How to Use Automatic Car Transmission

Introduction

Automatic car transmission is a type of transmission that uses a fluid-filled torque converter to transfer power from the engine to the wheels. It is the most common type of transmission used in passenger cars today.

Automatic transmissions are easy to use and require very little driver input. However, it is important to understand how they work in order to use them properly.

Basic Operation

Automatic transmissions use a planetary gearset to change gears. The planetary gearset consists of a sun gear, a ring gear, and a planet carrier. The sun gear is connected to the engine, the ring gear is connected to the wheels, and the planet carrier is connected to the transmission output shaft.

When the transmission is in gear, the torque converter transmits power from the engine to the planetary gearset. The planetary gearset then uses the sun gear, ring gear, and planet carrier to change gears.

Gear Selector

The gear selector is used to select the desired gear. The most common gear selector positions are:

• Park (P): This position locks the transmission output shaft, preventing the wheels from turning.
• Reverse (R): This position engages the reverse gear, allowing the car to move backward.
• Neutral (N): This position disengages the transmission from the engine, allowing the car to coast.
• Drive (D): This position engages the forward gears, allowing the car to move forward.

Shifting Gears

To shift gears, simply move the gear selector to the desired position. The transmission will automatically shift into the correct gear for the current driving conditions.

It is important to note that you should not shift gears while the car is moving. This can damage the transmission.

Overdrive

Overdrive is a feature that allows the transmission to shift into a higher gear ratio at highway speeds. This reduces engine speed and improves fuel economy.

Overdrive is usually engaged by pressing a button on the gear selector. The button will typically be labeled with the word “Overdrive” or “OD”.

Tow/Haul Mode

Tow/haul mode is a feature that modifies the transmission shift pattern to improve performance when towing or hauling heavy loads.

When tow/haul mode is engaged, the transmission will hold gears longer and downshift more aggressively. This helps to keep the engine in the optimal power range for towing or hauling.

Tow/haul mode is usually engaged by pressing a button on the gear selector. The button will typically be labeled with the words “Tow/Haul” or “TH”.

Conclusion

Automatic car transmissions are easy to use and require very little driver input. However, it is important to understand how they work in order to use them properly.

By following the tips in this guide, you can ensure that you are using your automatic transmission safely and efficiently.