Automatics
Automatics & Semi-Automatics
Automatic and semi-automatic vehicles can be especially helpful for drivers with physical disabilities because they require less manual coordination. They are also a popular choice for many drivers due to their ease of use in busy urban areas.
Automatics have no clutch pedal. The transmission selects the most appropriate gear based on road speed and engine load. This reduces the physical effort required and allows the driver to concentrate more fully on the road.
As speed increases, the transmission shifts to a higher gear; as speed decreases or engine load increases (such as uphill), it selects a lower gear. In situations where you need to stay in a lower gear—like descending a steep hill—you can usually override the automatic selection using the gear selector.
Driving an Automatic
Before driving an automatic, make sure you understand the correct procedures.
Most automatics have a safety cut-out to prevent starting the engine while in gear, but you should always check that the selector is in P (Park) or N (Neutral) and that the parking brake is applied before starting the engine.
Basic selector positions:
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D – Drive
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R – Reverse
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N – Neutral
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P – Park
Some vehicles offer additional options—learn what they do before driving.
Use the accelerator smoothly. Heavy acceleration can:
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Cause sudden, uncontrolled movement
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Delay gear changes
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Waste fuel and increase emissions
Controlled Use of the Accelerator
When manoeuvring at low speeds, use minimal acceleration and light braking. One foot on each pedal can be convenient for slow manoeuvres, but during normal driving use only the right foot for both accelerator and brake. This improves anticipation and prevents:
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Unstable or unsafe braking/accelerating
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Increased wear and tear
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Difficulty switching between manual and automatic vehicles
The Gear Selector
Most automatics include these positions:
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P – Park: Locks the transmission; used only when stationary
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R – Reverse
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N – Neutral
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D – Drive
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2 – Second gear
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1 – First gear
Some models also include 3 or other variations. Numbered gears let you hold the vehicle in a lower gear—useful in heavy traffic, during manoeuvres, or when descending steep hills.
Always read your vehicle handbook for details specific to your model.
Kick-Down
Kick-down gives rapid acceleration, useful for overtaking. Press the accelerator sharply to the floor to force a quick downshift. Ease off the pedal to return to a higher gear.
The Importance of the Parking Brake
Fully apply the parking brake whenever the vehicle is stationary. If the selector is not in P or N, the car can move as soon as the accelerator is pressed.
Creep
Creep occurs when engine idle speed causes the vehicle to move slowly without using the accelerator. Use the brakes to prevent unintended movement.
Check your vehicle’s creep behaviour on level ground. Never rely on creep to hold the vehicle on a slope. Always apply the parking brake.
Paddle Control
Some automatic and semi-automatic vehicles have paddle shifters. These allow manual gear changes when additional control is needed—for example, selecting the correct gear before a bend.
Using paddles to increase engine power may increase fuel consumption.
Points to Remember
To drive safely in an automatic:
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Ensure engine idle (tick-over) isn’t too high, as this makes speed control difficult
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Avoid overconfidence—adjust your speed to road and traffic conditions
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Be aware that engine braking is reduced in automatics; select a lower gear if needed
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Control your speed in good time before corners or hazards
Automatics may shift up as you approach a corner due to reduced throttle pressure. Slow down before the corner, then accelerate gently through it.