Driving an automatic car is often seen as more convenient and less complex than driving a manual transmission vehicle. The ease of not having to manually shift gears makes automatic cars a popular choice for many drivers, especially in urban areas with heavy traffic.
However, despite their user-friendly nature, automatic cars still require proper handling and care to ensure optimal performance and longevity. There are certain habits and practices that drivers should avoid to prevent unnecessary wear and tear on the vehicle. Understanding these practices can help you maintain your car’s health and improve your driving experience.
In this guide, we will explore seven things you should avoid doing while driving an automatic car. Each point will provide detailed explanations of why these actions are detrimental and offer tips on how to drive more efficiently and safely. Whether you are a seasoned driver or new to automatic transmissions, these tips will help you get the most out of your vehicle while avoiding common pitfalls.
1. Avoid Shifting Gears While Moving
One of the most critical things to avoid while driving an automatic car is shifting gears while the vehicle is still moving. Automatic transmissions are designed to shift gears automatically based on the car’s speed and driving conditions. Manually shifting the gear lever to “Park,” “Reverse,” or “Neutral” while the car is in motion can cause significant damage to the transmission.
This practice can lead to wear and tear on the transmission’s internal components, resulting in costly repairs. For example, shifting to “Reverse” while moving forward can cause the gears to grind against each other, potentially leading to a complete transmission failure.
To avoid this, always come to a complete stop before shifting gears. When you need to switch between “Drive” and “Reverse” or “Park,” ensure that the car is at a standstill. Additionally, avoid using the “Neutral” gear while coasting, as this can reduce your control over the vehicle and increase the risk of accidents. By following these guidelines, you can protect your transmission and ensure smooth and safe driving.
Shifting gears only when the car is stationary helps prevent unnecessary strain on the transmission, reduces the risk of mechanical failure, and extends the life of your vehicle. Proper gear shifting is essential for maintaining the health and performance of your automatic car, providing a safer and more enjoyable driving experience.
2. Avoid Overloading the Vehicle
Overloading your vehicle can have a detrimental impact on its performance and longevity. Automatic transmissions are designed to handle a specific load capacity, and exceeding this limit can strain the transmission and other critical components of your car. Overloading can lead to overheating, increased wear and tear, and reduced fuel efficiency. Additionally, an overloaded vehicle may have difficulty accelerating, braking, and maintaining stability, which can compromise your safety on the road.
To avoid overloading, always adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended load capacity, which can be found in your vehicle’s manual. Consider the combined weight of passengers, cargo, and any additional equipment when calculating the total load. Distributing the weight evenly within the vehicle can also help prevent excessive stress on any single component.
By avoiding overloading, you can ensure that your automatic transmission operates efficiently and extend the lifespan of your vehicle. Regularly review your vehicle’s load capacity and be mindful of the weight you carry to maintain optimal performance and safety.
Overloading not only affects the transmission but can also lead to increased wear on the suspension, brakes, and tires, further reducing the lifespan of these components. By maintaining a proper load, you contribute to the health of your vehicle and enjoy a smoother, safer driving experience.
3. Avoid Using Two Feet While Driving
Using two feet while driving an automatic car is a common mistake that can lead to dangerous situations and unnecessary wear on the vehicle. In an automatic car, the right foot should be used for both the accelerator and the brake pedal. Using the left foot for the brake while the right foot controls the accelerator can cause confusion and increase the risk of pressing both pedals simultaneously.
This can lead to unintentional acceleration or braking, resulting in a loss of control over the vehicle. Additionally, applying both pedals at the same time can put excessive strain on the transmission and brake system, causing premature wear and potential damage.
To avoid these issues, always use your right foot to control both pedals. This practice ensures smoother and safer driving, as it reduces the chances of accidental acceleration or braking.
It also helps maintain the integrity of your vehicle’s transmission and braking system, preventing unnecessary wear and tear. Developing good driving habits, such as using one foot for both pedals, can enhance your driving experience and improve safety on the road.
Furthermore, driving with one foot reduces the cognitive load, making it easier to react appropriately in emergencies. By adopting this practice, you can ensure better control of your vehicle and contribute to a safer driving environment for yourself and others.
4. Avoid Coasting in Neutral
Coasting in neutral is a habit that many drivers believe can save fuel, but it can be harmful to your automatic transmission and reduce your control over the vehicle. When you shift to neutral while driving, you disengage the engine from the wheels, which means you lose engine braking and have to rely solely on the brakes to slow down. This can lead to increased wear on the brake system and reduce its effectiveness over time.
Additionally, coasting in neutral can make it more challenging to respond quickly to emergencies, as you need to shift back into gear before accelerating. Modern automatic transmissions are designed to optimize fuel efficiency while driving in gear, so coasting in neutral provides little to no benefit in terms of fuel savings.
Instead, it compromises your ability to control the vehicle and increases wear on critical components. To drive more safely and efficiently, always keep your car in gear and allow the transmission to manage the power delivery. This practice ensures better control, improved safety, and reduced wear on your vehicle.
By avoiding coasting in neutral, you can also maintain a more stable and predictable driving experience, which is crucial for going through traffic and responding to sudden changes on the road. keeping your car in gear enhances fuel efficiency, preserves brake life, and promotes safer driving habits.
5. Avoid Ignoring Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid is essential for the proper functioning of an automatic transmission, as it lubricates the moving parts, reduces friction, and helps regulate temperature. Ignoring the transmission fluid can lead to various problems, including overheating, increased wear, and eventual transmission failure. Symptoms of low or degraded transmission fluid include slipping gears, delayed shifting, and unusual noises while driving.
To avoid these issues, regularly check the transmission fluid level and condition according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule. Use the dipstick (if your car has one) to check the fluid level, and ensure it is within the recommended range. The fluid should be a bright red color and free of debris. If the fluid appears dark or has a burnt smell, it may be time for a replacement.
Refer to your vehicle’s manual for the appropriate type of transmission fluid and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for fluid change intervals. Regular maintenance of the transmission fluid helps ensure the smooth and efficient operation of your automatic transmission, extending its lifespan and preventing costly repairs.
Keeping the transmission fluid at optimal levels and conditions not only protects the transmission but also enhances the driving experience by providing smooth and responsive gear changes. By prioritizing transmission fluid maintenance, you can prevent major issues and enjoy a reliable, well-functioning vehicle.
6. Avoid Resting Your Hand on the Gear Lever
Resting your hand on the gear lever while driving is a common habit that can cause damage to your automatic transmission. While it may seem harmless, applying constant pressure on the gear lever can lead to premature wear on the transmission’s internal components.
The gear selector mechanism is designed to be engaged and disengaged as needed, and resting your hand on the lever can cause unnecessary strain on these parts. Over time, this can lead to increased friction, wear, and potential damage to the transmission.
To avoid this issue, always keep both hands on the steering wheel while driving, except when actively shifting gears. This practice not only prevents unnecessary wear on the transmission but also improves your control over the vehicle and enhances safety.
By developing the habit of keeping your hands on the steering wheel, you can maintain proper driving posture, reduce distractions, and ensure the longevity of your automatic transmission. Furthermore, keeping both hands on the wheel allows for better handling and quicker response times in emergencies. Adopting this practice contributes to safer driving habits and preserves the integrity of your vehicle’s transmission system.
7. Avoid Using the Parking Brake Infrequently
Using the parking brake infrequently can lead to problems with your vehicle’s braking system and transmission. The parking brake, also known as the handbrake or emergency brake, is designed to hold the car stationary when parked, especially on inclines. Relying solely on the transmission’s “Park” setting can cause unnecessary strain on the transmission’s parking pawl, a small pin that locks the transmission in place.
Over time, this can lead to wear and potential failure of the parking pawl. To avoid this, always use the parking brake when parking your vehicle, regardless of the terrain. Engaging the parking brake takes the pressure off the transmission and ensures that the car remains securely in place.
Additionally, regularly using the parking brake helps keep its components in good working condition, preventing them from seizing or becoming less effective over time. By incorporating the use of the parking brake into your routine, you can protect your automatic transmission, enhance safety, and ensure the longevity of your vehicle’s braking system.
Regular use of the parking brake also provides an extra layer of security, reducing the risk of the vehicle rolling away if the transmission fails. Using the parking brake consistently is a simple yet effective practice that promotes vehicle safety and preserves the health of your transmission and braking system.
