Beginner’s Guide: Driving an Automatic Car

Learning to drive an automatic car can be a good choice for learner drivers because they are easier to operate than a manual car. An automatic car has no clutch pedal or needs to change gear, meaning beginners can focus on steering, road awareness, and making safe decisions. This can help new drivers build confidence more quickly than manual drivers.

However, if you learn in an automatic vehicle and pass your driving test in one, you will only have an automatic licence rather than a manual licence.

How Does an Automatic Car Work?

What make automatic cars work what is the difference between a manual and automatic car? In a manual car, drivers use a clutch pedal and a gear stick to shift gears manually. Automatic cars select the correct gear automatically using automatic transmissions that adjust to higher gears automatically based on speed and engine power. This eliminates the need for a clutch pedal and gear shifter, allowing drivers to focus on accelerating, braking, and steering. The simplicity of this system makes automatic cars much easier and more convenient, especially for beginners.

Familiarising Yourself with the Basics of an Automatic Car

Gear Selector

An automatic gearbox can transfer the right amount of power (torque) from the engine to the wheels and make gear changes automatically.

An automatic car’s gear selector has a few main positions. P (Park) locks the wheels to keep the car stationary. R (Reverse gear) allows the car to move backward, used for reversing out of spaces. N (Neutral) disengages the transmission, letting the car roll freely if the brake isn’t applied. D (Drive) is for forward driving, with the car automatically shifting to higher gears based on speed.

Pedals

Automatic vehicles have two pedals – the accelerator pedal on the right to control speed and the brake on the left to slow down or stop. To drive an automatic transmission, learner drivers should use only their right foot, not their left foot, for both pedals to avoid confusion or pressing both at the same time.

Dashboard Symbols

Key dashboard indicators include the parking brake light (usually red, shaped like a “P” or circle) to remind you to release the brake before driving, and the low fuel light, which warns when fuel is critically low. The check engine light signals potential engine issues, while the gear selector indicator shows your current gear position (P, R, N, or D). Knowing these symbols helps you address warnings promptly and drive safely.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Drive an Automatic Car for Beginners

Step 1: Adjusting the Seat, Mirrors, and Steering Wheel

Adjust the driver’s seat so your feet can reach the pedals comfortably. Set the steering wheel to the desired height and adjust your mirrors for clear visibility.

Step 2: Starting the Car and Understanding the Ignition Process

With your foot on the brake, shift the gear lever to P (Park), then turn the ignition key or press the start button to start the engine. Always ensure the car is in Park before starting to avoid unintended movement.

Step 3: Moving from Park to Drive

Keep your foot on the brake, shift from P (Park) to D (Drive), and release the parking brake. Gradually press the accelerator to move the car forward smoothly.

Step 4: Accelerating and Braking Smoothly

Gently press the accelerator to increase speed and ease off for smooth acceleration. For braking, gently press the brake pedal to slow down, ensuring a smooth and controlled stop.

Step 5: Reversing the Car

To reverse, stop completely, change gears, shift from P or D to R (Reverse), and check your surroundings. Gently release the brake and press the accelerator to reverse smoothly.

Step 6: Parking and Turning Off the Car

Shift the car from D (Drive) to P (Park), apply the parking brake, and turn off the engine. Always ensure the car is in Park and the parking brake is engaged before leaving the vehicle.

Conclusion

Automatic car driving is simple once you familiarise yourself with the basic steps. Follow our steo-by-step guide and with practice, you’ll quickly become comfortable with basic driving skills of moving, reversing, and parking. You’ll soon feel at ease behind the wheel and ready to enjoy the freedom of driving an automatic car.

If you already drive automatic cars or have an automatic licence but would like to learn to drive a manual transmission car, Totally Driving can help. Don’t hesitate to contact us about gaining a full UK licence that entitles you to test drive both automatic and manual cars.