Using an automatic transmission is designed to be simple, allowing the vehicle to manage gear shifts for you.
Getting Started with an Automatic
Changing gears in an automatic vehicle is easy. Unlike a manual transmission where you use a clutch and select gears yourself, an automatic car handles most of this process internally.
Based on the provided information:
- Put the car into "Drive" and use the gas pedal to go. This is the fundamental step for normal forward movement.
- The car will automatically shift gears as you accelerate. You don't need to manually change gears for regular driving.
Common Automatic Shifter Positions
Automatic transmissions typically have several key positions you'll use:
- P (Park): Use this when the vehicle is stopped, and you are exiting or parking for an extended period. It locks the transmission, preventing the car from rolling. Always engage the parking brake as well.
- R (Reverse): Use this to move the vehicle backward.
- N (Neutral): This disengages the transmission, allowing the wheels to spin freely. Use this if you need to tow the vehicle or push it a short distance (though check your owner's manual). Do not use this while driving.
- D (Drive): This is the primary position for moving forward. Once in Drive, the transmission automatically selects the appropriate gear based on speed and engine load.
Many automatic cars also have other positions or modes, such as:
- L (Low) or 1, 2, 3: These limit the transmission to lower gears, useful for controlling speed on steep descents or providing more power at low speeds.
- S (Sport): This mode typically alters shift points for more aggressive acceleration and response.
Manual Shifting Option
While automatic transmissions shift gears for you, if you want to shift gears manually, most cars have a "+" and "-" sign on the gear shifter. This feature, often called "manual mode" or "tiptronic," allows the driver to select gears sequentially using the shifter itself or sometimes paddles behind the steering wheel. You press "+" to upshift and "-" to downshift.
Driving an Automatic Car
- Start the Engine: Ensure the shifter is in Park (P) or Neutral (N) and press the brake pedal before turning the key or pushing the start button.
- Select Your Direction: With your foot still on the brake, move the shifter to Reverse (R) for backing up or Drive (D) for moving forward.
- Release Brake and Accelerate: Slowly release the brake pedal. The car will often begin to creep forward or backward. Gently press the gas pedal to accelerate. The transmission will automatically shift gears as you gain speed.
- Braking: To slow down or stop, simply press the brake pedal.
- Parking: Once stopped, keep your foot on the brake, move the shifter to Park (P), engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine.
Using an automatic transmission simplifies driving significantly, particularly in stop-and-go traffic, by removing the need for manual gear selection and clutch operation.
