About this Video

• Video Title: How to drive an automatic car - includes hills
• Channel: Conquer Driving
• Speakers: (The transcript doesn't name the speaker.)
• Duration: 00:11:22

Introduction

This video provides a comprehensive guide on driving an automatic car, specifically addressing starting the car, understanding gear selectors, using handbrakes, and navigating hills. The video aims to equip viewers with the necessary knowledge and skills to confidently operate an automatic vehicle.

Key Takeaways

• Starting the Car: Automatics typically start only when in park or neutral; some require pressing the brake pedal. The ignition and engine start in two separate steps.
• Gear Selector: Understanding the gear selector (P-Park, R-Reverse, N-Neutral, D-Drive, S-Sport) is crucial for safe operation. Some cars allow manual gear changes via a button and lever or steering wheel paddles.
• Handbrake Operation: The video explains how to release and engage both electronic and traditional handbrakes.
• Driving on Hills: Automatic cars simplify hill driving; the car won't roll backward unexpectedly when in Drive and stopped on an incline.
• Automatic Transmission Types: The video describes four types of automatic transmissions (torque converter, dual-clutch, single-clutch, and CVT), highlighting their pros and cons regarding fuel efficiency, smoothness, and reliability.

Based solely on the provided transcript, here's a list of actionable steps described in the video:

1. Starting the car: Switch the ignition on (often requiring the car to be in Park or Neutral, and sometimes pressing the brake pedal). Then, turn the key to start the engine (sometimes requiring the brake pedal to be pressed).

2. Understanding gear selector: Learn the meaning of each gear position (P-Park, R-Reverse, N-Neutral, D-Drive, S-Sport). If applicable to your vehicle, learn how to use the manual gear shift option (either via a button and lever or steering wheel paddles).

3. Using handbrake: Learn how to release and engage your car's handbrake. This differs depending on whether it's an electronic or traditional handbrake.

4. Driving on Hills: When driving uphill, understand that the car will not roll back if you keep your foot on the brake until you are ready to proceed. The automatic transmission will prevent backward movement.

5. Driving on flat surfaces: Press the brake pedal, move the gear selector to "D," release the handbrake, and gently release the brake to start moving. Use the gas pedal to accelerate and the brake pedal to slow down or stop.

6. Stopping the car: When stopped, keep your foot on the brake, engage the handbrake, put the car into Park (P), and turn off the ignition.

7. Manual Gear Changes (if applicable): Learn how to use the steering wheel paddles or the gear selector's manual mode (if your car has these features) to change gears manually for a sportier driving experience or better control on hills.

8. Check your Owner's Manual: Consult your car's owner's manual to understand the specific features and operation of your automatic transmission. This is particularly important to understand the specific type of transmission in your car and any unique safety features or operational characteristics.

9. Obtain proper insurance: Before practicing driving, ensure you have adequate insurance coverage, particularly if practicing in a car not owned by you. The video mentions specific insurance providers as options.