Today, we’re brought you 15 things you should never do in an automatic car which will improve your cars life by multiple years.
1. Running on Empty
In most cars, the fuel pump resides inside the gas tank, relying on fuel to stay cool. Running low on fuel reduces this cooling effect, shortening the pump’s life and leading to costly repairs.
Additionally, running close to empty stirs up sediment at the tank’s bottom, potentially clogging your fuel filter and damaging other parts of your fuel system. Keep your tank above a quarter full to protect your pump and performance.
2. Coasting in Neutral
Coasting in neutral, especially downhill, may seem like a fuel-saving trick, but modern cars are smarter. They cut fuel flow when slowing down in gear, making coasting counterproductive.
It also reduces your control in emergencies and puts extra wear on the drivetrain when shifting back into drive. Plus, without engine braking, your brakes wear out faster.
3. Driving Through Deep Water
Regular cars are vulnerable to deep water due to low transmission vents. If water enters, it mixes with transmission fluid, creating a damaging sludge that can destroy clutch plates and lead to transmission failure. Avoid deep water—it’s a small effort to prevent big repairs.
4. Leaving the Car in Drive at Stoplights
Keeping the car in drive while stopped creates unnecessary heat buildup in the torque converter, especially on hot days. Shifting to neutral helps the fluid circulate freely, reducing strain and prolonging the transmission’s life.
5. Not Warming Up in Cold Weather
In cold weather, transmission fluid thickens, making it harder to flow. This causes sluggish shifts and strains the transmission. Warm up your car before driving to ensure the fluid circulates smoothly.
6. Resting Your Hand on the Gear Selector
Resting your hand on the gear selector might seem harmless, but it applies constant pressure to internal components, causing wear over time. Always keep your hands off the shifter unless actively using it.
7. Ignoring Dashboard Warning Lights
Pay attention to warning lights like the transmission temperature, oil pressure, and battery warnings. These signals alert you to overheating, lubrication issues, or charging problems, which can lead to expensive repairs if ignored.
8. Turning Off the Car Before It’s in Park
Always shift to park before turning off your car. Failing to do so disconnects the input shaft, disrupting proper torque converter function. It may not harm the engine immediately but can cause long-term issues.
9. Hard Acceleration
Launching your car aggressively stresses the engine, mounts, suspension, and transmission. While occasional hard acceleration is fine, making it a habit can lead to wear and costly repairs.
10. Shifting Into Park Before a Full Stop
Throwing your car into park while it’s moving strains the parking pawl, a small lever designed to hold the car in place when stationary. This habit can damage the locking pin, output shaft, or even snap the pawl.
11. Neglecting Transmission Fluid Changes
Transmission fluid breaks down over time, losing its effectiveness. Check it regularly—bright red with little to no smell is ideal. If it’s brown or smells burnt, it’s time for a change. Regular changes keep friction low and prevent damage.
12. Skipping the Handbrake When Parking
The parking pawl isn’t designed to hold the car’s full weight, especially on inclines. Always use the handbrake to prevent strain on the transmission and keep your car safely in place.
13. Idling in Drive for Too Long
Extended idling in drive can overheat your transmission and dilute engine oil, especially in diesel engines. Turn off the car if you’ll be waiting for a while to avoid unnecessary wear.
14. Shifting Between Drive and Reverse While Moving
Shifting gears without stopping puts unnecessary strain on the transmission. Modern cars have safeguards, but older vehicles can suffer serious damage. Always come to a full stop before changing gears.
15. Being Aggressive When Stuck in Snow
Spinning your wheels when stuck can overheat your transmission. Instead, try gentle movements, use traction aids like sand or cat litter, and clear snow around the tires. For SUVs, switch to low-range settings for better control.
Bonus Tip: Protect Your Car from Sunlight
Parking in direct sunlight can overheat your transmission and dry out important seals, causing fluid to break down faster. Use shade or a windshield sun shade to protect not only the transmission but also your car’s paint, headlights, and tires.
