Automatic transmissions vary between makes and models, so it is important to study the vehicle's handbook carefully.
Automatic transmissions allow gear changes to be made without the use of a clutch pedal.
In an automatic car, selecting the D-drive position with the gear selector will mean that the vehicle will change gears automatically based on the load placed on the engine while the car is being driven. Alternatively, the driver can use the gear selector to select the gear appropriate to their needs.
The selector can be set in a number of positions, depending on the make and model of car. Most automatic vehicles allow for the vehicle to be held in a low gear as well as having a neutral and park position.
In neutral position there is no connection between the engine and the transmission, and in the park position the whole transmission is locked and the car cannot be moved.
Tips for driving an automatic transmission vehicle:
• Leave the gear selector in drive when doing most general driving. This means the gears will be automatically selected depending on the car's speed and how much pressure you put on the accelerator pedal.
• Listen to the engine: when the car is moving in and out of gears you will hear and feel the change in the car.
• Be careful not to over-rev the car or you could damage your transmission.
Consider using first or second gear when driving up or down steep hills. By selecting a specific gear rather than just putting it in 'drive', the car is held in the gear you select. On long, steep hills a lower gear will help restrain the car, which could tend to 'run away' if left in 'drive'.
Automatic transmissions allow gear changes to be made without the use of a clutch pedal.
In an automatic car, selecting the D-drive position with the gear selector will mean that the vehicle will change gears automatically based on the load placed on the engine while the car is being driven. Alternatively, the driver can use the gear selector to select the gear appropriate to their needs.
The selector can be set in a number of positions, depending on the make and model of car. Most automatic vehicles allow for the vehicle to be held in a low gear as well as having a neutral and park position.
In neutral position there is no connection between the engine and the transmission, and in the park position the whole transmission is locked and the car cannot be moved.
Tips for driving an automatic transmission vehicle:
• Leave the gear selector in drive when doing most general driving. This means the gears will be automatically selected depending on the car's speed and how much pressure you put on the accelerator pedal.
• Listen to the engine: when the car is moving in and out of gears you will hear and feel the change in the car.
• Be careful not to over-rev the car or you could damage your transmission.
Consider using first or second gear when driving up or down steep hills. By selecting a specific gear rather than just putting it in 'drive', the car is held in the gear you select. On long, steep hills a lower gear will help restrain the car, which could tend to 'run away' if left in 'drive'.
