Preparation
1. Read the vehicle’s owner’s manual: Learn the basic functions and operation of the automatic transmission.
2. Practice in a simulator: If you have access to a driving simulator, this will help you get used to the feel of an automatic transmission in a safe environment.
3. Find an instructor: Consider taking lessons from a driving instructor who specializes in teaching automatic driving.
Practical training
1. Position yourself correctly: Make sure your seat is adjusted so that you can easily reach the pedals and have a good view.
2. Understand the gear selector positions: Typically automatic transmissions have the following positions:
– P (Parking): Used for long-term parking.
– R (Reverse): Used to move backward.
– N (Neutral): Switches off the gear, but the engine is running.
– D (Drive): Used to move forward.
– Other gears (eg L, S): Can be used to upshift or downshift for better acceleration or engine braking.
3. Start the engine: Move the gear selector to P (Park) or N (Neutral) and turn on the ignition.
4. Select gear: Move the gear selector to the desired position. It is generally recommended to start with D (drive) for normal driving.
5. Take your foot off the brake: Slowly remove your foot from the brake pedal to allow the vehicle to move.
6. Use the accelerator pedal: Press the accelerator pedal to accelerate. The transmission will automatically shift to higher gears when accelerating.
7. Brake: Press the brake pedal to slow or stop the vehicle. The transmission will automatically downshift to provide engine braking.
8. Park: When stopping for an extended period of time, move the gear selector to P (park) and apply the parking brake.
Tips for driving with an automatic transmission
* Avoid sudden acceleration and braking as this may cause wear to the transmission.
* Do not move the gear selector to P (park) while driving, as this may damage the transmission.
* Use engine braking whenever possible to save fuel and reduce brake wear.
* Maintain your vehicle regularly, including changing the transmission fluid and filter.