How to use automatic transmission modes correctly. Driving an automatic for beginners: general rules

27.09.2019

The use of various technologies of modern automotive industry allows us to drive machines much more comfortably. With the help of sensors, sensors and sensitive devices, we can completely forget about the complexities of driving a car, but only if the budget allows us to buy a car equipped with all these devices. For a regular budget, one common comfort feature is available today - an automatic transmission. This is an important plus for any car and really getting the desired comfort.

But driving a car with automatic transmission should be with certain features. An automatic transmission is a fairly gentle unit in your car, so it requires fairly gentle operation. Otherwise, you will often have to visit service stations and order professional repair services. It is cheaper and easier to learn how to properly manage an automatic transmission and forget about problems with the unit.

The main mistakes in the management of any type of automatic transmission

Automatic transmission requires certain driving skills. If we are talking about a traditional automatic transmission, you need to start more smoothly and give the car more time to accelerate. In the case of DSG or PowerShift robotic nodes, on the contrary, it is better to start aggressively, and when the desired speed is reached, reduce your ardor to dynamics.

The issue of proper operation of an automatic transmission is a rather important point, not only because of changes in fuel consumption readings. In this case, it is necessary to maintain the performance of the box and avoid costly repairs. It is important to understand that it is the gearbox that is the intermediary between your actions and the power unit. The general rules for the operation of most machines are as follows:

it is better to give preference to a smooth ride, sparing all the delicate components of the gearbox assembly;
acceleration can be intense, but should not be abrupt, especially when overtaking and sudden acceleration;
a trip along a mountain road should be careful, because it is impossible to brake with an engine on an automatic transmission;
you can tow the machine, but you should follow the manufacturer's special recommendations;
it is impossible to start a car on an automatic transmission from a pusher, this can only break the box;
an untimely oil change in the box can be a problem that will necessitate a major overhaul.

It is also worth remembering that the repair of any machine is very expensive, therefore it is better to maintain the equipment well and avoid trouble with repairs. If you have a car with a continuously variable variator at your disposal, remember that such boxes are actually beyond repair. Often, after serious breakdowns, they are completely replaced.

Also, modern robotic boxes, which are present in the arsenal of every major global brand, are very poorly adapted to repair. Therefore, if there are first problems, you should immediately contact the service center and fix the problems. A serious breakdown can necessitate a very costly replacement of the unit.

Automatic transmission control algorithm

Driving a car with automatic transmission may seem easy enough, but many drivers make a lot of annoying mistakes that lead to trouble. For example, we can recall the problem of many drivers who have switched from manual to automatic. This is a constant switching off of the transmission at a traffic light and its inclusion at a permissive signal.

Turning off the gear on the machine, if you are going to move in a few seconds, is not worth it. This will only increase the wear of the unit. Imagine how much longer the equipment will last, which is not forced to turn off at every traffic light. To properly control the machine on the machine, use the following algorithm of actions:

get in the car, get ready for the trip, make sure that the parking brake is in the active position;
move the gearbox selector to position P (most likely, it is already in this position);
press the brake, in case you forgot to turn on the handbrake, turn on the ignition of the car and, after loading the on-board computer, start the car;
let all units and technical fluids warm up well - one or two minutes is often enough for this;
move the gearbox selector to position D or R - depending on the direction of your movement (forward or backward);
release the parking brake and gently release the brake pedal under your right foot;
do not use your left foot to drive an automatic transmission vehicle;
after fully releasing the brake pedal, the car will move, it can be controlled by gas injection or braking;
when parking the car, stop, hold the brake pedal with your foot, shift the gearshift lever to position P and turn off the car by applying the handbrake.

As you move, switching off and on the transfer is not necessary. This will only allow you to wear out the parts of the gearbox faster and soon end up in the repair shop with the next problems. So it's better to use the proven simple way to drive a car on the machine. And the rest of the understanding will come to you as soon as your own experience is enough.

Also remember that each car has its own type of automatic transmission. When changing the car, it is worth getting used to the proposed features of the car and getting more information about the behavior of the car on the road. Such data will help you avoid unpleasant situations while driving. You also need to get used to the car when changing the car on the mechanics to a car with automatic transmission. We do not recommend teaching your relatives how to drive automatically in their car, as the hero of the following video does:

Summing up

Driving an automatic car is much easier than driving a car with a manual transmission. You do not need to think about the number of revolutions, gear ratio and normal driving mode. All that is required of the driver is to press the gas or brake pedal to the extent that you want to get a response. Getting used to this feature of the trip is very simple, but it gives a feeling of complete freedom.

Do not forget that the working conditions of quite expensive and delicate equipment depend on your pressing the pedals and levers. It should always be remembered that the quality work of the car is associated with proper operation. If you have experience with problematic automatic transmission operation, share it in the comments.

Have you purchased a car with an automatic transmission? You are probably wondering how to properly use such a car, because proper operation will extend the life of the automatic transmission and help you avoid unnecessary breakdowns. Automatic transmission is a complex and expensive mechanism, let's look at how to use it correctly.

Start of movement

Any trip begins with the factory and warming up the engine. Do not rush to start moving right away. If the temperature is positive outside, it is enough to wait a minute or two for the oil to be distributed over the box and it to enter the operating mode. Remember, the colder it is outside, the more time it will take to warm up, so in cold weather it will not be superfluous to stand with the engine running for 10 minutes or more. In addition, it will also be a plus for the car engine.

Reminder! The engine can only be started in positions "P" or "N". Moreover, it is desirable in the position "P". If your car does not start, check that the gear shift lever is set to one of these two positions.

So, you have warmed up the car, now you can start driving. Switch the gear lever from the position "P" in one of the positions for movement and be sure to wait for the easy dot! The box takes some time to switch modes (usually about 1 second), and if you hit the gas hard before this point, it can cause damage.

Pedals

Driving a car with an automatic transmission is carried out exclusively with one foot! The second should be on a special stand, which is located on the left. Driving a car with two feet is extremely dangerous. For example, when you have one foot on the brake and the other on the gas, there is a sudden obstacle ahead. You apply the brake sharply, your body drags forward by inertia and the gas is simultaneously pressed, you can forget about effective braking. It is quite possible in this case to speed up even more.

Automatic transmission operating modes

Let's look at the automatic transmission modes.

P

parking. In this mode, the shaft and, accordingly, the drive wheels are blocked. Use this mode for long stops or when you leave the vehicle. You can switch to this mode only after a complete (!) stop of the car.

Reminder! To move the gear lever out of position "P" to another position, you must press the brake pedal!

Attention! In no case do not turn on this mode while the car is moving! This is fraught with breakage of the box!

If you park the car on a relatively flat surface, then there is no need to use the handbrake. If the slope is steep enough, then to reduce the load on the elements of the parking mechanism, it is best to proceed according to the following scheme:

staging

while holding the brake, pull the handbrake,
release the brake, the car will most likely move a little,
switch box to position "P",

Withdrawal

first move the gearshift lever to the drive mode,
then, while holding the brake, remove the handbrake

R

Reverse. This mode is used for driving in reverse. You can switch to this mode only after the car is completely stopped and the brake pedal is depressed.

Attention! Switching the gearbox to this mode while moving forward will result in failure of the gearbox and other elements of the transmission and engine!

N

Many people think that when coasting downhill, you can save some fuel by switching the box to this mode, but this is not so, because then you still have to switch to the mode D, which will give an additional load on the box.

Also, when driving an automatic, it does not make sense to move the lever to the neutral position during short stops, for example, at traffic lights.

D

Basic driving mode. Most often, this mode is used to move forward. On an automatic transmission, this mode is suitable for driving at any speed available to the car, from "0" to maximum.

2

Only the first 2 gears. This mode is recommended when driving on winding mountain roads or when towing a trailer or other vehicle. Do not switch to this mode if the vehicle speed exceeds 80 km/h.

L

Only first gear. This mode is used for particularly difficult road conditions, such as off-road driving. Do not switch to this mode if the vehicle speed exceeds 15 km/h.

Additional modes of automatic transmission

On cars with automatic transmission, there are additional controls, let's look at them:

OverDrive (O/D)

This button is found on gearboxes that have more than three gears. The button for enabling this mode is usually located on the box lever. If the button "O/D" recessed, fourth gear is allowed. If you press it, then the light on the instrument panel will light up. "O/D OFF", which will mean that you have activated this mode.

Designed for overtaking other cars or other occasions when you need fast acceleration. Its action lies in the fact that it does not allow the box to switch above third gear, which ensures rapid acceleration.

Sometimes mode "O/D OFF" used for long climbs, when the engine begins to lack traction and the box begins to "rush" between third and fourth gear.

kickdown

This mode is activated by sharp pressing the gas pedal. In this case, the box automatically shifts down one or two gears, which provides a sharp acceleration. Upshifting in this mode occurs at significantly higher engine speeds than normal acceleration. It is not recommended to use this mode for sharp acceleration "from a standstill", as this puts a very large load on the gearbox mechanism. It is better to first let the car accelerate to at least 20 km / h, and then you can “gas to the floor”.

PWR/SPORT

This is a program mode that is designed for active driving. Shifting occurs at a higher RPM for faster acceleration. However, fuel consumption in this mode is maximum.

SNOW

This is a program mode that is designed for driving in winter. In this mode, the first gear is not included, acceleration starts immediately from the second gear, which reduces the likelihood of slipping of the drive wheels. Also in this mode, the shifting occurs at a lower speed, which makes the car seem to be "sluggish", but provides more safety on snow. Some people use this mode in the summer as well, as fuel consumption in this mode is minimal. However, I would not advise doing this, since the first gear is disabled in this mode, and therefore all loads fall on the torque converter, which is actively heated. In winter, this is normal for him, and in summer it can lead to overheating and possible damage to the automatic transmission.

Engine braking in automatic transmission

It turns out that on automatic transmissions, as well as on manual ones, you can use engine braking.

Driving on steep slopes

If you have a button "O/D" you can press it, this will force the gearbox to shift into third gear and cause gentle engine braking and prevent the car from accelerating higher 80 km/h. Do not use this feature at speeds over 120 km/h.

Driving on steep slopes

Move the lever to position "2" . This will prevent your car from accelerating higher. 40-60 km/h.

Off-road driving

If you are going off-road with very steep ascents and descents, move the gearbox to the "L", this will prevent the car from accelerating higher on the slopes 10-20 km/h, and on the slopes will allow you to use the maximum torque from the engine.

Towing a car with automatic transmission

Many are interested in whether it is possible to tow a car with automatic transmission?

It is possible, but only when running engine (!) and neutral box "N", at speeds up to 50 km / h and at a distance of not more than 50 km. If your car does not start, it will be cheaper to use a tow truck than to pay for expensive gearbox repairs later.

If you are towing, then you should remember the following rules:

such towing is generally undesirable and should only be used if there are no alternatives,
the towed vehicle must be lighter or of the same mass as the towing vehicle,
can only be towed in box positions "2" or "L" and at speeds up to 40 km/h,
The automatic machine transfers not heavy trailers without problems.

Starting a car with automatic transmission from a "tug"

There is no consensus here. Some say that this is not possible, and moreover, it is dangerous for the automatic transmission. In many ways, they are right - with the wrong actions, you have every chance of getting into an expensive box repair. In addition, it is much more difficult than on the mechanics.

If you are completely confident in your actions and you have no other options (at least throw wires or rearrange the battery), I will give detailed instructions for starting a car with an automatic gearbox from a tow, found on the Internet:

"There is an opinion that a car with an automatic transmission cannot be started from a "tug". This is not so. Set the lever to position N, turn on the ignition. In cold weather, press the gas pedal once to enrich the mixture, and start moving in tow. After reaching a speed of 30 km / h for a cold transmission and 50 km / h for a warm one, drive at this pace for at least 2 minutes to create the necessary oil pressure in the transmission, then move the lever to position 2 and after the engine starts to rotate, press the gas pedal As soon as the engine starts, return the lever to "neutral". If the engine does not start after a few seconds, do not persist - move the lever back to "neutral", otherwise you will overheat the box. car in "neutral". You can also start the car on a slope."

Recently, automatic cars have become increasingly popular among buyers, since driving such a machine is much easier and, according to many experts, safer, since the driver can fully concentrate on the road. Many motorists, meanwhile, do not realize that operating an automatic transmission also requires certain knowledge and skills.

In fact, driving a car with automatic transmission is much easier, because the driver only needs to turn on the “Drive” mode and press the accelerator and brake pedals, the car will do the rest. It will not stall when starting off, it will not roll back if you have to start on a hill, and finally, it does not distract the driver from the road by having to work with the gear lever. However, in order not to prematurely spoil an expensive node, you need to know the rules for handling it and its device. There are many tutorial videos on the internet on this topic.

What is automatic transmission

When driving a car with a manual transmission, the driver is forced to manually change gear ratios in order to achieve the optimal ratio of vehicle speed, fuel consumption and road conditions. In other words, when driving on well-rolled asphalt, you need to turn on the highest gear, which will provide high speed and minimal fuel consumption. Conversely, on a country road, you need to shift into a lower gear so that the driver has the maximum torque and power to overcome difficult sections. At the same time, the driver is required to control the readings of the speedometer and tachometer, assess the condition of the road surface, work with the clutch and gear lever.

If the car is equipped with automatic transmission, then all of the above operations are performed without human intervention. The automatic transmission is especially convenient for novice drivers, as it saves them from the main difficulty - starting off.

The principle of operation of an automatic transmission

An automatic transmission consists of two main components: a hydromechanical assembly and a control system. As you might guess, the first one performs the main work - it transfers torque from the engine to the drive wheels, and the second determines the order of work.

The automatic transmission control system includes a control unit, input sensors, and actuators. The control system includes sensors that determine:

selector lever position;
rotational speed at the box inlet and outlet;
oil temperature;
as well as sensors for the "kick-down" and "tiptronic" modes, if the automatic transmission has a manual mode.

The control unit, based on the information received from the sensors, determines the order in which the gear shift occurs as laid down in the program. In addition to input sensors, the control unit receives data from other vehicle systems: ABS, electronic engine management system (ECM), steering and climate control.

Information about the crankshaft speed, throttle position, and gas pedal position is transmitted from the ECM to the automatic transmission control unit. Following this, the engine control unit receives signals from the automatic transmission control system and reduces the torque at the moment of gear shifting.

Based on the readings of the sensors of other systems, the gearbox control unit determines the driving conditions of the vehicle:

slip;
uphill movement;
descent;
turns.

Modern cars are equipped with adaptive "machines", i.e. those that can be tailored to a particular driver. The control unit evaluates such parameters as the intensity of acceleration and deceleration. Based on this information, one or another automatic transmission algorithm is launched. In addition, the adaptive automatic transmission control unit takes into account the driving conditions of the car: the presence of a trailer, descent, ascent, turns, ice, the car is driving in the city or on the highway.

More details on the logic and operation of the automatic transmission can be found in the video.

Automatic transmission operating modes

Unlike "mechanics", where the driver independently selects a specific gear depending on the situation, on a car with automatic transmission, using the selector, you can select a specific mode of operation that is most suitable in a particular case.

There are four main modes included in the automatic transmission control unit:

P - parking;
D - drive (main);
N - neutral;
R - reverse.

In P mode, the vehicle's drive wheels are blocked. It is selected when the car is parked. In this mode, it can be started, including using autorun, without the risk that it will go without a driver. The effect of "parking" is equivalent to a tightened handbrake. Although manufacturers recommend using the handbrake, it is usually sufficient to put the selector lever in P-mode to eliminate the possibility of the machine moving even if stopped on a slope.

D is the main operating mode of the automatic transmission. When it is turned on, it will be enough just to release the brake pedal, and the car will go. With a set speed and an increase in crankshaft speed, the control unit gives a command to sequentially shift gears up, with a decrease, respectively, down.

If you need to slow down, just release the gas pedal, then the car will start engine braking. If it is necessary to accelerate sharply, for example, when overtaking, it is necessary to press the gas pedal “to the floor”, this will serve as a signal for the gearbox to shift into a lower gear (“kick-down” mode).

N is the neutral position of the lever. This is how the control unit disconnects the gearbox and engine. It is used when the car is stopped for a long time, for example, in a traffic jam, or when towing.

Finally, R is reverse mode.

In addition to the four main ones, an automatic transmission can also have additional modes that significantly expand its functionality. These include:

winter mode, when selected, the control unit immediately engages second gear when starting off to prevent slipping of the drive wheels (denoted as W, Winter, Snow or a snowflake image);
D1, D2, D3 - modes that limit the choice of the highest gear. Depending on the number, these will be the first, second and third, respectively. This is required when climbing a steep hill in a heavily loaded vehicle or when driving on bad roads;
sports mode - when it is turned on, the control unit gives commands to turn on higher gears only after the engine speed has risen to the maximum value;
manual shift mode. Gears are switched by the driver either by a selector or paddle shifters.

Rules for operating a car with automatic transmission

By itself, the “automatic” is a fairly reliable unit, and if you follow some rules, you will be able to drive more than one hundred thousand kilometers by car without repairing and replacing the gearbox.

Rule One

To start or reverse, just press the brake pedal. After that, turn on the desired mode (D or R) and release the brake. There is also an opinion among car owners that in order to transfer an automatic transmission from mode D to mode R or vice versa, it is necessary to first turn on neutral (N). Experts argue that this opinion is erroneous, since in this case the driver forces the gearbox to make an extra shift, which leads to its accelerated failure.

Rule Two

It is necessary to start moving, both forward and backward, only after the gear is fully engaged, as evidenced by a characteristic push.

Rule Three

Do not turn on neutral while driving. The car must coast, because, firstly, it is unsafe, and secondly, the subsequent engagement of a gear can cause serious damage to the automatic transmission.

Rule Four

When stopping for a long time, it is better to put the car in neutral, this will avoid overheating of the oil in the gearbox.

Rule Five

If possible, avoid towing a car with automatic transmission, and if there is no other way to get to the service station, then move at a low speed, for a short distance. Otherwise, the risk of failure of the gearbox is quite high.

An automatic transmission is a good option for novice drivers who are just learning how to drive a car. When driving a car with automatic transmission, the motorist does not need to monitor the gear shift when driving in different modes. We suggest that you familiarize yourself with the points in the instructions for the automatic transmission in detail and find out what you can’t do when using automatic transmission.

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Operating modes of automatic transmissions

In order to properly use the automatic transmission, first we suggest understanding the purpose of the main operating modes of the unit.

Main functions

What features are in all automatic transmissions:

P mode or park. When this position is activated, the transmission locks the undercarriage of the machine, regardless of whether it is equipped with front or rear drive. As a result, the vehicle will not move, all gears are disabled when P mode is activated. This position must not be turned on if the vehicle is still in motion and has not come to a complete stop.
R mode. This function is designed to allow the vehicle to be driven in reverse. Its activation is allowed after a complete stop of the vehicle.
Neutral gear N. If there are malfunctions in the operation of the automatic transmission or the power unit, when the engine cannot be started, the N mode will allow you to move the machine forward and backward for short distances. Unlike mechanical transmissions, the neutral mode on the machine has certain features of operation. It is not allowed to turn it on in traffic jams, its activation is possible in emergency cases.
Mode D or Drive. Designed to ensure the movement of the machine forward. In automatic transmissions, this mode has a lock against accidental activation. If it is necessary to switch from the Drive function, this can only be done if the driver presses the brake pedal.
"4-3-2-L" function. It belongs to the category of special modes used to operate the vehicle in different conditions. In each of these positions, a certain number of speeds can be applied. For example, in mode 3, three gears are involved, and in position L, only one speed works. Thanks to this feature, the automatic transmission does not overheat the power unit. The first three functions are best used when driving uphill.

From the video of the channel Open Studio Kostroma you can learn about the operation of a car with an automatic transmission.

Tiptronic mode

One of the features of modern automatic transmissions is the presence of the Tiptronic function. This type of gearbox refers to automatic transmissions that support manual transmission control. Thanks to its presence, the driver can control the process of movement in difficult conditions. If you are tired of driving an automatic transmission, you can switch to manual control. At the checkpoint in the car, in addition to the traditional modes, you will see a special recess with the symbols "+" and "-". "+" - upshift, from first and above, and "-" - downshift.

Sports modes

In the transmissions of some car models, there is a sport mode function - Sport or Kickdown. Activating this position allows you to spin up the speed of the power unit and artificially switch to a lower gear. If necessary, the sports modes allow you to achieve a sharp acceleration, for example, when you need to overtake on the highway. When enabled, this position uses the maximum power of the motor, but this function is generally uneconomical for continuous use.

Other modes

Depending on the car manufacturer, the automatic transmission may have other operating modes:

D3 or S - reduced speed. A good option for operating the vehicle when driving uphill. By activating this position, the driver can brake and control the machine more effectively.
D2. This is usually equivalent to the L or 2 position. Also a reduced speed function for driving downhill or uphill. Its use is relevant when moving on sand, ice or when driving in difficult conditions.
Economic - E. Activating it allows you to economically use engine power to reduce fuel consumption.
Winter mode. It can be marked as "Snow", "W", "HOLD", "Winter". When this position is activated, a gentle driving mode is activated on snowy terrain, for example, when driving on ice or mud. In most vehicles, this provision has limitations in regular use due to the increased load on the mechanisms and transmission assembly. Due to overheating, its use is not allowed in the warm season when driving on dry asphalt.

How to use the automatic transmission

In order to prevent problems in the operation of an automatic transmission, you need to learn how to operate it correctly and take into account the rules for using and driving.

How to start moving:

The brake pedal is sunk into the floor. The gear lever shifts from park or neutral to D-drive.
The machine is removed from the parking brake.
The brake pedal is gently released and as a result, the car starts to move forward smoothly.
To increase the speed of movement, the driver presses the gas pedal. The harder he presses, the more the speed increases. To reset it, you just need to release the gas pedal. Automatic transmission in automatic mode will begin to reduce the speed of movement.
If you need to quickly slow down or stop, the driver presses the brake pedal. If you need further movement, just press the gas.
Please note that during this operation, the automatic transmission should always work in position D. Disabling this mode is possible for a long stop.

Transmission control features:

Automatic units should not be used cold at high loads. If it is summer outside, after parking, the car still needs to be warmed up by driving a few km at a reduced speed and not performing accelerations or other maneuvers. Keep in mind that the transmission takes longer to warm up than the car's engine. In order for the lubricant in the automatic transmission system to heat up faster, it is recommended to turn on all positions on the lever. Or, before driving, turn on the winter mode, if it is supported by the machine of your car.
Stick to driving on smooth roads. Most modern cars have a negative attitude towards driving on uneven surfaces, unless we are talking about a car specifically designed for such roads.
Press on the brake and start moving after parking should be smooth. Such operating conditions lead to an increase in the distance between the clutches of an automatic transmission. As a result, jerks will appear when you switch gears. The operation of the car will become less comfortable. With a sharp start, the seals begin to rub against the drum, which leads to their rapid wear. Grooves and retaining rings wear out, resulting in wear products in the form of metal chips in the system. As a result, when switching the selector, a crack and crunch will appear. Under high loads, bearing elements break quickly.

Features of use in winter

No less important for the unit is the correct operation of the transmission in the winter season. If you do not take into account the basic requirements, there will be problems in the operation of the automatic transmission that will lead to malfunctions.

Channel Avtotema TV talked about how to drive and use automatic transmission in the winter season.

What to consider when operating a machine with a machine gun in the cold season:

If you need to enter a turn, and there is ice on the roads, the maneuver is performed at a reduced speed. Either hit the brakes before the turn, or shift into low gear on the Tiptronic when it comes to manual control.
In the cold season, before driving, it is necessary to warm up the car to operating temperature. It is important that the antifreeze has time to heat up, which cools the transmission, as well as the oil in the box. When the lubricant warms up, it will become viscous, this will allow it to circulate through all the lines of the system.
If the driver needs to go urgently, it is recommended to warm up the unit to at least 40 degrees. Before the engine of the car warms up to operating temperature, it is advisable not to exceed the driving speed of more than 40 km / h, the engine speed should be no more than two thousand per minute. Avoid very sharp accelerations.
When the engine is started and warmed up to the desired temperature, move the gearbox control selector several times to all modes. In each position, you need to linger for a few seconds. This will ensure the circulation of consumables through the lines of the transmission system. The driver must apply the brakes.
At low negative temperatures, the first time before the internal combustion engine warms up, it is necessary to drive in a gentle mode. This will prevent rapid wear of the automatic transmission components.
If you cannot start the engine, you can not try to do it with the help of a tug. Automatic transmissions do not tolerate towing either in winter or in the warm season.

Traffic jams

Let's dwell on how to switch gears at a traffic light and drive a car in traffic jams. If you get stuck in a traffic jam, it is recommended to let the automatic transmission rest for a while. This will reduce the load on the units of the unit and ensure its more economical operation. If the automatic transmission selector is moved to position D, then when the brake is pressed, the engine will try to push the stopped car. The neutral position is switched on, the brake pedal is not released.

If you have to stand in a traffic jam for a long time, the parking mode is activated.

The transmission will lock the wheels and rest the driver's legs.

Paddle switches

The use of paddle shifters is relevant on Tiptronic. The rules for operating the unit are generally identical. The gear selector can be switched to the "+" or "-" mode to increase or decrease speed. The steering wheel has similar switches with the same symbols. To increase the speed, while driving, press the "+", and to reset - on the "-". The use of paddle shifters is relevant in dynamic driving conditions. Thanks to them, the driver can change the intensity of acceleration and increase the speed of the power unit.

Channel “Learning to drive. Fan Channel of the Main Road” spoke about the nuances of operating automatic transmissions.

How not to use automatic transmission

To prevent failure of the transmission, you need to study in detail the instructions for the automatic transmission and take into account the following rules:

Towing a car with automatic transmission is not allowed. On classic transmissions, there is no rigid connection between the wheels of the car and the power unit, so in principle it will not work to start the engine by towing.
When driving at high speed, try to shift the automatic transmission lever, watch the gears. If you drive fast and accidentally switch to first or second gear, the car will brake sharply, a jerk will occur. This is fraught with serious skidding and an accident.
While driving, switching the positions of the automatic transmission selector is not allowed. If the Drive mode is on, then it is impossible to move the lever to the neutral or parking position, this will lead to damage to the unit.
If the vehicle stops on a slope, it is necessary to apply the handbrake. Otherwise, the locking device may be damaged.
The inclusion of a neutral gear when driving in traffic jams is only allowed in the heat. At high temperatures, a warm gear lubricant will cool faster, but constant use of neutral speed is undesirable. Its activation is relevant when it is necessary to move the vehicle in emergency cases.
It is not recommended to experiment with different oils, especially with lubricant additives. If additives do not match the specifications of the transmission, their use will lead to undesirable consequences. When replacing a consumable, refer to the vehicle manufacturer's oil requirements.
Eliminate wheel spin. This requirement is relevant for winter, when ice or snow prevails on the street. Especially it is impossible to slip on asphalt. Modern cars are equipped with traction control systems, which is important for automatic transmission. If the car is stuck in the snow, the impact of such a system should be minimized, but it will not work completely.
Always follow the maintenance intervals for the unit, which are indicated by the manufacturers.
Do not tow other vehicles or trailers, automatic transmissions are not designed for this. The unit has a certain margin of safety. And if the gearbox does not fail immediately, then over time, the operation of the car under high loads will lead to malfunctions. If you plan to use a trailer, then refrain from buying a car with an automatic transmission or buy a crossover or SUV.

User JoRick Revazov spoke about the nuances of operation and mistakes that should not be made when operating an automatic transmission.

When carrying out repair work, be careful and prevent new damage from appearing at the checkpoint.
The place where the repair is carried out should be as clean as possible. Otherwise, dirt and debris may enter the gearbox, which will subsequently lead to contamination and poor performance. Because of this, when performing repair work, it is not necessary to use knitted gloves or wipe transmission components with such rags. It is better to use nylon rags or napkins.
The components and elements of the automatic transmission during repairs must be washed and dried with compressed air. Washing powder is used to clean steel components. As for friction linings, as well as plastic and rubber elements, gear oil is used to clean them.
In case of damage to the gearbox housing, it is necessary to disassemble and flush the transmission cooling system.
Always keep an eye on the level of lubricant in the box and its condition. If the oil loses its properties, it becomes less viscous, dark, wear products appear in it.
When disassembling the unit for repair, all parts and mechanisms must be put on the table in the order from dismantling, so as not to confuse the elements during assembly. Pay attention to the installation location of thrust washers, sealing components, valves, thrust rings, crankcase screws.
If the transmission of your car is equipped with a chain drive, then during the repair it is diagnosed for rapid wear. To check, measure its deflection in the middle of the chain itself in two directions. Its total deflection should be no more than 2.7 cm. If this parameter is greater, then the chain needs to be replaced.
When making repairs, remember how the cables are connected and the plugs with wires are connected to the valve box. If you mix up the connectors during further connection, this will lead to malfunctions in the gearbox. Sometimes it is problematic to dismantle the plugs, try not to pull the connectors by the wires.
If the hydraulic accumulator springs are similar and you can mix them up, label or mark them. When the spring elements differ in color, the color should not be used as an indication of the installation site. If the parts are placed incorrectly, this will affect the quality of the transmission shift.
Be careful when removing the brake band. Its deformation will lead to problems in operation. Damaged tape must be replaced.
After thorough washing and drying of parts and components, all elements are subject to visual diagnostics. It is necessary to identify the level of wear and understand whether they can continue to be used. Carefully inspect the contact surfaces of the bushings and thrust washers; if there is damage or signs of wear, these components are replaced. There must be no traces of rust, delamination, etc. on the housing of the bearing elements.
When repairing, it may be difficult to remove the gaskets. To prevent the appearance of defects on the aluminum surface of the crankcase and to qualitatively remove the remnants of the seal, use a special aerosol and a plastic scraper, but not a metal one. Otherwise, you will damage the surface itself, which may cause leakage of the lubricant.
When installing paper gaskets, they must be thoroughly dried. Installation of elements on hermetic glue is not allowed.
The screws on the gearbox housing are only tightened with a torque wrench. The tightening torque is indicated in the service manual. If the screws are not tightened correctly, the valves will stick, the lubricant will leak, and defects will appear on the internal elements and parts.
When assembling bearing elements and seals, experts advise using technical petroleum jelly. The use of a lubricant is not allowed, as this type of fluid does not dissolve in gear oil, unlike petroleum jelly. If motor lubricant enters the transmission control system, it will clog filter devices and lines.
Before installing the brake band or friction discs, these components must be soaked in transmission fluid for half an hour.

Features of adaptation of the unit

After performing repair work and dismantling the automatic transmission with further installation, it is necessary to adapt the automatic transmission. The adaptation procedure can be performed in different ways. It all depends on the specific type of automatic transmission, car and year of manufacture.

Universal instructions for adaptation:

Start the car engine and warm it up.
Stop the engine for five seconds, then start it again.
Increase the speed of the power unit to about 3 thousand per minute.
Stop the engine for five seconds and start it again.
Hold down the brake pedal. Move the automatic transmission selector to each position in turn.
Get moving. Do not make sudden accelerations, move smoothly.
Accelerate to 40 km / h, so drive for about one minute, then slowly release the gas pedal and stop the car.
Shut down the engine and start it up.
Accelerate to 80 km / h, at this speed you need to drive for one minute, then stop and turn off the engine.
Start the ICE.
For twenty minutes, you need to ride in different modes, adhering to the same speed.
Remove any traces of transmission fluid from the bottom of the transmission. Drive the car for about 20 km, the engine load should be low. Make sure no oil is leaking from the gearbox. Check its level and add lubricant to the system.

Photo gallery

Photos of automatic transmissions in different cars are given below.

1. Automatic transmission shift lever in a Mercedes 2. BMW automatic transmission selector 3. Automatic transmission in a Skoda Rapid

Despite the already fairly significant prevalence of automatic transmissions, many car owners do not know how to properly operate such a mechanism so that it will serve properly for the entire period declared by the manufacturer and never cause serious problems.

In particular, the material below will be useful to those who are going to transfer to a car with an automatic transmission and want to understand all the basic rules for the successful use of automatic transmission and some of the subtleties.

The automatic machine is most convenient for beginners in driving a car without experience. The most notable advantage is the absence of the distraction of shifting gears, which allows you to learn practical skills related to driving much faster. Also, the automatic transmission is convenient on long trips, in which you will be less tired than with a mechanical version of the gearbox.

However, despite the undoubted convenience, automatic transmissions require a noticeably more careful approach to operation and have a number of their own features.

Automatic transmissions began to be developed back in the 30s of the last century. The very first full-fledged well-functioning devices were used on American cars in the 40s of the twentieth century.

Certain developments were also produced on the territory of the USSR, which were successfully used on Chaikas and GAZs, and on LiAZ buses, as well as other special vehicles.

So, how to use the automatic transmission correctly? Everything is quite simple. The engine starts, the brake is pressed, the gearbox lever is moved to the desired position. Typically, this is the "D" position. Next, release the brake and gently press the gas pedal. The car pulls away smoothly. To slow down, the gas pedal is released, for a sudden stop, the brake is pressed. One of the main factors to consider is that a car with an automatic transmission will always consume more fuel on average than a car with a manual transmission.

All automatic transmission models most often have a standard set of modes, with the exception of some branded options that are characteristic of any specific models of the gearbox itself or specific models of cars.

Automatic transmission modes

A mode called "Parking" - P - parking mode. When the lever is installed in this position, the blocker inside the unit works, making the machine immovable.

Reverse mode - R - for reverse gear.

Neutral mode - N - a car for free movement of a car in any direction. Can be used for short towing, while constantly using the neutral mode is not worth it.

Drive mode - D - driving forward. To activate this mode, you must first press the brake pedal.

Further, for each mode there are four variations, these are the “4, 3, 2, L” modes. All of them are designed for different road conditions, steep ascents and descents, ice and other things. For example, in the "L" mode, you can "storm" steep hills, due to high speeds and powerful traction. If you try to climb steep climbs in the normal mode of the machine, the box can switch at the most inopportune moment, which threatens to stop in the most inopportune position with a slope or a car breakdown.

Often, automatic machines are supplemented with manual control mode by tiptronic or steptronic. When this mode is on, you can drive a car in difficult conditions more controlled, having cutouts for the trajectory of the automatic transmission selector with the values \u200b\u200bof “-” and “+”.

There are also "Sport" or "Kickdown" modes that allow you to accelerate sharply when overtaking and perform other maneuvers. However, it is better not to use it on a daily basis, as it is very uneconomical.

Using the D3 (S) mode, a lower gear is engaged, which also allows much better control of the car under conditions of uneven terrain, a steep ascent or descent.

D2 is similar to "2" and "L" modes - even lower gears to overcome sands and other difficult road conditions.

In addition, other mode options can be included in the automatic transmission, for example, E - economical or S - sports.

On some boxes there is also a winter mode, indicated either by a snowflake or "SNOW", "W", "HOLD", "WINTER". It can be used in winter on snow and ice, but it is highly not recommended to turn it on in summer for driving on asphalt, due to the creation of a large load on the gearbox components, which can easily overheat.

The "Shift" button is used to disable the selector lock in a situation of a complete blackout of the machine.

At the same time, automatic transmission technologies are constantly changing and developing, and different automakers may have different designations for the same modes. Therefore, it is worth carefully studying the manuals specifically for your car.

Engage reverse, park, or forward modes only after making sure that the vehicle has come to a complete stop.

Try to always make smooth starting and smooth braking. Sharp actions lead to breakdowns, or at least an increase in jerks during switching.

Do not tow other vehicles or trailers, or pull other vehicles out of the mud. For a machine, this will almost inevitably lead to rapid wear and tear.

Automatic transmission should be serviced in a timely manner. Such a device is sensitive to the quantity and quality of the oil in it. For the machine is suitable only with the marks "JAC" or "ATF".

When stuck in mud or sand, you do not need to persistently slip, pushing the accelerator into the floor. The unit will overheat quickly, there will be a big threat of breakage. It is better to push the car outside or wait for help.

While using the "3, 2, L" modes, keep an eye on the speed on the tachometer, not allowing the red sector to exceed the permissible limits!

If your car with a gun needs to be towed, remember that the speed thresholds for such towing will be 40-50 km / h, and the distance is about 40-50 km. For certain car models, these values are even lower. However, still, calling a tow truck will cost less than repairing an automatic transmission.

When starting off on a cold car in winter, the automatic transmission must be warmed up by starting the engine and switching gearbox modes in turn to start the oil circulation process. You can also stand a little in the operating mode with the brake pressed.

Do not neglect the handbrake for parking. The manufacturers themselves recommend using the "handbrake" in conjunction with the "P" mode.

Never start a car by towing. Sometimes this can be done, but most likely the wrong algorithm will lead to a breakdown of the automatic transmission, which will be very expensive to fix.

Be extremely careful when moving the lever at speed. For example, at speeds over one hundred km / h, turning on mode “2” or “L” will sharply slow down the car, can lead to skidding and.

With any movement, you cannot switch to antagonist modes. Switching to reverse or park is only possible after a complete stop.

Use the parking brake when stopping downhill - you will save the blocker from breakage.

Do not use neutral mode during traffic jams and short stops. This mode disconnects the engine from the chassis and is used only in emergency cases. “Neutral” on is two different things!

Do not experiment with different oils and additives. They very easily lead to a breakdown of the automatic transmission, to its costly repair.

Do not ignore the automatic transmission service intervals that are specified by the manufacturer, even if you do not use the car very intensively.