How to Operate an Automatic Transmission Car?

2 Answers
CalebLynn
07/24/25 5:21am
Here is the correct operation method for a CVT automatic transmission: 1. Starting the engine: First, turn on the power (without starting the engine), press the brake, and shift gears. Instead of directly shifting to D (Drive), shift to N (Neutral) first, then start the engine. After that, shift from N to D, release the handbrake, lift the foot brake, and start moving. 2. Waiting at a red light or short-term parking: The correct method is to engage the handbrake and shift to N, not P (Park). Avoid keeping the gear in D while pressing the brake for a long time (more than 30 seconds). P has a locking mechanism; shifting to P without engaging the handbrake can cause wear on the mechanism. Keeping the gear in D while the vehicle is stationary can wear out the transmission. 3. Accelerating: Press the accelerator. When the RPM rises to the shifting range (approximately between 2000~2500 RPM), lightly release the accelerator (the automatic transmission will issue an upshift command), then press the accelerator again. This will make the upshift smooth; shift up and speed up gradually. If you keep pressing the accelerator hard, the transmission will delay the shifting timing and only upshift when the RPM exceeds 3000. If you press the accelerator fully, the engine RPM will reach the redline before upshifting. 4. Overtaking: First, release the accelerator, then press it down firmly. The transmission will automatically downshift to meet the power demand. After completing the overtaking, release the accelerator, and the gear will return to the appropriate gear for the current speed, which can be controlled solely with the accelerator. If you need to accelerate quickly, you can shift to S (Sport) mode to achieve rapid acceleration. 6. Parking operation: When the car is in the parking position, press the brake, engage the handbrake, shift to P, gently lift the foot brake, and remove the key.
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SanLaila
08/11/25 1:01am
When I was learning to drive an automatic transmission car, I found it quite simple. After getting in the car, first fasten the seat belt, press the brake pedal to start the engine, then turn the key or press the start button until the dashboard lights up. Next, shift from P (Park) to D (Drive) – this is the key to driving; release the brake and the car will start moving slowly. Gently press the accelerator to speed up, but don’t press too hard to avoid sudden jerks. When braking, slow down in advance and always keep your foot on the brake pedal ready to prevent accidents. When parking, press the brake until the car comes to a complete stop, then shift back to P (Park) and turn off the engine. Important reminder: Do not shift to N (Neutral) while driving to coast, as it can damage the transmission; make it a habit to check the handbrake regularly. When parking on a slope, engage the handbrake first before shifting to P (Park). These small details will help you drive more safely and with peace of mind.
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