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Initially, it was assumed that automatic cars were designed for the elderly or people who cannot drive manual cars for whatever reasons. But that has changed: automatic cars are now wide. So it is important for individuals to learn how to use controls in an automated car.

However, if you are used to driving a manual car and have never driven an automatic car, you first need to learn new tricks. Apart from the usual mistakes to avoid when driving an automatic car, you also need to get used to operating the controls.

The controls in an automatic car give you many options which you can only use if you understand them in the first place.

The Gearbox

How to use the controls in an automated car

Here is what you need to know about the automatic gearbox before you start driving an automated car:

An automated car’s gearbox typically has four selections:

Note that some automated cars have gearboxes with the option of selecting first or second gear to help you in situations when you want to slow the speed using the gearbox. For instance, when you are driving down a steep road.

The option will also help keep the revs down and stop your wheels from spinning when you pull away in certain situations.

One such situation is when driving through snow or ice. Pulling away in second gear will stop the wheels from spinning. In some car models, the control is called “winter mode.”

There are only two pedals in an automatic car: the accelerator and the brake. The role of a gearstick is taken over by a lever/selector. It is easy to forget that you drive an automated car and then press down on the brake pedal like you do the clutch pedal in a manual car. This can result in an instant emergency stop.

How to Use Controls to Drive an Automated Car

How Do You Practice Driving An Automated Car?

How to use the controls in an automated car

To practice how to drive an automated car, turn off the engine and start practicing on the gears and pedals.

You will be controlling both the pedals with your right foot. Try getting used to that.

Once you have mastered that, it’s now time to learn how to move the gearbox from Park to Drive, Neutral, and Reverse modes. With your foot on the foot brake, push the button on the side of the gearshift you want to change to.

It would be best if you practiced until you no more have to look down whenever you want to change the modes.

How Many Different Types Of Automatic Gearboxes Are Available?

Any car that changes its gears automatically without a clutch pedal application is considered an automatic vehicle. However, automated vehicles have different types of automatic gearboxes.

As you learn to use the controls in an automated car, you need to take into account the type of gearbox it has. The following are the different types of automatic gearboxes:

However, it has a slower acceleration compared to the other automatic gearboxes. Its engine is also loud and strained when you try to adjust speed rapidly.

This allows for rapid gear changes because the next ratio is prepared and lined up in advance. This gearbox is found in Volkswagen Golf.

The cars with this type of gearbox are usually jerky, like any other manual car. A slight pause ensues as the system works itself through the gears.

Wrap Up

How to use the controls in an automated car

An automatic car requires high maintenance, so you should be careful when you are driving one. Any type of mechanical damage you cause could be costly to rectify. On the flip side, new generation automatic gearboxes are more reliable, thanks to technological advances.

An automated car is faster and more efficient. But use it responsibly because speeding even on an empty road is risky.

At Pierre Paul Driving School, you get to learn both a manual and an automated car so that you can handle any car.

Do you want to learn how to use the controls in an automated car or know anyone around Brooklyn, New York, interested? Reach out to us today, or refer others.