Jul 19, 2022

How to Drive a Vehicle with an Automatic Transmission: The ABCs of Gears

You may think gears are only found in manual transmissions. However, automatic transmissions also have gears, and it’s essential to understand what they do and how they work. Acura of Tempe will discuss the ABCs of gears – or the four types of gears found in automatic transmissions. We will also highlight the importance of knowing what type of gear your car is in.

Why Are Automatic Transmissions Becoming More Popular?

You may have noticed that automatic transmissions are becoming more and more popular, especially in new cars. And there’s a good reason for this – they offer several advantages over manual transmissions. For one thing, they’re easier to use. You don’t have to care about shifting gears yourself, which can be tricky if you’re not used to it. And because there are limited parts in an automatic transmission, they tend to be more reliable and require less maintenance than manual transmissions.

Understanding Automatic Transmission Gear Letters

However, even though automatic transmissions are easier to use, that doesn’t mean you can just put the car in drive and go. You need to know how they work to drive them effectively. For instance, it’s essential to understand the difference between the gearshift’s letters D, R, N, and P.

1. D is for Drive

You’ll use this gear most often when driving. It’s best for highway speeds and can also be used for city driving.

2. R is for Reverse

As you might expect, this gear is used for backing up. Be careful when shifting into reverse – many accidents happen because people forget to check their surroundings before putting the car in reverse.

3. N is for Neutral

This gear is used when you want to coast or if you need to start the car on a hill. You should also shift into neutral if you need to stop on the side of the road for any reason.

4. P is for Park

This gear is used when you’re parked and want to make sure the car doesn’t roll away. Remember that you should only shift into the park when the vehicle is completely stopped – otherwise, you could damage the transmission.

If you know your car’s gears, driving a vehicle with an automatic transmission will be a breeze! Remember to practice safe driving habits, pay attention to your surroundings, and you’ll be fine. Happy shifting!

Ending Note

If you’re in the market for a new car, visit Acura of Tempe serving Tempe, AZ, and take a test drive. We have various models available, each with gears that work together to create an efficient driving experience. Please stop by our dealership today to let us help you find the perfect car for your needs. Thanks for reading!