Automatic transmissions are the default now - with efficiency approaching or surpassing that of manual transmissions, and automatics with 8 or 10 electronically controlled gears, it’s no surprise they’ve gained so much popularity over the past few decades. But where did it all start? Dave & Wayne Auto Center in Bethlehem, PA has the answers.

The automatic transmission has its roots in the distant past - the first transmission that resembled an automatic transmission in concept was implemented in 1904 before the Model T even hit the market. Unfortunately, it was prone to spontaneously falling apart and didn’t make much sense at the time. In the 1940s, Oldsmobile pioneered the first automatics that evolved into the transmission of today, complete with an entire two gears that shifted based on throttle input, rpm, speed, and so on.

Since then, technology has improved vastly and continues to do so. Modern automatics are truly a marvel of engineering and complexity, allowing for multiple gear ratios that shift nearly instantly and seamlessly. They’ve certainly come a long way since in the past century.

Whether your transmission is brand new or has seen a few decades come and go, our technicians have you covered, no matter your repair or maintenance needs. For the best transmission service shop in Bethlehem, PA, call or stop by Dave & Wayne Auto Center today.



Thank you for visiting Dave & Wayne Auto Center in Bethlehem, PA. You can count on our automotive repair technicians to keep your car, truck, suv, van, or motorcycles on the roads longer and safer.

Service Areas: Bethlehem, PA | Easton, PA | Hellertown, PA | Nazareth, PA | Tatamy, PA | Stockertown, PA | Catasauqua, PA | Bath, PA | Springtown, PA | Phillipsburg, PA | Riegelsville, PA | Northampton, PA | Whitehall, PA

  • Jasper
  • 24-Hour Dropoff
  • 24 Month Warranty
  • AASP Button
  • Air Lift Tow and Haul
  • Fleet Services
  • Handicap Accessible
  • Radiator
  • State Inspection
  • Tech-net
  • Tires
  • WeatherTech
  • Wifi Available

318 W Union Blvd | Bethlehem, PA
(610) 867-8841
(610) 867-1267
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MON-WED | 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
THURSDAYS | 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
FRIDAYS | 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
WEEKENDS | CLOSED