How to Operate an Automatic Transmission Car Correctly?
3 Answers
Correct operation method for starting an automatic transmission car: 1. After sitting in the driver's seat, the driver does not need to press the brake pedal, just press the start button once to turn on the ACC indicator, then press it again to initiate the vehicle self-check (for models with one-button start function). 2. Depress the brake pedal and press the start button once more to ignite the engine; release the ignition switch immediately after the engine starts. Holding it down may cause gear grinding between the starter and engine flywheel, shortening the starter's lifespan. 3. Release the foot brake and allow the engine to warm up for 1-3 minutes. The instrument panel has a C-F coolant temperature gauge - when the pointer reaches the middle position, it indicates the coolant has reached 90°C, meaning warm-up is complete. 4. Depress the foot brake again, shift to D gear, and release the parking brake (for electronic parking brakes, simply press the button briefly). Before moving, check the vehicle surroundings carefully. Due to blind spots, use the horn and turn signals to alert nearby vehicles and pedestrians. 5. Gradually release the foot brake while gently applying throttle to complete the starting procedure.
I have always been interested in automotive mechanics, and after years of driving, I have summarized the core principles of correct automatic transmission operation: When starting the car, you must firmly press the brake, shift to P (Park), and then ignite the engine to prevent rolling; when moving forward, press the brake, shift to D (Drive), and gently press the accelerator to start smoothly, avoiding impact on the transmission; while driving, smoothly control the accelerator and brake according to road conditions, such as shifting to S (Sport) mode in advance for steep climbs to increase torque and using engine braking more often when descending; the key to parking is to first shift to N (Neutral), engage the handbrake, then shift to P (Park), and finally turn off the engine to protect the internal locking system; avoid prolonged coasting in neutral to reduce wear and tear, and regularly check the transmission fluid to maintain lubrication. Automatic transmissions come in CVT or traditional designs, but the operational essence is similar—correct methods extend lifespan, reduce repair costs, and make driving more worry-free and safe.
I just got my driver's license and learned that driving an automatic transmission isn't actually complicated: Get in the car, firmly press the brake, shift to P (Park), and start the engine; when ready to drive, press the brake, shift to D (Drive), slowly release the accelerator, and start gently without sudden acceleration; on the road, just manage the accelerator and brake—for reversing, use R (Reverse) while pressing the brake; when parking, make it a habit to press the brake, shift to N (Neutral), engage the handbrake, shift to P (Park), and turn off the engine in sequence to protect the components; beginners should avoid shifting while moving or coasting in neutral—it's dangerous. Practice smooth driving to ensure safety and comfort. Driving an automatic is simple but requires patience—mistakes like slamming the accelerator at startup can cause skidding, and improper parking can damage the transmission.
