What is the correct foot technique when driving an automatic transmission car?
4 Answers
The correct foot technique when driving an automatic transmission car is: the right foot should be responsible for controlling the accelerator and also stepping on the brake. The correct steps for starting an automatic transmission car are: 1. After the driver sits in the driver's seat, press the start button directly; 2. Step on the brake and press the start button to ignite and start the engine; 3. Release the foot brake and let the car warm up in place; 4. Step on the brake again and shift to D gear; 5. Release the handbrake and slowly release the foot brake to start. The gears of an automatic transmission are: 1. P gear is the parking gear; 2. R gear is the reverse gear; 3. N gear is the neutral gear; 4. D gear is the drive gear; 5. S gear is the sport mode; 6. L gear is the low-speed gear.
I've always believed that foot operation safety is the most important aspect of driving, especially in automatic transmission vehicles, as manual shifting is too cumbersome. The key is to use only the right foot to control the brake and accelerator, with the left foot completely resting on the footrest or floor. When starting or accelerating, gently press the accelerator with the right foot, maintaining a relaxed posture; when encountering a red light or emergency, immediately move the foot to the brake to avoid missteps or accidents. On highways, I don't keep my foot suspended but place it near the accelerator, ready to act at any moment. In traffic jams, I shift to P mode or engage the auto-hold function to give my foot a complete rest. After developing this habit, I feel more stable while driving, and there's no risk of cramps due to fatigue, significantly improving safety. Remember, never follow others in using the left foot to assist—it only increases risks. Beginners should practice in open areas for a few weeks to solidify this muscle memory.
When I first started learning to drive, I kept moving my feet around, like I was driving a manual transmission, with my left foot trying to press the brake, which made the car shake. The instructor said that with an automatic transmission, only the right foot should be used, and the left foot shouldn’t be involved at all. Now when I drive, I keep my right foot relaxed on the accelerator, and as soon as the brake light comes on, I switch my foot over. Driving on city roads is simple in terms of foot movement: lightly press the accelerator to speed up, and lift off to slow down; when stopping at a light, press the brake with the right foot or shift to neutral to rest. With more practice, this method becomes very easy to adapt to and reduces the chaos. In fact, automatic transmission cars are designed to be hassle-free—don’t overcomplicate things. This way of operating is safe and effortless, making me feel confident every time I drive, especially on long trips where my legs don’t get tired, avoiding the mistakes of the beginner phase.
When driving, I usually keep my right foot on the accelerator pedal, applying just a light touch without much force. When braking, I simply move my foot to the left pedal. During highway cruising or smooth road conditions, I rest my foot flat without pressing anything. At red lights or temporary stops, I shift to P mode to relax my foot or keep it on the brake. This method saves energy and keeps me fresh—even after driving hundreds of kilometers, my legs don’t get sore. Since automatic transmissions simplify operations, there’s no need to complicate things with the left foot—keeping it simple is the most comfortable way.
