* Check your owner's manual: This is the most reliable method. The manual will clearly state the type of transmission your car has.
* Look at the gear shift: This is less reliable, but can offer a clue.
* Three-speed automatic: Usually has positions for Park (P), Reverse (R), Neutral (N), and Drive (D). Sometimes there's a "Low" (L) range as well, but that's not always present on a three-speed.
* Three-speed manual: Will have three forward gears and reverse. The shifter pattern might be a straight line (1-2-3) or an H-pattern (but the H will be more compact than a four-speed's).
* Four-speed automatic: Will usually have Park (P), Reverse (R), Neutral (N), Drive (D), and possibly a selection for "Low" (L), "2" (second gear only), or "3" (third gear only). Some may also have an "Overdrive" (OD) position which is usually 4th.
* Four-speed manual: Has four forward gears and reverse. The shifter pattern is an H-pattern, and the H will be more spread out than a three-speed manual's.
* Look under the car (with caution!): This is the least recommended method unless you are mechanically inclined and familiar with car safety procedures. You'll need to safely get under the car and locate the transmission. The number of forward gear linkages visible might give you a clue, but this is difficult and not a foolproof method.
* Check the VIN: In some cases, the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can give information about the transmission, but this requires decoding the VIN, which can be complex.
The most reliable way is to check your owner's manual. If you don't have it, you might be able to find a digital copy online by searching for your car's make, model, and year.
