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5 Things You Should Never Do In An Automatic Transmission Vehicle
Automatic transmissions are designed to make driving easier and more convenient, but that doesn't mean you can treat them with reckless abandon. There are several common mistakes that drivers make with automatic transmissions that can lead to premature wear and tear, reduced fuel efficiency, and even costly repairs. Here are five things you should never do in an automatic transmission vehicle:
1. Coasting in Neutral
Many drivers believe that coasting in neutral (putting the car in N and letting it slow down) saves fuel. However, this is a myth. When you coast in neutral, the engine is disengaged from the transmission, and the car is essentially coasting on its own momentum. This can actually cause more wear and tear on the transmission, as it's not designed to operate in neutral while the car is moving. It can also cause the car to lose engine braking, which can be dangerous in certain situations.
2. Shifting from Reverse to Drive While Moving
It may seem tempting to shift from reverse to drive while the car is still moving, but this is a big no-no. When you shift from reverse to drive while the car is moving, you are putting a lot of stress on the transmission, which can cause damage. The transmission is designed to be in neutral when the car is stopped. When you shift from reverse to drive while moving, you are essentially forcing the transmission to engage while it is still in motion. This can cause the gears to clash, which can lead to damage to the transmission.
3. Shifting into Park While Moving
Just like shifting from reverse to drive while moving, shifting into park while the car is still moving can cause damage to the transmission. The parking pawl, which locks the transmission in park, is designed to engage only when the car is stopped. If you shift into park while the car is moving, you risk damaging the parking pawl, which can make it difficult to shift into park.
4. Revving the Engine While in Park
Revving the engine while the car is in park can cause damage to the transmission. When you rev the engine in park, the transmission is not engaged, which means that the engine is turning the transmission output shaft without any resistance. This can cause the transmission fluid to overheat and damage the transmission components.
5. Ignoring Warning Lights
If your car's transmission warning light comes on, don't ignore it. It's a sign that something is wrong with the transmission, and it's important to get it checked out by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring the warning light can lead to further damage to the transmission, which can be costly to repair.
Conclusion
By following these simple tips, you can help to prolong the life of your automatic transmission. Remember, a healthy transmission is essential for safe and efficient driving. If you have any doubts about your car's transmission, don't hesitate to consult a mechanic.