Should You Keep Pressing the Brake When Decelerating an Automatic Transmission Car?

[DelLeilani]

Decelerating an automatic transmission car requires pressing the brake. Below is relevant information about braking: 1. Brake Pad Replacement Cycle: Brake pads should be replaced every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers. When the vehicle exceeds 30,000 kilometers in usage, regularly inspect the brake pads to check their actual thickness and ensure immediate replacement once they reach their limit. Brake pads are one of the critical components of a vehicle's braking system. The pressure from the braking system is transmitted through the piston caliper to the brake pads, and the braking force generated by the friction between the brake pads and the brake disc slows down or stops the vehicle. 2. Correct Braking Technique: Place the front part of your right foot on the center of the brake pedal, then press or release the pedal. When pressing the brake pedal, never look at the pedal; it must be a conditioned reflex to operate quickly. When driving on a flat road, before stopping, predictively and timely lift the throttle, shift into neutral, and use the rolling friction of the tires and air resistance to overcome the car's inertia.

[AlexLee]

When driving an automatic transmission car, you really don't need to keep pressing the brake pedal to slow down. From my years of driving experience, simply releasing the accelerator pedal often initiates deceleration, which is called engine braking. I frequently use this technique during long-distance trips, especially on steep downhill highway sections, as it effectively reduces brake pad wear and fuel consumption. Of course, in emergency situations or when needing to stop quickly, you should definitely press the brake decisively. But during normal urban driving or at low speeds, developing the habit of using the accelerator to control speed is not only effortless and safe, but also extends vehicle lifespan. Remember, don't always rely on brakes - driving becomes more relaxed this way.

[LaZoey]

As a new driver with limited experience, I initially thought that slowing down required constant braking, but later realized how smart automatic transmissions are! Releasing the accelerator naturally reduces speed by utilizing engine braking. For example, when approaching a red light, I stop pressing the accelerator, and the car slows down on its own. This method saves fuel and protects the braking system, avoiding the risk of rear-end collisions caused by sudden braking. On slippery roads or steep slopes, combining light braking is more reliable, and it becomes second nature after a few practices. Developing this habit benefits both driving safety and vehicle maintenance—I highly recommend using engine braking more often.

[McLydia]

When driving an automatic transmission, you don't necessarily have to keep pressing the brake to slow down. For tasks like picking up and dropping off family members at school, I often use engine braking. At traffic lights, I release the accelerator early to let the car slow down on its own, which reduces wear on the brake pads and makes them last longer. In city driving, just combine it with gentle braking—no need to stomp on the brakes in a panic. This technique is very practical and also makes passengers feel smooth and comfortable. It's easy to try in traffic jams or downhill sections, protecting your car while saving money.