Learning how to drive an automatic car is generally simpler than learning a manual vehicle because you do not have to operate a clutch pedal or change gears manually. The car handles gear changes for you while you concentrate on steering, braking and controlling your speed.
However, a few habits are important to learn, especially if you are driving in Nigerian traffic, on hills or on busy roads for the first time.
Understand the Automatic Gear Positions
Before driving, familiarise yourself with the gear selector.
Most automatic cars have:
- P (Park): Used when the vehicle is parked.
- R (Reverse): Used to move backwards.
- N (Neutral): Disconnects the drive from the wheels.
- D (Drive): Used for normal forward driving.
Some vehicles also have positions such as S, L, 1, 2 or M. Their functions vary between vehicles, so check the owner’s manual if you are unfamiliar with them.
Use Your Right Foot for the Pedals
An automatic car normally has two pedals:
- Brake
- Accelerator
Use your right foot for both pedals.
Keep your left foot away from the pedals. This helps prevent accidentally pressing the brake and accelerator at the same time and makes your pedal control more consistent.
How to Start an Automatic Car
Before starting:
- Sit comfortably and adjust the seat.
- Adjust the mirrors.
- Fasten your seat belt.
- Make sure the gear selector is in P.
- Press the brake pedal.
- Start the engine.
- Check your surroundings before moving.
Some automatic vehicles require the brake pedal to be pressed before the engine will start.
How to Move an Automatic Car
Once the engine is running:
- Keep your foot firmly on the brake.
- Select D.
- Release the parking brake when appropriate.
- Check your mirrors and surroundings.
- Release the brake gradually.
- Allow the car to begin moving.
- Apply the accelerator gently when you are ready.
Many automatic cars will move slowly when you release the brake. You do not necessarily need to accelerate immediately, particularly when manoeuvring in a car park or moving slowly in traffic.
How to Stop an Automatic Car
To stop normally, gradually press the brake pedal.
At a traffic light or temporary stop, keep the car stationary with the brake.
For longer stops, follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations rather than repeatedly shifting between different gear positions.
When parking:
- Bring the car to a complete stop.
- Keep your foot on the brake.
- Apply the parking brake.
- Select P.
- Turn off the engine.
The exact parking procedure can vary slightly between vehicles, especially on steep slopes.
How to Reverse an Automatic Car
Never select R while the car is still moving forward.
Bring the vehicle to a complete stop first.
Then:
- Keep your foot on the brake.
- Select R.
- Check your mirrors and blind spots.
- Look around the vehicle.
- Release the brake slowly.
- Reverse gently.
Use the brake to control your speed rather than relying heavily on the accelerator.
Driving an Automatic Car in Traffic
Automatic cars can be convenient in Nigerian city traffic because you don’t have to repeatedly operate a clutch and change gears.
In slow traffic, avoid constantly pressing and releasing the accelerator aggressively. Maintain a safe gap from the vehicle ahead and use the brake smoothly.
Don’t become distracted simply because the car is easier to operate. You still need to monitor motorcycles, pedestrians, buses, potholes and sudden stops around you.
Driving an Automatic Car on a Hill
Hill starts can feel strange when you are new to automatic cars.
Keep the brake applied while stopped and select the appropriate drive position. When you are ready to move, release the brake gradually and accelerate smoothly.
Some vehicles have hill-start assistance or other features designed to reduce rolling, but you should not assume every automatic car has the same system.
Avoid using the accelerator excessively to hold the vehicle in place on a slope.
What Not to Do With an Automatic Car
Avoid these common mistakes:
Don’t Shift From D to R While Moving
Always stop completely before changing between forward and reverse.
Don’t Use Both Feet
Using one foot for the brake and another for the accelerator can make pedal control less predictable.
Don’t Put the Car in P While Moving
Park is intended for a stationary vehicle. Do not select it while the car is moving.
Don’t Rest Your Hand on the Gear Selector Unnecessarily
Once you select the appropriate gear, concentrate on driving rather than constantly moving the selector.
Don’t Ignore Warning Lights
An automatic transmission warning light or unusual shifting should be investigated rather than ignored.
How to Become Comfortable With an Automatic Car
If you are a new driver, start somewhere quiet and safe.
Practise:
- Starting and stopping
- Smooth acceleration
- Steering
- Reversing
- Parking
- Turning
- Using mirrors
- Controlling the car at low speed
Once you’re comfortable, gradually practise on busier roads and different road conditions.
If you’re learning in Lagos, you will eventually need to become comfortable with traffic, junctions, motorcycles, pedestrians, speed bumps and changing road conditions.
Automatic Cars Still Need Regular Maintenance
Learning to drive an automatic car is only one part of responsible vehicle ownership.
The transmission, engine, brakes, tyres, battery, cooling system and other components need proper maintenance.
If the car starts jerking, hesitating when changing gear, producing unusual noises or showing a transmission warning light, have it inspected instead of continuing to drive normally.
Before Taking an Automatic Car on a Long Trip
Before an interstate journey, check:
- Tyre pressure
- Spare tyre
- Engine oil
- Coolant
- Brakes
- Battery
- Lights
- Wipers
- Air conditioning
- Warning lights
- Fuel level
A few basic checks before departure can help reduce the chances of an avoidable problem during the journey.
Travo.ng can also help with travel and mobility arrangements such as transport coordination, vehicle-related logistics and trip planning, making it easier to organise your journey while you focus on getting safely to your destination.
