reliable

2 they can be unreliable if you live in a Country that suffers from high humidity but are trouble free in a climate such as ours.

3 They are superior to the old school torque convertor in every way e.g. they're more efficient and a lot faster.

4 The early 7 speed dry clutch models used to be prone to clutch pack burnout but thankfully this is no longer the case.

If you send me an email via the private message system I can attach workshop guides.

Good luck with your research

I was considering a Hyundai DCT, but not sure about it now.