In a driving school, a car with automatic transmission is just a salvation. After all, driving a “mechanics” is quite difficult, and not everyone can easily master a manual transmission. However, for the "machine" there are conditions and rules of operation. In order for the automatic transmission to serve you for many years, we will tell you about some of the nuances of its operation.
Pros and cons of automatic transmission
The convenience of the machine is that there is no need to switch gears and press the clutch, that is, the machine itself regulates this process. It is believed that automatic transmission - great option for autolady, it is not without reason that in driving schools the machine is popular with girls. Yes and driving instructors They say that learning to drive an automatic transmission is easier than learning to drive a mechanic.
Despite the convenience, the automatic transmission requires a more careful attitude. If you operate the manual transmission incorrectly, then in the event of a breakdown, only the clutch changes. As for automatic transmission, here you will have to change the entire box, and such a repair costs a lot of money.
One of the disadvantages of the "machine" is a certain thoughtfulness during the acceleration of the car. This is especially true for cars with a low-power engine.
Although for fans fast driving eat Alternative option with sport mode.
Today, many cars are equipped with a robotic box, which, according to car owners, is not particularly pleasing to them. Such a box behaves rather slowly, for example, when overtaking, when you need to pick up speed quickly. Here's the trick: you need to accelerate, you press the gas, but the tachometer needle stops, and the car seems to think. It is at this moment that the gas should be abruptly released, and then pressed again, and translational movements. This will help you get up to speed quickly.
Getting ready to drive with an automatic transmission
- depress the brake pedal ;
- check the position of the handbrake (if it is on, the red light on the panel lights up);
- if the machine is on the brake, then lower its handle;
- start the car and wait a couple of minutes, letting the oil warm up;
- press the button and turn on the gearbox;
- move the lever to required position(if you want to go forward, then this is D; back - R);
- as soon as you feel a slight push (after about one or two seconds), you can start moving.
How to drive an automatic transmission?
Switch modes carefully while driving, while avoiding the neutral gear. A car with automatic transmission does not like off-road, trailers, wheel slip, and it also does not like towing on a hitch (maximum 50 km). If a breakdown occurs, it is better to immediately call a tow truck.
If there is an obstacle at the beginning of the movement ahead, then the gas pedal should be pressed very carefully, otherwise the car may sharply “jump” back or forward.
During overtaking, when you turn on the mode, do not forget that the automatic box needs some time (several seconds) to execute the command.
Stop and parking
When disembarking passengers or waiting for a traffic light, put the machine on D.
If the parking is longer, then choose N to give the car a little rest. Do not forget about the brake pedal in any position.
Video on how to use automatic transmission correctly:
Good luck on the road and a happy journey!
The article used an image from the site onorino.ru.com
Ease and comfort in the process of driving a modern car is guaranteed by an automatic transmission. Unlike a manual gearbox, an “automatic” means to absolutely exclude the participation of the driver in manual gear control, which will greatly facilitate the process of driving a car.
Automatic transmission greatly simplifies the process of driving a car, because the driver's participation in manual gear control is excluded.
The planetary manual transmission was at the heart of the birth of the automatic transmission. It was designed only for partial automation of the process of driving a car and full control over the situation on the road. Two foot pedals were used to change gears: one served as a switch from a lower to a higher gear, while the second pedal was a reverse lever. Still, the presence of synchronizers made driving a little easier.
The American automonopolists Reo and General Motors (GM) simultaneously proposed a variant of the semi-automatic method of changing gears. The developments of General Motors relied on hydraulic control planetary mechanism. The flaws in such a device led to unreliable and unsafe control, while the clutch was used to change gears.
Chrysler was the final step in refining the gearbox. The introduction of hydraulic mechanisms in the transmission of vehicles served as the creation of a fluid coupling - main feature gearboxes. The innovative invention of this company consisted of a two-speed gearbox with the addition of an automatic overdrive. It looked like a Chrysler semi-automatic box with a hydraulic mechanism and overdrive.
How to drive an automatic in traffic jams
The presence of automatic transmission greatly facilitates the driver's control process. But, the situations along the way are so different and you need to learn how to use the “machine” correctly so as not to create unfavorable or dangerous moments on the road.
Automatic transmission does not tolerate sudden jerks
Sometimes situations on the track involve towing a car. Cars equipped with automatic transmission can still be towed, but only with the engine running and the lever in “N” mode. The towing speed must not exceed 50 km/h. At the same time, tow the car for long distance not worth it. It should be no further than 50 km. Towing is not allowed in the event of a breakdown power unit. The transmission will fail, and its repair will be quite expensive. Therefore, a vehicle with automatic transmission must be taken away with the help of a tow truck.
Even if the engine is running, towing vehicle with an "automatic" - an extreme measure when the situation is completely hopeless. Sometimes you need to start the car by applying towing. Such an extreme measure can be costly, but sometimes situations are insurmountable. To do this, the lever is set to the "N" mode and the ignition is started.
How to drive an automatic: video lesson
By smoothly pressing the “gas”, the tug will be able to accelerate the car to 30-40 km / h. After establishing such a speed, mode "2" is switched on and again "gas". After working out the motor, you need to switch the selector to the neutral position "N".
If the engine refuses to start, in order to prevent the transmission from overheating, you need to turn off position “2” on the selector. The use of such techniques is quite dangerous for normal operation automatic transmission, so they should only be used in very rare cases.
Before you drive a car with an automatic transmission, you need to learn all the modes of the control lever, in what conditions they should be used. The video of driving an automatic describes these functions in some detail in order to prevent the breakdown of an expensive transmission and not lead to an emergency on city roads.
How to learn to drive economically
With soaring fuel prices, many motorists are starting to save money. Those who switch from gasoline to gas, some see the benefit in purchasing electric cars, but you can just learn how to drive a little more economically in your own car without exposing your technique to various tricks.
Among motorists there is a rather common myth about how to drive an automatic, while saving fuel - this is 5th gear and a speed of 50-60 km / h. Even schoolchildren know that having their own mass, energy is needed to accelerate a vehicle. And the more such a mass, the more energy is needed.
If the car is moving long time at a constant speed, the fuel consumption is significantly reduced, but the air resistance force plays a very important role.
If the car moves for a long time at a constant speed, then fuel consumption is significantly reduced.
If, for example, a car doubles its speed, then the resistance increases up to eight times, since the drag force is proportional to the square of the speed and has the opposite direction. That is, to support a car that has doubled its speed, it will take not twice as much energy, but eight times as much. It follows that the minimum speed for big gear- This is the most economical mode for the car. Required speed in the highest gear can be completely different for each car.
However, the opinion of experts and motorists on this issue varies. A low speed within 55 km / h in high 4th or 5th gear can adversely affect the motor. Indeed, at low speeds, fuel consumption is significantly reduced, but the engine may fail. Therefore, it is important to prioritize correctly here: either saving on gasoline or on engine repairs.
Given the characteristics of each car, you can learn to slow down smoothly using the engine, and turn corners with minimal loss in speed. Engine RPM is also important. By optimally loading the engine, low fuel consumption is achieved at about 2000 rpm.
For example, at a speed of 55 km/h at all cars the average speed is 1400. In this case, gasoline consumption will be the lowest, but the parts in the mechanism may suffer significantly. Low fuel consumption will be achieved at 1800 rpm.
Each car has its own individual characteristics. The driver in the process of driving is obliged to pay attention to the vibration and detonation of the motor. For better savings, you need to switch to downshift, and then enable elevated. Do not immediately engage a high gear, as this can lead to engine damage. The minimum speed in 5th gear is most often provided for on small cars.
If the machine is equipped with a diesel or turbine engine, then it is better to familiarize yourself with all the characteristics in the instructions, since their operation is significantly different from standard gasoline engines. Experts believe that a clean radiator, clean spark plugs, clean space under the hood and cooling system are of no small importance in economy.
The highest rate in savings is driving style
The highest rate in savings is driving style. One of the tasks of a motorist is to learn how to brake smoothly, without jerking. It is necessary to adhere to the optimal constant speed and engine speed of 2000 rpm on average. There can be no question of any savings if technical condition car is not up to the mark.
Each driver should listen as much as possible to his car, to the operation of the engine. The machine is designed for man, and not vice versa.
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Automatic transmission differs from manual transmission in simple control and does not require additional skills or abilities from the driver. Even a child can successfully handle driving a car on the machine. The operation of an automatic transmission has its own characteristics.
The automatic transmission selector is the main control of an automatic transmission. On the automatic transmission selector, as a rule, the following designations are located:
P - Parking mode. The box is blocked.
N - Neutral, the wheels of the car are not blocked, the moment from the engine is not supplied to them.
D(D3) - Normal forward movement with all gears shifted sequentially.
S(L2,2,D2) – Downshift mode. IN extreme conditions This is a forced gear reset and engine braking. If winter mode is not provided, then S will be its analogue.
L (D1) - Movement only in first gear. It is impossible to drive in this gear for a long time and even more so quickly. The gearbox and motor will quickly overheat, fail and repair will be necessary.
Overdrive - Prohibition of switching the next gear. Needed for overtaking.
Power / Sport - Automatic transmission mode, when the gears are switched to more high revs engine.
ECO - Economy mode.
Winter/Snow - Driving mode on slippery surfaces (sand, snow, ice), the car will start from 2-3 gears, making it easier to overcome obstacles. This is especially true for winter conditions.
Block - Unlock button (may be in the form of a key) for shifting gears without a key in the ignition. Necessary for towing a car after an accident or breakdown.
Kick-down - Operating mode for fast acceleration. The gas pedal is pressed all the way, the machine “thinks” for 1-2 seconds and starts to accelerate the car sharply.
After buying a car, it is better to study its owner's manual. The machine seriously makes life easier for any car owner, but is not able to correct all his mistakes. For correct driving, you still need experience and understanding of the operation of the car.
How to drive a car with an automatic transmission?
- Before traveling, especially in winter period Be sure to let the car warm up. The oil should be distributed throughout the automatic transmission. Some manufacturers advise you to stand in gear for a few minutes (on the brake, of course). If this requirement is not observed, the box will break and repair will be required.
- It is not recommended to leave the car on the rise only in the parking lot, you must use the handbrake. In position P, the box is locked mechanically, but the lock is not designed for loads. If the car somehow starts moving in this position of the automatic transmission selector, it will be damaged.
- The rear and front change only when the car stops, but at the same time holding the lever in the N position is highly discouraged.
- Start moving only after a characteristic push into gear.
- Accelerate and move off as smoothly as possible. The wear of automatic transmission mechanisms depends on this.
- It is not recommended to move the lever to the N position during short stops at traffic lights, as well as when driving downhill. Experience shows that shifting gears at speed quickly disables the automatic transmission.
- When driving on slippery surfaces (rain, snow, ice, sand), it is necessary to move as smoothly as possible without slipping. If the car is still stuck, it is absolutely impossible to slip - the box can die right on the spot. There is a huge amount of advice and ways to overcome obstacles. Get used to driving smoothly in winter conditions.
- Periodically check the condition and level of the oil. Old oil loses its properties and can no longer provide the box with normal operating conditions.
- When overtaking, use the overdrive mode.
- If something is wrong with the box, you need to immediately transport it to the service and repair it. Driving on a faulty automatic transmission will only exacerbate the situation.
- The engine can only be started in positions N and P.
- If you need to move quickly, and the machine “dulls”, hold the gas and brake pedals for 1–2 seconds before starting to move, then release the brake sharply.
- It is not recommended to transport cars using automatic transmission. In extreme cases this can be done very slowly and only in the lowest gear (L).
- Use only the oil recommended by the manufacturer. If the oil has other properties, the automatic transmission will fail and repair will be necessary. To understand which brand is needed, the instruction manual will help.
automatic transmission and winter
Automatic transmission operating modes in winter have their own characteristics. Most automatic transmission failures occur in winter, so it is very important to follow the recommendations for operating a car in the cold season:
- In winter, there is a lot of snow, which leads to frequent slippage of the car. This should be avoided.
- It is important to warm up the box in winter, immediately after the engine has warmed up.
- If the automatic transmission oil has not changed for more than 30 thousand kilometers, it is worth replacing it. It is especially important to do this before operating the car in winter.
- It is necessary to switch the box to the “movement in winter” mode, if there is one in the car. It is usually denoted by the following characters: WINTER, SNOW, "*", HOLD.
Taking into account the peculiarities of driving a car in winter and observing the rules of operation, the car owner will save himself from many problems that are typical for this time of year.
Operation of popular car brands with automatic transmission
Ford Focus
The transmission of a Ford Focus car is as reliable and durable as other parts of this brand. Experts consider Ford transmissions to be among the most trouble-free and stable, in addition, their repair is quite simple and cheap.
Incorrect and careless operation, non-compliance with the recommendations of the Ford car manufacturer can lead to premature failure or even permanent failure of the Ford Focus automatic transmission, with the need for it complete replacement. To avoid such unpleasant consequences, do not neglect the simplest rules for using an automatic transmission in a Ford Focus car and the recommended ways to care for it.
By the way, these rules are quite simple:
- try to avoid a sharp start and braking, slipping of the Ford Focus car;
- be sure to warm up the Ford Focus before starting the trip;
- shift the selector correctly and smoothly, avoid using kick-down (forced downshifting);
- monitor the oil level in the automatic transmission, change it in time; You can find out the replacement period for an automatic transmission model by looking at the instruction manual.
- replace from time to time expendable materials car Ford Focus: filters, gaskets, oil seals.
If you follow these simple tricks, you can extend the operating period of the automatic transmission of a Ford Focus car several times over, as well as use its full potential.
Lada Granta
Lada Granta is the first car domestic manufacturer, on which an automatic transmission was installed, which was a real breakthrough in the engineering industry of our country. The first Lada Grant with such a gearbox was released in 2012. Automatic transmission for cars Lada Granta supplies Japanese firm JATCO. Transmissions of this brand are mounted on cars of such famous brands like Toyota, Nissan, Volkswagen, Mazda and Subaru. Adapting a Japanese automatic transmission with an engine manufactured in Tolyatti was not easy for manufacturers, in connection with this, the engineers decided to turn to their Austrian colleagues for help. As a result of these combinations, many functions of the automatic transmission from Japan had to be abandoned, but, in the end, it was still possible to combine the Asian automatic transmission with the domestic engine.
There is no doubt about the reliability of the automatic transmission of the Lada Grant car, Russian manufacturers managed to produce a really high-quality car, the constant repair of which is not required. Numerous test drives and positive reviews car owners of the car brand Lada Granta confirm this information. But, as in any other car, when operating an automatic transmission in a Grant, you must follow some rules:
- monitor the oil level in the automatic transmission and its condition, change filters and seals in time; What filters to use and what brand of oil is needed can be found by looking at the instruction manual;
- press the gas pedal smoothly, try to avoid slipping;
- in severe frosts, it is worth warming up the car for 10–20 minutes;
- when transporting, it is important to fix the drive wheels above the ground to avoid their rotation;
- you can’t drive a Lada Grant car when its engine is faulty, press the “gas” and “brake” pedals at the same time, and shift the gear to the “forward” or “backward” mode until the car’s movement is completely stopped;
- when reversing on a Lada Grant car, it is not recommended to switch to high speed;
- if the oil in the automatic transmission has become black or brown, it should be replaced immediately and the operation of the automatic transmission of the Lada Granta car should be diagnosed.
Toyota Camry
The body of the Toyota Camry 30 is equipped with a box U241E. This is a reinforced gearbox designed to work on 2 and 3 liter engines. The Camry 30 is in all respects a reliable and unpretentious car, this also applies to the box. The power reserve for a 30 body is quite solid, which allows you to operate the automatic transmission in quite extreme conditions and transmit a large moment without consequences for a long time. Compared to U240, 41 models have reinforced drums, axles and pump. For proper operation of the Camry 30, you will need to monitor the level and condition of the oil, like any automatic transmission, the U241E is sensitive to oil starvation. With a reliable Camry 30 at their disposal, drivers often simply forget about periodic maintenance, believing that this car must first pass its first million. This is not true. Camry 30 will travel more than 1,000,000 only with proper operation. Also on the 30th body you can find automatic transmissions U250, U141, U151. On 30 models with a 2AZ engine, a 5-speed U250 was installed.
Honda
Owners of the Honda Civic, Element, Pilot, Stream should remember that the automatic transmission does not have an additional cooling radiator and the box should be operated very carefully. Modern automatic transmissions Honda, for example, the Accord body, starting with the CL7, are equipped with an additional M mode, which is responsible for manual switching gears. D3 - Honda heavy duty mode: urban traffic, trailer, rough terrain.
Audi 8, BMW 3,5,6 and Volkswagen Phaeton
Automatic transmission 09L is installed on premium cars audi 8, BMW 3,5,6 series (except for the 7 series, a 5-speed body is still installed on the 740) and Volkswagen Phaeton . 09L has 6 stages and is designed for engines up to 3.5 liters. Due to the number of gears in the 09L, fuel economy is seriously affected, in addition, the 09L is a very reliable and unpretentious gearbox. For proper operation of the 09L, frequent replacement of the main filter element, a single-layer membrane, is necessary. If it is not changed, this will lead to oil starvation and the 09l will quickly fail and need repair.
Mercedes
The Mercedes Benz brand independently develops and manufactures gearboxes for its cars, which is why the characteristics of this unit have reliable and durable parameters. The operation of the automatic transmission of Mercedes cars is particularly smooth, which fully coincides with the ideology of the design of cars of this brand as a whole. Most models of the Mercedes Benz brand have a gearbox - a variator type.
A variator is a device in an automatic transmission that transmits torque, which is aimed at smoothly changing the gear ratio in a certain control range. In other words, the CVT is needed for stepless motion, which imparts smooth rotation to the drive wheels. Thus, a Mercedes with a CVT-type gearbox starts its movement more smoothly, and picks up speed without dips and jerks. Acceleration at the same time occurs more rapidly due to the lack of gear shifting.
Also, the owner of a Mercedes car with a CVT-type automatic transmission will never have to experience such unpleasant moments as a car stalling at a traffic light or rolling back when driving uphill. Some motorists may be alerted by the absolutely identical sound of the engine, regardless of the speed and mode in which it operates, but apart from the lack of aesthetic pleasure from the sporty "roar" of the engine, this does not bear any negative consequences, and does not affect the dynamic properties of a Mercedes car in any way.
The variator box has several significant operational differences that owners of a Mercedes car should consider:
- Pour into the variator special liquid, which differs from the usual oil required for automatic transmissions. In addition, careful monitoring of the level of this fluid in the gearbox is required.
- Heavy loads on the car in cold weather should be avoided. Before driving, be sure to warm up the car.
- The operation of the variator box directly depends on the health of the pressure sensors, speed, crankshaft position. In the event that at least one of them fails, the use of a Mercedes car will have very detrimental consequences, including wrong work transmission. Therefore, it is very important to monitor the car's sensors, to do their visual inspection before each start of movement.
- And most importantly, if a variator box malfunctions, it cannot be repaired on its own. It is necessary to repair the variator and replace it only with specialists in the car maintenance salon. The repair of the variator has not been mastered in Russia to the proper extent, you should remember this and not subject the gearbox to unnecessary loads.
- Study the manual for a car with a CVT and do not make mistakes.
Automatic transmission selector and automatic operating modesTo control the gearbox, a mode selector and, possibly, additional control buttons are installed in the cabin. With their help, the driver has the opportunity to set such a sequence of automatic gear changes that best suits the driving conditions.
It should be noted that for safety reasons, the automatic transmission only allows the engine to be started in the "N" or "P" position. On models that lock the transmission selector when the ignition is off, the ignition key must be turned from the LOCK position (steering wheel lock) to the ON position (ignition on) before moving the lever out of park position P to unlock both the lever and the steering wheel . Otherwise, the steering column or range selector may be damaged.
Each gear change while driving will be accompanied by some reduction in engine speed. Only in this case, it must be borne in mind that the tachometer needle reacts in the same way to the blocking of the torque converter (however, the drop in speed in this case will not be as noticeable as during gear changes - see below).
P-R-N-D-3-2-1, Hold, Power is possible modes machine operation. These also include a small button near the selector (if any) and a large mode lock button (switch limiter) on the selector.
The service black button at the selector (if, of course, there is one) when pressed, allows switching with the ignition off. For example, by pressing this button, you can move the lever to "Neutral" (N) to push a non-starting car. In a car service, removing dashboard or by setting new radio, in the same way, you can also move the lever, say, to position "1" for easier access to the console. And on some models without it, it is difficult to shake out the ashtray.
P - Parking or parking - serves to keep the car in the parking lot. You can switch to this mode only when the car is completely stopped. Accidental switching to this mode is blocked by a button on the selector of the machine.
In the gearbox in this mode, "neutral" is set, which provides a normal engine start mode. In this selector position, the gearbox shaft is blocked by a special hook and the front wheels do not spin.
It is not recommended to leave the car only on P if the slope exceeds 10-15% (more than 5 degrees) - this threatens to “bite” the parking stop. An easy way to determine the acceptable parking angle without a handbrake on a working box is to let off the gas and see if the car rolls backwards.
When stopping on slopes, press the brake pedal, move the selector to N, depress the handbrake, release the brake pedal, and only then put the selector to P. Move off the slope in the reverse order. Squeeze out the brake, put the selector in D, then release the handbrake and start moving, throwing your foot from the brake to the gas.R - Reverse - reverse. You can switch to this mode only when the car is completely stopped. Random switching is blocked by a button on the selector of the machine.
N - Neutral - neutral gear. In this position of the selector, the car, as well as on "P", can be started, but the shaft does not block. However, it differs from the neutral mode on manual gearboxes. In this mode, you cannot roll downhill or tow the machine with the engine off without risking damage to the machine. The fact is that oil pump located on the input shaft of the automatic transmission, so when the engine is turned off, it will not work, which means there will be no ATF circulation and the box may overheat.
There is an opinion that, standing at a traffic light, you should go to "N", because in the "D" mode something slips and wears out there. In fact, this is not so, all the elements of the box are immobilized, the clutches are clamped, the first gear is engaged and only the pump pumps the transmission fluid idle. In this case, the movement begins without slipping of the friction pairs, which come into operation only when switching to second gear. The transition from the "N" mode to "D", on the contrary, makes them work harder.
In addition, when transferring the selector from the "N" to "D" mode, you should not immediately press the gas, but you need to wait for a characteristic push, which will show that the box has entered the driving mode and selected the desired gear, and in the heat of the rush you can forget about it.
So it is not recommended to use the "N" mode, except when restarting a stalled engine, as well as towing the car or rolling it manually with the engine off. At short stops, for example at a traffic light, the selector should not be moved to either the "N" position or the "P" position, and in such cases the vehicle should be kept in place with the help of the brakes. If, during long stops in traffic jams, your leg is tired, then it is better to immediately set the "P" mode. You can also do it when stopping in hot weather to reduce heat generation and prevent overheating of the ATF in the box.
When driving on long descents, it is not recommended to set the selector lever to the "N" position. This will not save fuel, but may cause the box to overheat when returning to D for high speed.
So when coasting, it is better to leave the selector in the position in which it was before. In this case, the box will switch to the highest of the permitted gears and provide minimum braking engine. If you rolled in "N" mode, the subsequent transition to "D" will make the box wait to enter the driving mode, since it needs time to shift into the desired gear.
Switching the selector lever before starting the movement and when changing direction (forward-backward) must be carried out with the brake pedal depressed and the car completely stopped. Start moving, removing your foot from the brake pedal and transferring it to the gas pedal, should only be after a characteristic push, indicating full inclusion transmission.
The drive mode selector lever is designed to allow shifting without depressing the detent, both when planing from a standstill and while driving. That is, everything that switches without pressing the large button on the selector can be switched on the move without restrictions, and what does not switch without pressing this button requires certain precautions.
So, for example, if you need to move the handle from position "N" to position "D" or "3", then this can be done by simply pulling it towards you. Or if you want to move the lever up from "1" to "2", "3" or "D", then this can be done without any restrictions in movement (just try not to jump into "N" while doing this - this is not dangerous, but unpleasant).
However, if you want to move the lever from position "3" to position "2" or "1" or, even more so, to position "R", then without pressing the latch you will not succeed. This is done to prevent breakdowns and overloads of the transmission when the driving mode is selected incorrectly. Setting the lever to the position where it can be moved only with the locking button pressed, is carried out either after a complete stop (if you need to set "R" or "P"), or after slowing down (if necessary, set "2" from "3" or "one").
D - DRIVE - the main mode of operation - driving is allowed in all gears (there are 4 of them in this machine): first (1), second (2), third (3-direct, with gear ratio 1), fourth (4, which in these machines can be called overdrive (overdrive), since the gear ratio is less than one - 0.69). The fourth gear in automatic transmissions is similar to the fifth in manual boxes, that is, it is an overdrive, unlike the third, which is a direct gear. In addition, in D mode, the torque converter quickly locks up (see "Note on torque converter lockup"), which is favorable when driving on the highway (the consumption decreases by 1.5-2 liters), but extremely undesirable in the city (the reaction to the gas pedal becomes sluggish ).
Notes:
During long climbs (when moving up an inclined plane)
Unwanted upshifting at the moment of releasing the accelerator pedal when driving on long hills is automatically prevented. This reduces the need to downshift when you hit the gas again if you feel a lack of power. It also prevents multiple gear shifts and results in smoother climbing.
During long descents (when moving down an inclined plane)
Pressing the brake pedal downhill will automatically cause the transmission to shift to a lower gear (when driving in D - to 3rd), thus causing some engine braking. However, even short-term acceleration will cause the transmission to shift normally into upshifts.
However, in some cases, pressing the brake pedal on descents does not lead to automatic switching transmission to a low gear This can occur due to very low temperatures transmission fluid e.g. after a long parking. In this case, until the temperature of the ATF rises to about 60 degrees, manual downshifting will be required to brake the engine.
Also, the transmission will not downshift at speeds greater than 78 km/h.
If possible, do not use mode D in the city, especially in winter - by forcibly excluding overdrive and the possibility of blocking the torque converter, you make the car more "alive" (the automatic transmission switches down faster when overtaking and changing lanes) and, in addition, you can use the mode more efficiently engine braking when releasing gas. Remember that automata like Subarovskih (with overdrive and torque converter lockup, allowed in the selector position D), some observers call "brake" precisely because when trying to accelerate on the D box, you often have to first unlock the torque converter, and then also switch up transfer down, which, understandably, takes some time.
In addition, by eliminating the highest gear in the city (by setting the selector to 3), you avoid unnecessary shifts and frequent engagement of the torque converter lock-up, which prolongs the life of the automatic transmission (frictions and brake bands) that you will need on the highway.
And, finally, the exclusion of mode D from use is recommended for owners of "prone to overheating" engines with a volume of 2.5 liters. Dynamic driving is an additional benefit for them and serves to improve engine cooling!
Do not turn on mode D when the car is fully loaded (set the selector to 3).
When driving in traffic jams, when the movement is “ragged” and frequent gear changes occur, in order to prevent increased wear of automatic transmission parts, turn off mode D (set the selector to 3 or even to 2).
It is also useful to know that on an unheated box, top gear is not engaged and the torque converter is not blocked. Accordingly, a faulty thermostat or severe frost may prevent the inclusion of a higher gear, since the initial warm-up comes from the ATF radiator, which is located inside the engine coolant radiator reservoir. Normal automatic transmission mode is activated when the ATF temperature is more than 60 degrees.
Modes (1), (2), (3) allow you to use gears up to and including the specified one, but not higher. The modes may depend on the HOLD / MANU button (see "special automatic transmission modes").
3 - direct transmission with a gear ratio of 1. By transferring the selector to (3), we translate the automatic transmission into 3 speed mode, i.e. 1st, 2nd and 3rd gears are involved in the work and the torque converter is not blocked. Recommended for city driving.
The permitted maximum speed in this gear is 152-154 km/h.
2 - gear with a gear ratio of 1.55. As well as mode (3), it usually limits the transmission from above, that is, only 1st and 2nd gears are included.
However, on some models (mainly for American market, where as few additional buttons as possible for switching modes are traditionally displayed) when (2) is selected, the box itself goes into "winter mode" (see " Special Modes Automatic transmission"), i.e. it starts off from second gear and does not switch down.
Mode (2) is needed for driving on slippery surfaces, off-road or for towing heavy trailers. In addition, when driving on (2), more effective engine braking is provided when releasing the gas. Therefore, you can include this range to overcome a long slope or when driving on steep descent when engine braking is required to maintain control of the vehicle.
The permitted maximum speed in this gear is 91 km/h.
1 - special gear with a high gear ratio of 2.79 and a lock center differential on the all-wheel drive models. This mode is used when a large torque is required without high speed movement.
It is not recommended to drive in this mode for a long time. Also, turning in this mode can cause the center differential lock clutch to fail. It is recommended to use only when driving in a straight line at low speed, driving out of snow, sand and mud, on long, very steep hills and long descents, especially when driving with a trailer. In addition, in first gear, an effective engine braking mode is provided.
The permitted maximum speed in this gear is 44 km/h.
When limiting the switching range, try not to exceed the setting for maximum gear this range limiting speed;
Forced downshifting using the range selector can only be performed at vehicle speeds that do not exceed the maximum allowable for the limiting gear. Structurally, the transmission is designed in such a way that it involves the use of the first gear at speeds not exceeding 50 km / h with the gas pedal fully depressed (30 km / h with half pressure), and the second gear, respectively, at about 90 km / h with full and 60 km/h at half pressure. And switching from "3" to "2" is unacceptable at speeds above 70-80 km / h, so the range-limiting selector does not switch from the range "D-3" to "2-1" without pressing the blocking button. However, in modern automatic transmissions, downshifting is still corrected by the control controller and will not bring much harm even in the event of an invalid selector translation.
When stopping on a hill, do not attempt to hold the vehicle in stationary position by adjusting the traction force with the accelerator pedal. This can cause the automatic transmission to overheat and fail. Use the brakes to keep the vehicle on a slope.
Trying to pull out a stuck car by rocking, alternately including first gear, then gear reversing, in order to avoid damage to the automatic transmission, do not press the accelerator pedal hard (the speed when slipping wheels should not exceed 30 km / h on the speedometer.
AND MOST IMPORTANTLY!!! READ THE MANUAL FOR YOUR (!!!) CAR AND LEARN TO USE THEM!!!
If you moved from "mechanics" to "automatic", then ...
If you moved from "mechanics" to "automatic", then at first pay close attention to the "taming" of the left leg.
The fact is that when driving a car with an automatic transmission, the left leg is not involved (resting). And the acquired habit of depressing the clutch pedal when braking will be great to interfere.
Drivers who switched from "mechanics" to automatic transmission, all as one tell stories about how sometimes it is in critical situation they pressed the clutch pedal, which is absent on the "automatic".
The result is obvious - instead of the clutch under the left foot, there was a brake pedal, which was automatically squeezed out to the stop. The car got up "stake", and in best case only the passengers stared at the driver in bewilderment.
This experience also did not pass me by, but, fortunately, there were no negative consequences. At first, I had to hide my left leg under driver's seat. Over time, to my surprise, the alternation of driving "mechanics" and "machine" did not cause difficulties.
Therefore, at first it will not be superfluous to familiarize yourself with the “machine” on a safe section of the road. And how to work out the sharp movements of the right foot from the "gas" to the "brake" without squeezing the missing clutch.
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Acquaintance
On a car with an automatic transmission, a lever with a button is located at the location of the gear lever. It's more correct to call it automatic transmission mode selector.
There are also gears in an automatic box, but when driving, they are switched not by the driver, but in automatic mode. As a rule, a classic automatic transmission has 4 gears (but now you can increasingly see 5 and even 6-speed ones). The shifting moment can usually be felt during heavy acceleration.
The main modes of operation of the automatic transmission
To begin with, let's look at what operating modes are offered to the driver by such a "smart" box.
Mode "P" - Parking blocks the drive wheels. This position of the selector is equivalent to a tightened handbrake. As you might guess from the name, it is used for parking. In this mode, we start and turn off the engine.
Move selector to position "R" on a moving car is tantamount to putting a stick in the wheel. Such a mistake will lead to a costly breakdown of the automatic transmission.
Mode "R"- Reverse. As you might guess, this mode includes reverse gear.
Enable mode "R" it is also necessary at the moment when the car has completely stopped and is not moving forward.
"N" - Neutral. This is the next mode after "Reverse", is equivalent neutral gear at a normal checkpoint. "Neutral"- i.e. nothing is turned on, while the wheels are not connected to the engine and rotate freely.
If you decide to push or tow the car, then by itself you should turn on this particular mode.
Mode "D"- Drive (movement). The most favorite mode for any owner of a car with automatic transmission. Of course, this mode will allow us to move forward. Moreover, depending on the degree of pressing the gas pedal * and driving conditions, the gears in this mode will switch automatically, i.e. for you. And when the speed decreases, the “smart” gearbox will itself apply engine braking.
Another obvious plus "D" - this is that when you start moving uphill, the car will not roll back. What could be better! But do not flatter yourself too much - if the slope is steep, then the car can still slowly roll back.
* - the “gas” pedal is more correctly called the fuel control pedal or the accelerator pedal, or even the control pedal throttle valve. In the technical literature, it is the last two options that are more common.We examined the selector positions that are most often used in normal driving. Almost always on cars with automatic transmission there are and, which are used much less frequently. About them below.
- Previously, in almost all cars, the automatic transmission selector moved in “steps”.What, how and when to include?
You can move the selector knob to the appropriate mode only after:
- press the brake pedal.
- push the button on the selector lever handle*,(it is located on the side or in front, and sometimes on top).
Oh yes, you can only move the lever with the car running (turned the ignition key). And the habit of pressing the brake pedal before starting the engine will never be superfluous.
Those. Before you start driving you need:
1. With the engine running, press the brake pedal;
2. Drown the button on the handle of the selector lever;
3. Set the selector to the appropriate mode.
Before switching on "Drive" have to jump over two positions "R" And "N". But the way they are to us in this moment are not needed, it is not worth dwelling on them.
The necessary gear in the box itself turns on a second (two) after you set desired mode. At this point, the engine speed drops slightly (the sound of the engine becomes more deaf).
* - In some positions, the selector lever switches without additional pressing the brake and button. These modes can be enabled on the go. We will also mention them.Movement in the selected mode
And now the most interesting.
After switching on the gear, the car will not immediately go. You keep the brake pedal depressed. But as soon as you release it, the car will immediately start moving!
If you start moving uphill, then the car will only move when you add engine speed. Which is extremely inconvenient when you need to slightly move the car up the slope. In this case, you will have to press on the gas pedal and then quickly press the brake. The main thing here is not to overdo it with gas!
In mode "D" the car will move forward slowly. In mode "R"- back. On the "Neutrals" the vehicle will stop or roll down the slope of the road! This must be taken into account and do not release the brake ahead of time.
Those. in modes "D" And "R" the motor constantly pushes the car, even if the "gas" pedal is released.
When driving, the automatic transmission recognizes the driver’s commands precisely by moving the “gas” pedal. Smooth pressing will lead to smooth acceleration and leisurely gear changes.
But if you need intensive acceleration, for example, when overtaking, do not be afraid to press the "gas" all the way to the floor. For an automatic transmission, this is a command for the most intense acceleration. In this case, the box will first switch to a lower gear (the so-called kick-down mode). And only after that the car will really accelerate.
One of the disadvantages of a classic automatic transmission is about a second delay between the moment you press the “gas” pedal and the actual acceleration. This is quite a bit when driving slowly, but when overtaking, when every moment is sometimes precious, this time must be taken into account.
Stop
If you decide to stop, then everything is simple on the “machine”: press the brake pedal and stop at the right place. At the same time, there is no need to move the shift lever on the go.
If the stop is short, for example, before a traffic light, then the selector lever from the mode "D" better not to translate. You do not want to wear out the mechanisms of your favorite automatic transmission unnecessarily.
The brake pedal must be kept depressed after stopping.
In traffic jams and during long stops (more than half a minute), try to give the engine a break and not burn gasoline in vain. Otherwise, the engine is in "Drive" it will be too long to push the braked car unnecessarily, and this, of course, will take some of the fuel.
In such cases, you can enable "N"*, (at the same time, it is advisable not to release the brake pedal). Or turn on the mode "P", which will stop the wheels and allow the right leg to rest (I remind you that in this mode the car will not even roll down the hill).
From mode "D" on the "N" and back the selector lever jumps itself without additional pressing, which is very convenient, for example, when driving in a traffic jam, where frequent short stops are necessary.
Warnings!
- When driving a car with an automatic transmission, only the right foot is involved, which controls two pedals - “brakes” and “gas”. The left leg is not involved in the management at all.
- If the selector is not in position "R" get in the habit of keeping the brake pedal depressed, especially if the vehicle is on an incline (even if "Drive" your vehicle does not roll backwards).
- Do not enable mode "N" while moving!
I would like to prevent the inclusion "Neutrals" when the vehicle is moving, especially if you are rolling down a hill and braking with the brake pedal. It will not be possible to save a lot of fuel, and more heating of the brake pads is provided. Do not forget that when the vehicle speed is reduced in "Drive" Automatic transmission additionally includes engine braking.If you still decide to coast, then from the mode "D" on the "N" move the lever without pressing the selector lever button. Just before braking, return the mode "D" again without pressing a button. This will eliminate the erroneous inclusion "Reverse" or "Parking" and stop the machine more efficiently.
Almost always on cars with automatic transmission there is a button additional regime box work. We confine ourselves to describing winter mode, because it occurs most frequently.
Winter mode has different designations: "*", "HOLD", "W", "WINTER", "SNOW".
The task of the winter program is to eliminate wheel slip at the beginning of the movement and when changing gears.
For this, the operation of 1st gear is excluded altogether. The car starts moving immediately from 2 speeds. The inclusion of subsequent gears occurs at lower engine speeds, which allows for smaller acceleration drops and reduces the likelihood of skidding.
In summer, it is not recommended to use the winter mode on a road with good coverage. In this mode, the automatic transmission works with a greater load and heats up more than usual.
Additional selector positions. Submodes "D"
Depending on the modification, automatic transmissions almost always have additional selector positions:
Automatic transmission modes that limit gear shifts.
"3" or "S"- In this mode, automatic transmissions will not shift above 3rd gear. This selector position is usually used for non-standard driving conditions, for example, on moderate ascents or descents, etc.
I sometimes use this mode outside the city at high speeds when I need to quickly overtake a loaded car. Mode "Drive" in such situations gives a rather sluggish overclocking. In mode "3" overtaking takes place at high speed engine and at the same time no time is wasted on switching the next 4th gear. (At high rpm, the engine develops more power and accelerates the car better).
Those. for example, you were following a truck at a speed of 70-80 km/h for "Drive" and then you have the opportunity to overtake him. Move the selector lever to "3", squeeze out the "gas" and start overtaking. After completing the maneuver, without pressing the button, move the lever back to the position "D".
And sometimes there are situations when you were moving in fourth gear in "D" and also decided to overtake. You press the "gas", the automatic transmission switches to a step lower (kick-down mode). But for some reason, you changed your mind about overtaking and slightly loosened the pedal, the automatic transmission shifts back to fourth. But here again there is an opportunity to make a maneuver, and you again squeeze out the “gas”. The automatic transmission again turns on the third, which takes precious time.
In such a situation, it is also preferable to advance the selector to "3". This will not allow the “automatic” to change gears out of place once again and will reduce the overtaking time.
To what speed can you accelerate in "3" mode?
The speed limit of 3rd gear depends on the car, but the speed of 130-140 km / h is usually not a limit for it. The tachometer needle will tell you everything, the main thing is not to start it in the red zone.
"2"- In this mode, the automatic transmission does not shift above 2nd gear. The speed limit of this mode is approximately 70-80 km / h. Usually used on fairly steep slopes and slippery surfaces.
"L" or "one"- Mode for heavy driving conditions: very steep slopes, off-road, etc. The box will only work in the lowest gear. Above 30-40 km/h "L",(Low) better not to overclock.
Attention! Accidental activation of the "L" or "2" mode at high speed will cause the car to slow down sharply, which can lead to a skid.
All of these modes can be used not only on climbs, but also on descents, where intensive engine braking is required.
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For a description of the operating modes, click on the corresponding picture of the type of automatic transmission.
Many automatic transmissions, in addition to the main selector positions, may have a groove for the so-called manual gearshift mode. Such boxes are called selective (car manufacturers give them various names: Tiptronic, Steptronic, etc.).
"M" - Manual mode selective automatic transmission
To switch to manual mode, just move the selector to the position provided for this. "M" left or right "Drive". This mode can be turned on even on the go, which will lead to fixation of the included gear.
By moving the selector up to position «+» , you change gear one step higher, and by moving the selector down «-» one step lower. At the same time, the "gas" pedal can not be released.
Usually, the automatic transmission, even in manual mode, insures the driver against erroneous switching on and does not allow the box to work in prohibitive modes. Those. pregnant "M" gears can sometimes either not turn on, or switch themselves, for example, when the car slows down.
This mode is used quite rarely, for example, when overtaking or when driving on difficult areas roads: slippery surfaces, deep snow, steep ascents, descents, etc.
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What does the automatic transmission not like?
1. An unheated automatic transmission does not like loads and high speeds
Even if it's summer outside, for the first few kilometers (or at least 5-10 minutes), try to move at low speed, without sudden accelerations. Wait for the oil in the engine and gearbox to warm up to an acceptable temperature. Do not forget that the box warms up many times slower than the engine.
And in winter, before driving, you can additionally drive the oil in the box by alternately moving the selector knob to different modes, holding the lever on each of them. You can even stand a little on the mode turned on for movement. The brake pedal must, of course, be depressed.
Also in the cold season for more quick warm-up The automatic transmission can be driven for the first few minutes with the winter mode button on.
2. Avoid off-road.
Cars in general, and the "automatic" in particular, do not like wheel slip. For this reason, avoid hard depressing the gas pedal on uneven surfaces.
If your car is stuck, don't even try to drive "Drive"! For this there is "L" or "one" broadcast. But first, if possible, avoiding wheel slip, try to drive back along your own track.
Off-road driving is a different story, but it’s better to work with a shovel once again, jack up a car or attract someone, than put pressure on the “gas” with the hope of a miracle.
4. Do not tow heavy trailers on cars with automatic transmission!
Due to the peculiarities of the device, the “automatic” categorically does not like a large load (the gearbox begins to overheat and wear out excessively). Therefore, it is better to entrust the towing of another car or a heavy trailer to a mechanical colleague.
3. Do not tow faulty car with automatic transmission!
If possible, do not carry the “automatic” on the “tie”, in the sense of being in tow. But if there are no other options, then once again take a look at the operating instructions for your automatic transmission.
Most likely there will be hard limits. Towing an "automatic" is usually allowed at a speed of no more than 30-50 km / h and at a distance of no more than 30-50 km (to avoid overheating).
It is desirable to tow the "automatic" with the engine running, because. in this case, normal lubrication of the gearbox mechanisms will occur.
Attention: some cars with automatic transmission are not subject to towing at all!
Why does a car with automatic transmission need a handbrake?
My observations showed that the owners of "automatic machines" practically do not use the parking brake on their cars. When parking, use the mode "Parking", for short stops - the brake pedal.
But if you look into the rules for operating a car with automatic transmission, then you can see something like this: “Always use parking brake. Do not rely on the shift of the selector to the "P" position to prevent the vehicle from moving.
Why does the manufacturer not trust "Parking" I honestly don't know. Personally, this mode has never let me down and has always conscientiously fixed the car even on steep slopes without using the handbrake.
And the forgotten handbrake had cases that failed. For example, I really remember the case when in winter I could not move the car because of frozen brake pads. (In winter, such tricks sometimes occur after washing a car or driving through deep puddles).
My friend had the same problem in the summer due to "rusted" brake discs when he left his car with the handbrake tightened while on vacation.
For this reason, when parking for a long time on a steep slope, it is preferable not to use the handbrake, but to put something under the wheels, or rest them against a curb stone located on the side, after turning the steering wheel in the right direction.
Without a doubt, the handbrake can and should be used in the following cases:
- additional fixation of the car during stops with the engine running, especially if you decide to leave the passenger compartment.
- for reliable braking of the vehicle, for example, when changing a wheel, and in similar situations.
- It is also advisable to tighten the handbrake when stopping on a steep slope before setting the mode. "P". Just differently on steep slopes selector with "Parking" moves (pulls out) with excessive force*.
In such situations, before driving, do not forget to first remove the selector from "Parking" and only after that loosen the handbrake.
And don't forget to release the parking brake before driving!**
* - On slopes mode lock "Parking", locking the drive wheels, is loaded much more strongly.
** - The habit of checking the removed handbrake before starting off from the drivers of "machine guns" is usually absent. Involved in any need hand brake some people completely forget about it. The red light signaling on the instrument panel is sometimes noticed quite late.
Three disadvantages of a classic automatic transmission
1. We have already talked about the “thoughtfulness” of the automatic transmission with sharp pressures on the “gas”.
2. The next big minus of the classic "machine" is a loss in acceleration dynamics and in comparison with mechanics. And this difference is especially evident during acceleration. The more intense it is, the "automatic" will gobble up more fuel compared to mechanical box. In suburban driving, as a rule, the appetite of both cars is almost identical.
I think it is superfluous to remind about the preference for smooth accelerations and smooth decelerations.
3. About the exorbitant cost of a new automatic transmission and the repair of a faulty one, I think everyone has heard a lot. But we must pay tribute to the manufacturers of such complex units - breakdowns of "machines" with CORRECT OPERATION are very rare.
Automatic transmission and manual transmission who wins?
Progress does not stand still, and more and more often began to appear automatic transmissions, devoid of many of the disadvantages of their older counterparts. Such types of boxes as "variator" and "robotic gearbox" became widespread.
Some of them managed not only to win over the “mechanics” in acceleration time, but at the same time even reduce fuel consumption.
Without going into details, I will only say that any checkpoint has its pluses and minuses. Today, everyone can choose exactly what suits him the most.
But the trend is obvious: the "automatic" is increasingly replacing the classic "mechanics".
Note: in this article we examined the control methods of a classic automatic transmission. The modes of operation of the robotic box and the variator are very similar to those described above, with the exception of various nuances associated with the peculiarity of the design of these units.