Happy Friday, Chicago.

Do you know what kind of transmission your car has? I didn’t, but after reading Ed Sokalski’s op-ed warning about the long-term durability of CVT (continuously variable transmission), I did a quick search and was relieved to find I drive a vehicle with a good old-fashioned automatic transmission. Sokalski argues that CVTs, which became common around 2010, may wear out faster than traditional automatics. Or, as he puts it, “After 10 or 15 years these CVT cars may become worthless boat anchors.” Happy Googling, reader.

Also in the opinion section, Jim Nowlan calls for a new generation of young leaders to help revitalize Illinois, and Glenn Eden offers a tribute to the Rev. Jesse Jackson. “In the end, the true anatomy of an icon isn’t found in their perfection, but in the enduring strength of the doors they left open for the rest of us to walk through,” Eden writes.

Today, the editorial board tackles two issues plaguing the city and the people who live — and drive — here: Chicago’s latest credit downgrade and a judge’s ruling that the city overcharged millions of drivers for parking tickets.

Don’t forget to check out reader letters, including a note from Republican gubernatorial candidate James Mendrick.

— Hilary Gowins, editorial board member

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