In the US, where most cars are automatics, as you're probably aware, what they teach in driving school is pretty simple. If you're driving, the transmission stays in drive. That includes waiting at lights and in traffic. Park is to be used when you park, which is pretty self-explanatory, and neutral is just there in case your car breaks down. Now, there aren't very many single-clutch robotized manual transmission cars over here, so the advice about shifting to neutral isn't really mentioned. For dual-clutch transmissions, they automatically shift into neutral after a period of waiting so it is unnecessary to shift into neutral when waiting. The only time it's generally recommended to shift into park while waiting is if you know it's going to be a long weight, say waiting at a railroad crossing for a 5 mile long freight train to pass.
And that's how most of the world drives anyway, and that's why manufacturers design transmissions to match this style of driving. For example, if you shift into neutral in some cars, the start stop feature may not work or something else. In other words, people's driving habits shape the design of cars and that's really how it should be used.
It's very different in England because our roads are very small and crowded and you cant really drive more than 12 seconds without stopping for buses, pedestrians, mini roundabouts, lights etc. In Yankeeland, you can drive for hours without ever even hitting traffic lights etc. So it's more important to use the gears and things properly here or else you wear out your car much faster.
If the government keeps pushing this crazy 'net zero' rubbish, soon all cars will be electric/automatic and the manual gearbox will be assigned to the dustbin of history.
..... Do you know Jesus Christ can set you free from sins and save you from hell today Jesus Christ is the only hope in this world no other gods will lead you to heaven There is no security or hope with out Jesus Christ in this world come and repent of all sins today Today is the day of salvation come to the loving savior Today repent and do not go to hell Come to Jesus Christ today Jesus Christ is only way to heaven Repent and follow him today seek his heart Jesus Christ can fill the emptiness he can fill the void Heaven and hell is real cone to the loving savior today Today is the day of salvation tomorrow might be to late come to the loving savior today Romans 6.23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. John 3:16-21 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. 18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. Mark 1.15 15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel. 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. Hebrews 11:6 6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Jesus
I passed my test today first time and I just wanted to say thank you for all your videos!! I’ve been watching them for weeks and you’ve really helped me get out of my own head and be a better and safer driver. I wouldn’t have passed without them!
NathanTiffanyBroome. Don't get too big-headed. It doesn't matter whether you passed the first time or not; it doesn't make you more qualified to drive.
@@redblade8160thanks for the unnecessary and unasked for advice, random stranger on the internet. I completely agree with you on one thing- it doesn’t matter at all if you pass first time. But you know what? I’m still happy that I did.
I am a Retired , yes Old Guy , Heavy Articulated Vehicle Driver . THIS was an Excellent Breakdown of the differences in Transmission types . And I 100% agree with you . Having proper control of the Vehicle is all that actually matters .
A few posters have commented that they have passed their tests very recently, an examiner once told one of my students that passing merely means you are considered safe enough to continue learning without being supervised 😎
I'm a driving instructor. I tell my students that learning good craft is the priority, not passing the test. When they pass, I tell them that this is when the learning really starts.
Some advice I can give to learner drivers after 42 years of driving. Don't be an offensive driver, be an defensive driver. Be kind to other drivers and give way and you will most likely be as safe as you can. Watch out for folks, don't get distracted and remember that you are driving a hunk of metal that can take life and limb. Some of the highest death rates on UK roads are young boys between 17 - 19. A car is not a toy and it's not a Formula 1 racer. Be kind to other drivers, slow down ,don't be selfish and behave as the road only belongs to you! Share the few roads that we have left and we will all arrive alive.
@@user-ng1eo4rr8n True, but according to stats most of them are from stolen cars (joyriders who won't care about being flashed by a speed camera), or uninsured drivers so most of them won't have a licence or take a test anyway.
Always park the car using the handbrake and then put it into Park. Steep hills can lock the transmission up if you do not apply the hand brake first. Good video
@@edwardfletcher7790 'Locked up, is the term he's using for the trans to be somewhat jammed in park. On a steep hill if you put the trans in park and release the foot brake, the car will roll a little until the park pawl engages, the weight of the car is now against that pawl making it hard to pull the gear stick back out of park. By using the hand brake first, it minimises the chance of the shifter jamming. I spent many years rebuilding transmissions and this is one issue that I've had to educate people about a few times. On steep hills I usually angle and roll the front wheel onto the curb and then apply the brake and park especially when facing uphill as some hand brakes don't work so well backwards.
Great video, I've been teaching on automatics for quite a few years now and I always advise my pupils to use neutral when waiting in traffic or stoped at pedestrian crossings as this will reduce the very dangerous risk of the vehicle shooting forward if the accelerator is mistakenly pressed resulting in devastating consicqenses, this has also happened in car parks... I also advise that when passengers are boarding or alighting select neutral or park this will make the vehicle safe for everyone.
Great video, and as someone who’s only driven automatics rarely in 60 years of driving, I learned a lot. One thing not mentioned though is the brake lights of cars, and automatic cars especially, if the brake pedal is recommended to be kept depressed when stopped. For drivers immediately behind a car, especially at night, the effect of doing this can be dazzlingly bright brake lights partially ruining a driver’s night vision. At the very least it’s inconsiderate and certainly not good driving practice. Surely any automatic car, whatever category it falls into, should be capable of being stopped temporarily with some system of brake system selected ‘on’, but which doesn’t damage or strain the drive system, yet still allows the brake lights to be ‘off’. In manual cars, the handbrake serves this purpose very effectively, but ultimately, whatever the car, it’s all down to the standard of tuition and driving. I just wish more drivers were understanding of just how bright their brake lights are when you’re sitting behind them in stationary traffic. Thanks again for the video!
@@JAMESWUERTELE I'm not getting into an argument, and neither am I stupid. Good driving practice is not to sit in traffic at night (or really any time at all) with the brake lights on. Some cars have very bright brake lights, others aren't too bad, but, whatever, it's not good practice, or considerate.
@@chrisholland4633 There's always one isn't there. I came on to post the exact point you've made and am in total agreement. The rear brake lights on Mercedes for example are very vivid and lit for minutes at a time i.e. at traffic lights are really uncomfortable. I came to the conclusion most people in automatics are plain lazy. But this of course is stupid 😞
that is not stupid he is correct sitting behind someone at night with brake lights on can be very dazzling more so with the newer cars that have LED. lights.
My DSG car is set by myself to automatically apply the hand brake when I stop by using the footbrake then releases as I drive off, it's brilliant as I don't have to keep my foot on the brake to stop it creeping forward, it is overridable though and that's useful when parking in a tight space, the stop start I turn off as it does my head in especially at junctions when you may need a quick maneuver to join traffic. Well presented vlog, thanks.
Very good video. I was explaining to my partner how putting my car into park at traffic lights is bad for a different reason: the technology! When you put the car into park it presumes your parking. So when the lights go green, and you select drive, if there is a car in front of you, in my car you get a warning because you've just selected drive but the car thinks you've made a mistake. The result is that as you go to move off, you're restricted to "parking speed" or "parking torque", as in: I can put the pedal down substantially but the car feels like it's broken until it realises the car in front is also moving and we aren't about to accidentally drive into another parked car. I also noticed that even on the foot brake there's a tiny amount of torque being applied in 1st gear, ever so tiny, and that it makes no difference if I use the foot brake or parking brake since that auto disengages; but the big no-no for using the parking brake when driving that seems to be missing from the video is that it puts strain on the electric motor that powers the brake when you are constantly engaging and disengaging it. And it's slower to disengage than the foot brake. I've heard folk tales of people wearing out the parking brake motor by using it at traffic lights for a few years, when it should last many many years. Opponents to the foot brake cite the Highway Code and dazzling people behind at night, which is unfortunate... but when the car is in self drive it will hold the brake lights on, that's the future in reality.
I switched to an automatic after a year of lessons in a manual and for someone with learning difficulties, it has really helped. Would love to see more automatic centric videos.
I have severe ADHD learnt to drive a manual. Millennials are just lazy and give up at the drop of a hat. Harden up boy because life is going kick you in the balls like a horse.
In the USA, the parking brake is (mostly) referred to as the 'emergency brake'. Most American drivers NEVER use it and rely exclusively on 'P' (though I know someone will provide an example to claim I am wrong!). I didn't know about the hill parking point, though - very useful, as my driveway is on a steep slope 😃
P (or setting 1st or reverse gear on a manual) just locks the gear, the parking brake also locks the rear wheels. Usually you should do both, especially when parking on an incline. The parking brake is usually an electronic operated brake that can be on or off. The hand brake is operated with the hand and can also be used to initiate drifting (hand brake turns) and to slow down the car in case the main brakes are not available (e.g. when you have the engine off and the vacuum is depleted) - just be careful, the braking action is limited.
It had been weeks since I got my first automatic that I was trying to get to understand the right way to park and wait in traffic. Stumbled upon this video. It is just perfect. Answered all my queries. Specifically, I was even more interested to know how automatic stop/start relates to waiting in traffic. Wonderfully answered. Keep up the good work!
Auto stop-start was only devised my manufacturers to get round emissions levels so the best thing you could do is turn it off or even disable it completely. On some cars it's just a module that is connected to the battery via the power leads; you just need to unplug it. In traffic just hold on the footbrake if stopped at lights for a few seconds or use the parking brake if stopping for longer. Contrary to what the video says, leaving the car in drive with the parking brake on will not damage your car's engine or gearbox, that's only the case with very old autos.
Firstly, thank you Richard for your detailed and well produced videos. I’ve learned soo much from your channel, I started driving about three months ago and I must tell you, your tutorials helped a lot. I bought a VW Golf 7 DSG, I must say it’s pretty fool proof. Throughout this video I got the sense that my car is really well designed because its safety features avoid a bulk of the mistakes you covered in this video. In the absence of these safety features, I probably would have damaged the car. Thanks you from South Africa. 🇿🇦 😉
i have still about a year untill i can take my driving test, but thanks to your videos the time i already spend driving makes me feel more confident that i can pass it easily, and im getting close to my mom's driving level even tho she had her licence for about 15 years now, so thank you Richard, I'm sure I will check your videos when taking my course to impress my instructors
Wise advice, but in particular, as you are in a Corolla, the last option to use is N - as advised in the owners manual, it isolates the battery charging, and in the long term would result in them discharging. It’ll probably warn you if that happens. That one also has the “brake hold” option, which works well, as long as you’re happy with the brake lights being on. Using the P mode with the transmission being locked allows them to be off during a long stop - but then it will temporarily display the reverse lights when shifting through to D, which might scare someone behind. Swings and roundabouts with that one. As it is, the one you are in is pretty foolproof compared with the old manual gearbox cars with real “handbrakes”, especially on rising gradients.
Ha! Yes. I hate it when the reversing light comes on in front of me in traffic. Am I about to be hit by an idiot*, or is it someone driving an auto who doesn't appreciate what they're doing. *And there are idiots out there who would reverse into you and then wonder what happened...
I'm trying to work out why putting the car into neutral would isolate the battery charging. Surely the alternator runs independently of the transmission and should charge the battery all the time the engine is running, whether in park, neutral, drive or reverse. Or is there something that I am missing here? Why would Toyota design their car so putting it into neutral cuts the power from the alternator?
@@LG-cz6ls Much worse that brief flash of the reversing lights are the people who sit stationary in a queue with their brake lights dazzling the driver behind - especially at night. That's why I always go into neutral and hold the car on the handbrake if I anticipate I'lbe stopped for more than a couple of seconds.
No, it does not. There is no independent alternator for producing 12V dc in a Toyota Hybrid. There are two Moor Generators (MG1 & MG2), one being the traction motor, and the other either operates as a generator from the engine (when it runs), or the starter motor when required. They are variable frequency 3-phase ac ones. The high voltage dc connection to the traction battery is isolated in N mode (which is only there to comply with older mechanical transmission kit), and the engine can’t be run when N is selected. There is normally a constant feed at high voltage from either MG1 or MG2 to the 12V via a converter set when the power is switched on. Incidentally, the 12V battery does not start this engine at all, unlike a traditional car engine, and it is quite a small one by comparison. No separate starter or alternator at all.@@Mortimer50145
@@Mortimer50145 Brake lights on is irritating, yes. But it's just a brake light. It's not as if someone is driving around with their fog light on. Manual car, handbrake, neutral, sorted. Thinking some wazzock is about to reverse into you is worse.
very informative! I have been driving for donkey's years, but only recently bought a 25 year old Jag which is auto. I learnt something today. Very professional. Good luck to you young man!
A good reason for using neutral and the handbrake at night is to avoid dazzling the driver behind you with high intensity red lights. I am amazed nobody ever mentions this point.
@@nadebeef6529 I disagree, I do not have an astigmatism, but do find looking at the large bright brake lights that are on cars nowadays uncomfortable when it is raining and stopped at traffic lights. I have posted to this effect on this post elsewhere. A lot of drivers do not know it is illegal to have rear fog lights on in the rain. They must only be used in poor visibility due to fog, as their name suggests. This is because of the glare they cause to drivers in the rain, not because of any sight defects of other drivers. Another problem is drivers do not check that all their lights are working properly. Many times I see drivers with one headlight not working properly. This puts extra power to the other side and causes dazzling to on coming vehicles and/or they could be mistaken for a motorcycle by other road users creating a problem with judging the width of the offending vehicle.
@nadebeef6529 Not at all. I have good eyes and It really annoys me when people use the footbrake instead of the handbrake. The glare IS annoying. Next time you're behind someone at night, take note of that glare and then when they release the brake, the difference is very noticeable. As a side issue, using the handbrake keeps all the parts working and less likely to seize up.
The way the gearbox works can vary between even very similar cars. Some DSGs need to be put into neutral when the car is stationary, some don't. Great advice about the parking pawl. 👍
As many CVT gearboxes have an electric powder clutch it is wise to use neutral when standing still for more than a few seconds, it is just like a manual clutch in not liking standing still in gear.
Oh Richard, you're national treasure! I'm looking to get back into driving and am planning on getting a cheap old used automatic car in the near future, so you probably just saved my clutch! 😂I learned to drive in Germany years ago, and haven't sat in the drivers seat in a good 7 years. I've been binging your videos prepare, so thank you so much for all the educational content you're creating. Roundabouts in particular were an area of concern to me, as we barely have any in Germany, but I feel I have a good understanding of them now.
Those that come in (near to you) from the Right 'Always' have Right of Way !!! And be a courteous Driver : Indicate your 'intentions' by using 'Your Indicators promptly and concisely' on Entering, going Around, and 'Preparing to Leave (Exiting) the Road' Off the Roundabout ! Nothing worse than seeing a Driver not (knowing) what they need to show others. If in doubt 'use more Indicators' than none at all !. . . Just saying. 👍 Saw someone enter into a Roundabout (turn Right !!!(thus going Wrong Way (like going against a Clock !) Turned out it was an American (Service Base near by). . Everybody sounded their Horns and got his attention by Waving madly. Luckily no harm or damage was done. 😳 If you get 'flustered' either do another Full Around (Again) indicating Right until you calmly see your 'Exit.' Or turn Off the Roundabout, by any next Left, calmly compose your 'Required Turnoff' do a turn about manoeuvre. Re-Enter said Roundabout and ensure you 'Select' the correct Route (Exit Road !) Nothing wrong with Red Face Embarrassment as long as you Drive Safely !!! Been Driving for over x35 Yrs. Good Luck. Sure I could not Drive the German 'Autobahn'. 🙃
Great video as usual. I passed last November and your videos helped me pass. Even now I still watch because not only is it entertaining to watch, I still feel like I can never learn enough when it comes to driving and being safe on the road. Thank you for your videos.
I enjoyed your presentation. You may consider the impact on a following motorcycle during inclement weather with prolonged use of footbrake (brake lights) causing dazzle. I speak from experience; despite every effort to maintain a clear visor and maintaining a safe following distance, safety may be compromised, especially at night in the rain. This is the difference between learning to pass a test and learning a life skill.
On my old semi automatic,ASG from Peugeot,when i was waiting on a stoplight 50+ seconds(i usually saw the timer on the stoplight) i would put the car on N with the handbreak on. And 4-5 seconds before green release the break and put it fast in A. Never had a problem with the gearbox in 218.000KM :)
Thanks for the describing the differences. I've been driving for nearly 40 years and watched this because I've never driven a proper DSG and wanted more info. Currently drive a CVT and basic automated manual (Smart). Two points I would make; Especially in winter, I don't apply the handbrake, if I'm leaving the car for long periods as the the brakes can and do seize on. 2 putting the car in park in traffic and being shunted from behind will be a harder impact. There are other points but this channel is for learners so, I respect that.
Spot on about putting the car in park resulting in a harder impact; if it's not on the movement of the car will absorb some of the impact and could result in less severe injuries. At traffic lights, assuming the road is level I usually hold the car on the footbrake, therefore showing the brake lights, until the car behind me has stopped then put the car in neutral and leave the brake off.
So as a general conclusion (when waiting in an automatic): - Leaving it in DRIVE with handbrake ON and the foot OFF the footbrake is often a bad idea (roasts your clutch on robotized manuals or wastes energy on electrics/hybrids) - Better put it in Neutral (except for hybrids because the battery can’t be charged - use the “hold” button) - Use the handbrake/parking brake for parking - to go easy on the transmission, follow the steps: 1. Pull the handbrake 2. Put in in Neutral 3. Let go of the footbrake 4. Put it in Park Did I get that right?
Even though it may not be needed when parking on flat ground, I decided to just use neutral-handbrake-park regardless of where I park. I think it's useful to make it a consistent habit just so I don't have to think twice about my parking conditions before I engage Park.
I'd rather not make it a consistent habit. I only use it on hills. It's just an extra annoying and unnecessary step when parked on flat ground. On hills, I keep my foot on the brake, pull the handbrake, then put the car in park. There's no need whatsoever to take your foot off the brake when you're in neutral, just go straight through to park.
Very informative, I have a semi automatic with easy gears Reverse, neutral and drive. Super easy helped massively doing my lessons and test in it and still have the car now. Thank you for this video
I taught Auto for more years than I care to remember and my golden rule to new drivers was quite simple. As you stated when a stop becomes a wait you brake you put car in neutral and apply hand brake. Many owners and in particular new drivers do not know which type of auto they have so this golden rule covers all types so no mistakes. Park is for when you have finished using the car.
I recently purchased a Citroen Automatic and there is no park only neutral. I have owned 9 automatics and I've tended to select neutral when stationary for any length of time with the handbrake applied. When in drive, I've felt the car straining to go. In my manual cars, I've selected neutral and released the clutch. However, I did allow my pupils to leave the car in gear when I was an instructor as, in the early stages, it took them a long time to select first gear and use clutch control. Thank you for this video. I'm sure it will help many drivers of automatics. Incidentally, I understand you fail your driving test in Australia if you select neutral.
I have a torque converter auto and often put the handbrake on when stopped for a while but leave it in Drive. I find this more relaxing than keeping my foot for too long on the brake. I'd never bother putting it in Neutral or Park as it's too much faff and unnecessary.
At 5:47, you should be somewhat worried with an automatic with a torque converter as well since, just like a traditional clutch, the torque converter itself basically transforms the rotation difference between the flywheel and the output shaft into heat that accumulates in the coupling fluid which is not good for it or the rest of the transmission. The good news is that, after cooling down, there should be no problems with the torque converter (if no other component was affected), unlike a clutch that will get permanently damaged.
I have a mid 1990’s rear wheel deive sedan with a standard torque converter auto gearbox. and indeed if the trans is left in drive while at stop lights plus foot on brake pedal then I feel the heat from the transmission tunnel.
My early 90s car has pretty noticeable vibration when I put it in drive and hold the brake, even though I had just replaced all engine mounts and dampers and engine is very smooth and no vibration when driving. When it is in drive and not going, it emitted the worst vibration. lol, as I had heard and read from many people with older cars, I think they weren't designed to be in drive when stopped for a long time, they were designed in the time that most people are still familiar with manual and will mostly put them in neutral at stop lights.
One thing worth pointing out is that if it's dark, using your footbrake while stationary in traffic can mean shining a bright red light directly into the eyes of the driver behind. When thinking of safety, that is an important point, especially for cars which have a third brake light mounted on the top of the rear hatch.
@@julietebbs4432 I meant use the handbrake instead of the footbrake - that way, you're not shining your brake lights into the car behind's windscreen. You can use the handbrake in drive, neutral or park.
@@richavery66 Bollocks! The brake light is meant for exactly the purpose you're eliminating. What if the driver behind you isn't paying attention, or what if there's no car behind? The brake light is to advise following traffic that you're stopped or stopping, full stop!
@@geofftefl I live in the UK. Rule 114 of the Highway Code states: "You MUST NOT use any lights in a way which would dazzle or cause discomfort to other road users, including pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders … In stationary queues of traffic, drivers should apply the parking brake and, once the following traffic has stopped, take their foot off the footbrake to deactivate the vehicle brake lights. This will minimise glare to road users behind until the traffic moves again. Law RVLR reg 27" I agree that if there's no-one behind, keeping your brake light on to advise other drivers that you're stationary is a good thing. However, my comment was about being stationary in traffic with someone stationary behind you. Once someone's stopped behind you, there's no need to continually advise them that you've stopped and, indeed, if your lights are dazzling or causing discomfort to other road users, in the UK you are breaking the law.
I always set Neutral and Handbrake before putting it in park on the transmission when parking. That's because, as an engineer, I understand the parking pawl and wish to reduce wear and tear on a gear box when its easer and cheaper to fix the brakes and the handbrake system.
I'm looking at buying a Toyota hybrid ecvt and having never driven anything other that manuals I was a bit worried about doing something wrong, or looking a complete idiot in the showroom asking possibly daft questions. This video has answered quite a few of those questions that I had about using the system in the best way possible and really helped me feel confident abut driving it! Thanks Richard for explaining it so clearly!
HSD is the best automatic you can get. Go for it. The only downside is that you are not allowed to tow anything. (but I believe that might have changed). I only opted for my Hyundai in the same price range because of that and also the fact that it had newer "avionics" (the competing Toyota model was old at that time and didn't have a radar and autobrake system)
In my car, I put the car in neutral and then put the handbrake on when waiting for long periods of time. When parking, I put it in neutral, then put the handbrake on and then put it in park. With more modern autos, it’ll be similar I guess
I have a DSG gearbox with auto hold on the electric handbrake which egages every time I stop, I also have stop start, if I am sat in standing traffic, the engine will automatically switch off and will only come back on and release the handbrake when I touch the accelerator to move forward again. The handbrake should be more than sufficient when stopped on a hill in traffic traffic, park should never be used, it would cause too much delay in getting moving again and potentially effect safety. The only time to use park is when you are planning to park the car up and leave it stationary. The procedure then is apply the handbrake, put into park, turn the engine off, exit and lock the car, and then depart on foot. Neutral could be used whilst still in the car in standing traffic but with most modern cars having stop start systems its not really necessary, plus like park it will add delay into getting moving again. I hope that this makes things clearer than the video 😊
Good video, but you forgot to mention the glare from your brake lights to the vehicles behind you while sitting stationary in traffic. I’ve always taught my students that if a pause becomes a wait, then you should put it in neutral and parking brake on and off the footbrake to stop dazzling the vehicles behind you. But then again, times may have moved on.
Agree, indeed the Highway Code states 'In stationary queues of traffic, drivers should apply the parking brake and, once the following traffic has stopped, take their foot off the footbrake to deactivate the vehicle brake lights. This will minimise glare to road users behind until the traffic moves again.'
And bear in mind that because the law hasn't caught up with technology - automatic handbrakes do not count as a handbrake, which means the brake lights must remain illuminated.
With a "normal" automatic (i.e one with a torque converter), there's no point in putting it in neutral. It simply creates another delay when moving off. But yes, "parking brake on, footbrake off when stationary" is what should happen for multiple reasons,
I have an automatic petrol Astra. This is how I use mine, rightly or wrongly. In my garage, which is level, it is in the park position as the engine will only start in this position. If I'm stopped at a traffic light, I place it in neutral with the handbrake on. I never leave it in drive with the foot brake on. Even if in neutral I do not use the foot brake and for a very good reason. If the car has been driven for a while the discs and pads will be hot. With the disc pads on the discs you will create a hotspot and over time the discs will distort and you will start to have wheel wobble.
Many many years ago when I learned to drive, I was taught to put my car into neutral and use the handbrake at traffic lights so that I didn't have my brake lights glaring in the eyes of the driver behind me - especially at night. Those sort of considerations are long gone.
It's my mechanic (lorry specialty) little brother who told me to engage neutral at long stops when he first saw me drive (a manual one) and later he said it was because he was concerned about the way I switch gears based on his ear alone 😂 Thankfully I got a new job and will be looking at getting an EV and I'm happy you covered them!
Unless I'm parked, idling, I am always on the foot-brake. If I'm in an automatic, I'll leave it in drive. I did not know of the trick to make sure your handbrake is taking the weight on a hill. I might start doing that unless I forget it.
After coming to a standstill in front off a traffic light leave the car in drive, the reason being that every time you change to neutral or park you activate the transmission brake bands causing wear in the he gearbox for no reason just keep your foot on the brake until the traffic light turns green and proceed if safe to do so, also by keeping your foot on the brake paddel you are using the cars strongest brake system, all four wheels are locked, this gives the greatest resistance in case of a rear end collision. The automatic gearbox with a torque converter has no problem being left in D for Drive at idle after a vehicle has come to a standstill.
Hi Richard, just want to say I really thank you for your tutorial videos. I actually live in the US and have always dreamed of owning a 6 speed MT WRX. Was always afraid at first to try to master manual transmissions, but with your videos, it gave me the confidence to drive manual. Well, a week ago I bought my dream car and am getting better everyday driving it thanks to all your tutorial videos. Still reviewing videos I've watched and looking for more from your channel to get better. Thank you for all that you do!
I have benn driving real cars now since 1997 and growing older now thinking about getting an automatic. I had no idea how many little things are at play in an automatic as well. Thanks a lot for your insights!
I was taught old school and after nearly 50 years of driving still adhere to applying the handbrake at traffic lights or long stops , it may not now be a requirement but with modern cars having high level LED brake lights it's respectful to not blind the person following you especially at night.....maybe consideration for other road users should be put back on the test.
That was nicely explained. As a retired instructor who now has a Kia Automatc Manual Transmission (they call it AMT) I always put it in neutral for a prolonged stop as I am not sure how much the clutch separates from flywheel so neutral stops any creep. For your information, not sure if this is unique to Kia but my AMT does not have P but if I turn the engine off with selector in D or R it locks transmission. Neither salesman nor service department advised me of this with both saying the handbrake had to meet specifications, I dont like relying on handbrake on hills but as you suggest, let handbrake hold it then transmission as back up.
@6:20 FYI: Your estimation of 30 seconds to one minute before the clutch is "toast" only applies to a "dry clutch". The DCT type of automated manuals usually have a "wet clutch" that is constantly bathed in oil. There is very little wear even when abused somewhat.
On the contrary, the six-speed VW dual clutch automated manual has a wet clutch. Clutch particles enter the oil and then the mechatronic unit which can cause it to fail. So sometimes a wet clutch can cause more harm than good.
@@ConquerDriving That’s just one particular example of a poorly designed wet clutch system. One bad example isn’t representative of all of them. I had a 2012 Fiat 500 5 speed manual and the pressure plate fingers broke twice in 60,000 miles where the clutch wouldn’t release when pressing the clutch pedal. I drove 20,000 miles shifting without the clutch the second time it broke. If I based all manual transmissions on the flimsy Fiat 500 transmission, I’d have to say manual transmissions suck. But obviously one example isn’t representative of the whole.
There are dry and wet clutch systems available. Usually you know which one you have if you're the owner of the car. dry ones are a little bit more efficient and cheaper but more prone to wear and heat damage. In the end, the clutch quality also plays a huge factor. I never had problems with my DCT in my current hyundai (dry) and also not in my past Mercedes (wet) but my Toyota needed a new clutch after a few years (was MMT model, but manuals were equally affected since they had the same weak clutch - it was a known fault in the community).
@@svr5423 My current car is a 7 speed DCT wet clutch (Honda designed). It’s been very reliable, unlike the Ford Power Shift dry clutch DCT, which people have nicknamed the “PowerShit” since they keep self destructing. I’m sure wet clutches can have problems too, but I’ve only ever had issues with dry ones.
I've driven manuals and ridden motorcycles for a long time, so when I got an Auto for the first time this year, I did joke that there's too many options. I settled on if I'm in heavy traffic or at a long wait, I use the handbrake and neutral on the gearbox because that's what I generally do in a manual and on a bike, so the muscle memory remains, although I do often use the gearbox park in the same way shown here; handbrake first then park, because the similar process to a manual. The technical details were quite interesting, so thanks for taking the time to actually explain that. Videos like this are proof (at least to me) that you can never be too experienced to learn something new.
Try not and do that all the time. You will wear out the first gear clutch set, because it always causes an engagment from N to D. That’s why the torque converter takes up the slip while you wait. Just looking out for you. I do the same on my bikes and truck while sitting at a light (manual) just sit in neutral until it’s time to go, not in an automatic however.
Well explained. The only modern automatics I've driven ae the Porsche PDK (in 911s and a Boxster) and DCT in a BMW M2. Both of those are perfectly happy to sit stationary without needing to be put into neutral. One of my cars is a 30-year-old BMW 7-series with a traditional torque converter automatic. I habitually push the gear selector into neutral at traffic lights and pull it back into drive as the lights start changing. And I choose the handbrake when I know I'll be stopped for more than 30 seconds or so. But I never put the car into park unless I'm shutting off the engine, and only then after applying the handbrake and going into neutral to take all load off the transmission. The idea of holding the car in position on the transmission's parking pawl is very uncomfortable for my sense of mechanical sympathy. Imagine how I felt on a trip to the U.S. last year when I discovered that my cousins (and most Americans) never use the parking brake and hold the car when parked up only by putting the transmission in park. As far as they're concerned, the parking brake (or handbrake to you and me) is for emergencies only, and they call it an E-brake. Absolutely crazy!
Just to add more confusion, if your handbrake works on discs rather than drum brakes, when parking on a steep hill with hot brakes make sure you put the car in park (or when the engine is off select first or reverse gear on a manual) as when the discs cool and contract the brake may not be so effective and the car can roll down hill.
Something to add, when it comes to Electric parking brakes, some newer car's (my 2021 Mazda3 does this) Will automatically disengage the parking brake when you touch the accelerator in gear (be it reverse or drive) so long as you have your seatbelt on.
From a mechanical point of view, an automatic gearbox is designed to stay "engaged" when sat still with foot brake on. Doing it the way youve described instructors wanting, neutral and handbrake on, will actually wreck your gearbox. Do NOT pop automatics into neutral when sat still at lights etc.
As a former driving instructor and a lorry driver of 49yrs that drives automatics my pet hate are people that sit in queues in front of me that with their foot on the brakes blinding me with their brake lights. So it's P for me. Good video by the way.
As someone who moved to a CVT hybrid about a year ago, after many years of manual gearboxes, this is very useful information. However, it is perhaps worth pointing out that if you are sitting in traffic, or at traffic lights, with your foot on the brake, your brake lights are (obviously) on. Even if people keep a sensible distance behind, brake lights can be very bright. I certainly have been behind many cars where the brake lights are bright enough, or positioned in such a way as to be annoying. So, out of courtesy to drivers behind me (especially at night time) I prefer not to have my foot on the brake. In a manual, it's easy; in an automatic there seems to be more to consider. Overall, so far, I much prefer manuals anyway. e.g. feathering off the brakes when coming to a halt to avoid bonnet dip and give a smooth stop is much easier in a manual because when you are almost stopped, you put the clutch in and the engine is no longer trying to turn the wheels. Not so with an automatic. And, ultimately, I prefer to tell the car what to do, rather than relying on the machine getting it right. Just a personal preference, of course.
You can, on some vehicles, save a tiny amount of fuel by idling in neutral/park. Usually between 0.05-0.15 gallons per hour, or essentially nothing. You can also overheat an automatic by idling in gear for a long time. Idling is usually the time with the most amount of torque converter slip, and more slip = more heat.
@@dungareesareforfools Why are you staring at brake lights? There are other things a driver can look at, and fixating on one thing is probably not safe.
Other than the point about taking your foot off the brake in traffic to avoid dazzling people behind, which is also in the Highway Code, there is an additional safety aspect to having your feet (and hands) off the controls when stationary. If the vehicle is hit by another and your foot is pressing the brake pedal can result in injury compared to the foot being relaxed. It's the same for manual cars - stopped for any significant time = into neutral and feet off pedals.
Just what I wanted 🤩 Thank you very much. I’m waiting for my automatic driving test and nobody could tell me this. I checked all my driving books and app but all talks about manual. I only found 2 automatic mock tests video Where they didn’t use the N or the hand brake but because at manual you often use it my instructor friend told me it is better to be use on the test. I went for a mock test with a manual instructor (our friend), and he couldn’t tell me this and that was my biggest fear I don’t know what I need to know when I’m waiting. 🙏
Almost like you read my mind!! I had this exact question in my head earlier today as I’m going to Canada in a few days and was wondering what I needed to do with the hire car regarding park and neutral. Your explanations are so clear and I love the various camera angles. Thank you!
High level brake lights are on pretty much all cars now. Brake lights on modern cars are upwards 800 lumens (that’s not far off full beam headlights) so when in a traffic jam, don’t leave your foot on the brake, it is quite literally blinding the people behind you.
What our when driving manual? Have to hold down the brake pedal when standstill, so the issue remains. Can't just pull the parking brake every time you stop
The "Hold" button will apply the brakes for 3 minutes, after which a warning is given. If this warning is ignored, the E-brake will activate 30 seconds after the warning is given. The 3 minute timer is reset by pressing the brake pedal. It's a great feature, and I use it a lot in city traffic. And it's great when waiting in line at the drive-through. :)
At the Canada/USA border there can be delays of 2-3 hours. As traffic creeps forward towards the border checkpoint, it's not uncommon for drivers of automatic vehicles (which is most vehicles) to creep forward on the brakes for the entire wait time...and with no stationary time in neutral either. As denoted by the sea of continuous red brake lights and no tele-tale brief flicker of reversing lights which would occur if shifting between Drive & Neutral or Drive & Park.
@@urkerab Yes I'm familiar with the P-R-N-D-3-2-1 pattern of automatics. (Sidenote: The 3-2-1 might vary depending on the number of auto gears). When I wrote about shifting between Drive and Park, I simply left out mentioning the intermediate Neutral & Reverse for brevity. In the same way that if I was talking about shifting say from 3rd to 4th gear in a manual, I'd be leaving out the brief and temporary state of Neutral. Update: I see however that I was erroneous in stating the flicker of reversing lights when shifting from D to N. Obviously that wouldn't occur since no R is involved.
@@urkerab My apologies for making a bit of a hash of all that. I think my brain must have been in "Neutral" rather than "Drive" but hopefully I've "Reversed" all that now. Anyhow, well spotted!
I have a smart car. If i stop, like at a red light, the car keeps the brake applied without me doing anything. I just stop and then let go of the pedal and it stays. When i want to go, i just press the gas pedal and it starts rolling and releases the brake, and even in a steep hill, there is ZERO rollback. It keeps the brake until enough force is applied from the engine and then it releases it. When i turn off the car the parking brake applies automatically. When i start and then start driving, the parking brake is released. REALLY like this kind of automated systems.
When I took my UK theory test just over 20 years ago now Im sure I remember there being a question regarding why you shouldn't sit on the foot brake and the answer was to avoid dazzling the driver behind. Now that many cars have led lights, I would have thought that's even more relevant today 😅
Most automatics for some reason have no real way around that - all of mine as per the manual say not to go in and out of parked more often than necessary (I'm guessing due to wear and tear) and not to use park/handbrake as a regular part of driving when waiting in a queue, etc.
I'm not sure whether LED rear lights are better or worse than three 21 W tungsten bulbs (left, centre high-level and right). Either way, at night it destroys my night vision for a while afterwards. I have nasty memories of being stuck in a traffic jam at night due to an accident, with the traffic very occasionally edging forward a few yards. I kept my eyes closed to avoid being dazzled, hoping that I'd still be able to see through my eyelids when the brake lights went out and I knew it was time to move forward a bit. After about 10 minutes of this, the driver of the car behind me, who was also dazzled by the brake lights of the car in front of me, got out and "persuaded" the driver to use his handbrake instead.
@@Mortimer50145 I've seen or heard a few people complain about it lately I'm guessing partly due to the increase in EVs on the road but many automatics and EVs (some premium models aside) aren't designed in a way where there is an equivalent of holding it on the handbrake on a manual and hence having the brake lights go out. Seems weird given the advice in the highway code but that is the way it is.
Found your channel by accident today. Having been driving for 60 years, in both autos and manual, I only discovered the robotised autos about 5 years ago. Someone informed me about the clutch plate and how holding the car on the handbrake while in D would cause damage. It was a Vauxhall Corsa auto hired car. Since that time I have been very wary of this type of auto transmission. The subject was nicely explained in this video. Well done. Separately , I dislike the practice of holding the car for long periods on the footbrake, while dazzling other motorists, especially at night. You may have this covered in another video.
I had an old 20 year old automatic with a 4 speed torque converter. It was easier to put it in neutral with the hand brake on when I was in traffic, as the hand brake was a bit naff, and in drive, it had enough torque to still pull the car forward. I now drive a 2020 Seat Ateca with a 7 speed DCT, and I can just leave it in drive when driving about town, as it has lift off neutral, and when stationary with the hand brake on, stays in neutral with start stop. Doesn't move until I touch the accelerator.
Why would you put the park brake on? Just put it in park if you're tired of holding the brake pedal (you could also shut off the engine at this point). With your new car you probably have the brake hold feature, which holds the brakes for you until you press on the gas Park brake should be only for parking on a hill
@@Xaid0nTT keep in mind that flicking that switch makes two electric motors turn hard enough to hold in the brake calipers and then again to release them.. it's not good for them and personally I don't even use it for parking unless I'm on a hill. I would rather use the brake hold function (if available) which just holds the brake by other means (it's designed for frequent use)
Putting the parking brake on while waiting in traffic must be a purely British thing and honestly, I don't think they are designed to be set and released that often (stretches cables or wears the brake electric motors). The rest of the world just waits with the foot on the brake unless the wait becomes really long. Also letting off the brake pedal causes the brake lights to turn off and vehicles coming from behind may not realize immediately you are stopped. In a manual you may want to put it in neutral right away because holding the clutch down causes damage to it. In automatics it was always suggested to avoid shifting frequently D/N because it would wear the transmission clutches more (with every gear change), while newer automatics, instead, do it automatically every time you hold the brakes down well enough (maybe to save fuel at the expense of reliability). EVs/hybrids kind of do the same, as you showed, but in this case it's more than legit. The brake hold function seems to be designed right for traffic, although I wouldn't trust it alone especially when downhill, as accidentally touching the gas or maybe in case of power loss, causes the brakes to release and the car to move forward. This function keeps the brakes light on all the time for safety.
And in that car, just prodding the accelerator starts the movement forward at the same time as releasing the brake. In “parking brake”, it applies the rear brake pads, clamped on to the disc, whereas in “brake hold”, it’s the front end with light power on to the traction motor, so it’s live and ready to go when required. It's also supposed to prevent rolling backwards on a rising gradient. A brisk start from rest in the traffic - so don’t try too early, if a bit close to the one in front. Alright, it only crawls forward at walking pace if you just tap it, so if the worst happens one should be able to brake again and stop in time.
It is good to see you have this knowledge and understanding of mechanics. I have purchased many automatics in the manual handbrake era where the handbrake was seized or just didn't work through a complete lack of use. I took one on a test drive, parked up to have a look under the bonnet when the engine was warm but I applied the manually operated hand "parking" brake. When we went to pull away I released the handbrake but, because it had not been used for so long it hand jammed on. Fortunately, it was not very efficient due to rust etc so I drove it back with the handbrake on, gave them the keys back and walked away.
Started my driving in manual gear car. switched to auto after 6 years or so but still used N and hand brake to stop it for 7 years. With a DSG since 11 years now, still N and hand brake at traffic lights. Safe!!!. If one is attentive to what's happening in front of the car than immersed in mobile phone, he/she can move quick enough - quicker than a manual gear car. You are holding your car with foot brake and gear in D, if someone hits from behind, the reflex would be to move your foot and car would run on to the car in front as it is in D. There are also a few videos from traffic cameras when the driver collapsed while waiting at the lights and car moved into the oncoming traffic since it was on D. One thing i have noticed in UAE where I live, quite a few cars have only one main brake light glowing or even only the one on the rear windscreen with both the main brake lights blown. That could be the result of prolonged glowing of brake lamps when you hold the car with the foot brake that most drivers use here. Reason could be Brake lamp bulbs are not designed to burn continuous unlike headlamps, parking lamps or fog lamps.
Thank you, Richard! This has been very informative and superbly clear. I consider myself a car buff (... I used to be more, nowadays probably not on that scale but still ...) and I wasn't aware of all those mechanical details. Thanks again!
Just about to get a Toyota automatic hybrid. I will be parking on a hill and this will be very useful to know. Brake. Handbrake. Neutral. When on handbrake, into park. Nice!
Thank you soooo much Richard for the amazing and expertly communicated driving videos! I passed my test today and your channel has been so helpful, couldn't have done it without you! Very happy and thanks :)
Great video! For someone like me, who is thinking about buying my first car with automatic transmission, (also a Toyota hybrid), this was very informative. Thanks a lot!
Yes I passed my test in an auto and never apply handbrake or put it in neutral or park at traffic lights. However I still think that everybody should still have to pass a test when they want to drive an automatic, even though they have passed a manual driving test. That's why there are so many accidents with older people driving an automatic cos they think. I can drive a manual I'm okay.
Good advise in an area where a lot of people are confused. I have an automatic torque converter where the question is usually, what is Neutral for. I only use Neutral when I go through the car wash, since the car wash will be pulling the car along so I definitely don't want it in Drive or Park and I want to keep the engine on so that the direction of wheels can more easily be manipulated. And like someone else pointed out, you can use Neutral when your car breaks down, but these days the breakdown service puts your car on a flatbed truck, they don't pull them around anymore.
In regards to the robotized manuals (clutched automatics I like to call them), whether it will do any harm when off the footbrake with the handbrake on depends on whether the car has a creep function. Some do, and will begin to move forward slowly when you release the footbrake. Many, however, don't, at least in my experience. They will sit there and do nothing when you release the footbrake, same as in a manual car. You have to apply throttle to get the car to start moving. The ones that fall into this latter category will not have the same problem with overheating the clutches when off the footbrake with the handbrake on.
@@quinnobi42 maybe, I have driven both, a diesel will move only with the clutch (sure if you want to move faster you need to press the gas pedal), also automatics/ robotized manuals, my dad's C4 (1.6 diesel) gets to around 7 km/h withiut touching the gas pedal Sure is not ideal but they do it nonetheless Note: moving away only with the clutch will tear it faster so, I never actually do it (only at suuper low speeds like to park and stuff)
@@jonisman2 You can get going in a petrol car using only the clutch, you just have to be a bit more careful. I once managed to get into 3rd without touching the accelerator, just for a laugh.
Worst feeling you can have behind a wheel (except for health or accident issues) is a Torque Convertor go. I had a brand new Taxi about 30 years ago, and on my way to Heathrow I pulled away at the lights, or at least the cab made the noise as if it was going to pull away. People love to honk their horn at ya as if there was anything I could do! Alas I couldn't go anywhere, and the garage (A main dealer for Taxis then) told me I would have to wait 3 weeks as they never had any in stock! I now have a CVT Auto Gearbox car ( Retired from cabbing) so I am thankful to you for showing me how to make the gearbox last longer! Liked and Subbed!
This was really helpful. I've just got my first automatic and definitely needed some of these top tips. I also often have to park on a hill so the bonus handbrake tip is also great.
I love your videos and have been working through them to 'modernise' my driving as I have just turned 73 and I have to prepare for what I have to face when I am 75. I think that driving my Fiat 500 has much improved as a result🙂 It has a VERY quirky software system and the auto gearbox uses drive bands that overheat if if use it incorrectly giving me all sorts of errors. I was locked in reverse only once! (It ran okay after cooling down!) I think I have spotted a small error in this video though... I followed your advice and watched the background and it seems to me that the back of car rises a lot and the front goes down a little, which seems to be the reverse of what you said in the video. I hope I have helped with this comment. At least you have the opportunity to correct at least me or the video as appropriate
When I was facing uphill, I put the handbrake on then selected neutral and came off the brake. The back would have raised and the front would have dipped as the car wants to roll back but the rear wheels are locked. But in drive with the handbrake on when I come off the brake the front raises and the back dips as the car wants to move forwards using the front wheels but the rear wheels are locked. I hope that clears it up. Thank you for watching.
I have a robotised (s-tronic) automatic that I bought in 2010; the gears definitely spin when in Drive but the clutch isn't engaged when the brake is pressed. If I release the brake quickly on a hill I'll roll back slightly, but if I release it slowly the gearbox will catch it so I don't. Neutral definitely lowers the engine tone / stops those gears spinning, but I've only popped it into Neutral when I've been waiting for extended periods. She's completed 162k miles and still drives like a charm 😀 I am on my second gearbox though (the first one blew up randomly under warranty - not my fault!)
The Highway Code says. In stationary queues of traffic drivers should apply the PARKING BRAKE and once the following traffic has stopped TAKE THE FOOT OF THE FOOTBRAKE to deactivate the vehicle brake lights. This will minimise glare to road users behind until the traffic moves again. This is more important than ever with the very bright high level lights on modern cars. 😡😡😡😡😡🤠
That doesn’t make sense. Guy behind you may think you’re creeping and you won’t be ready to move off and frustrate everyone else. It’s insane how different is driving in real life to what they make instructors teach. When I passed my manual last year, I had a couple of lessons where you learn how to drive in real world - highly recommended to new drivers that passed. Another thing they should teach is that you need to predict that most drivers are knobheads that want to kill others - especially on the motorway.
@@philamour I have been driving for over 35 years and never had someone run up the back of me because my brake lights went out after I applied my handbrake. So your statement suggests that you ether have not read the Highway Code or choose to ignore it. 😡🤠
What would the glare do?! Give the one coming up behind you the idea you are either braking or standing still?........which you are.. I only experience glare an inconvenience where unwarranted fog reat lights and main beams are concerned, brake light glare makes you pay attention to possibly imminent danger.
exceptional commentary. your passion and love for the driving shows. its a pleasure watching your videos. everyday is a school day and with you its so much to learn despite being an experienced driver.
Oh wow, I was certainly never taught to shift to parking and engage the parking brake when standing in traffic - seems pretty unsafe on first thought, someone's bound to get careless or frustrated while you're disengaging the brake!
I've been driving since 17 now 64 and have always put my Hanbrake ON and shifted into neutral when waiting at traffic lights, I've only ever had to replace a Clutch once many year's ago. So it definitely saved me a fortune in Clutch,Pressure plate,Thrust bearing and Flywheel replacements. All my vehicles have been fairly high mileage when I've replaced them usually due to rust or just getting too old. My current car is a little 1.4Ltr Diesel Toyota Manual with 125,000 Miles on it with no signs of Clutch wear just yet.
@@04smallmj not on all autos ;-) . My Merc has an electric column shift with forwards/neutral/backwards and PARK ..... it doesn't shift through reverse from Drive/PARK to get to Reverse as it might have done on other cars
My 2016 VW Passat wagon a DSG gearbox and a start/stop system. I just leave it in D at the stoplights with my foot on the brake because my car's engine will shut off automaticly, and when the light turns green I just let go off the brake, the engine will start again and I press the accelerator to resume my journey. The hill assist is very nice too, makes the car almost foolproof to drive. 300,000 KM's and still going strong.
@9:54 "In neutral the hybrid system can't charge the battery". This is absolutely, 100% incorrect. The hybrid battery is charged by the motor-generator that is connected to the flywheel. The motor-generator is also what starts the engine as there isn't a hybrid made by any manufacturer in the world that has a normal 12 volt starter. ALL HYBRIDS are started with the high voltage battery spinning the motor attached to the flywheel, which then turns into a generator once the engine is running and begins charging the hybrid battery regardless of what gear it's in. You might be confusing that with regenerative charging. In neutral, you won't be able to recuperate the kinetic energy back into the battery. But that is not the same as "the system can't charge the battery in neutral".
This is a note from Toyota: If you’re in stop-start traffic, don’t put the car in neutral (‘N’) when stationary, as electricity will not be generated, and the hybrid battery will use up its charge.
@@ConquerDriving It’s nonsense. Toyota uses MG1 to charge the hybrid battery and MG2 to recuperate kinetic energy (regenerative braking). I’m a retired automotive engineer with a 30 year career with Ford, General Motors and BMW at the end. At Ford, we dismantled the Prius and reverse engineered it for our own knowledge. There aren’t many people other than Toyota who knows Toyota’s hybrid system better than me. That quote supposedly from the Toyota owners manual is absolute nonsense.
@@ConquerDriving The WeberAuto (Weber University) UA-cam channel has a very good tutorial on Toyota’s hybrid system if you want a verifiable source of information other than a “random” commenter (me). Edit: I just posted a friendly "video response" on my channel showing my hybrid car charging in neutral with technical instruments connected to the computer showing the power flow. Cheers.
"the hybrid battery will use up its charge" - it takes like half an hour for that to happen though and as the other person posted, neutral gear won't simply prevent the engine coming on to recharge the battery if it drops too low. And that in turn generally happens to prevent damage to the hybrid battery.
In the US, where most cars are automatics, as you're probably aware, what they teach in driving school is pretty simple. If you're driving, the transmission stays in drive. That includes waiting at lights and in traffic. Park is to be used when you park, which is pretty self-explanatory, and neutral is just there in case your car breaks down. Now, there aren't very many single-clutch robotized manual transmission cars over here, so the advice about shifting to neutral isn't really mentioned. For dual-clutch transmissions, they automatically shift into neutral after a period of waiting so it is unnecessary to shift into neutral when waiting. The only time it's generally recommended to shift into park while waiting is if you know it's going to be a long weight, say waiting at a railroad crossing for a 5 mile long freight train to pass.
And that's how most of the world drives anyway, and that's why manufacturers design transmissions to match this style of driving. For example, if you shift into neutral in some cars, the start stop feature may not work or something else. In other words, people's driving habits shape the design of cars and that's really how it should be used.
I believe we have semi automatics mines is I cery occasionally miss a manual.
It's very different in England because our roads are very small and crowded and you cant really drive more than 12 seconds without stopping for buses, pedestrians, mini roundabouts, lights etc.
In Yankeeland, you can drive for hours without ever even hitting traffic lights etc. So it's more important to use the gears and things properly here or else you wear out your car much faster.
As a dual Brit Canadian, totally concur with your comments re US normal procedure. It's the same in Canada.
If the government keeps pushing this crazy 'net zero' rubbish, soon all cars will be electric/automatic and the manual gearbox will be assigned to the dustbin of history.
I am a Dutch instructor for over 35 years and this is the first time i hear a clear and well motivated statement about this topic. Thanks a lot!!
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I've recently bought an automatic (CVT) after over 40 years of driving manual transmissions.
This video is extremely useful. Thanks.
I passed my test today first time and I just wanted to say thank you for all your videos!! I’ve been watching them for weeks and you’ve really helped me get out of my own head and be a better and safer driver. I wouldn’t have passed without them!
That's fantastic news! Thank you for watching and congratulations on passing!
NathanTiffanyBroome.
Don't get too big-headed. It doesn't matter whether you passed the first time or not; it doesn't make you more qualified to drive.
@@redblade8160thanks for the unnecessary and unasked for advice, random stranger on the internet. I completely agree with you on one thing- it doesn’t matter at all if you pass first time. But you know what? I’m still happy that I did.
@@redblade8160calm down
@@redblade8160someone’s salty
I am a Retired , yes Old Guy , Heavy Articulated Vehicle Driver . THIS was an Excellent Breakdown of the differences in Transmission types .
And I 100% agree with you . Having proper control of the Vehicle is all that actually matters .
A few posters have commented that they have passed their tests very recently, an examiner once told one of my students that passing merely means you are considered safe enough to continue learning without being supervised 😎
I'm a driving instructor. I tell my students that learning good craft is the priority, not passing the test. When they pass, I tell them that this is when the learning really starts.
Obsoletely, a fine example of Old School advice that is still very much VALID now as it always was.
Some advice I can give to learner drivers after 42 years of driving. Don't be an offensive driver, be an defensive driver. Be kind to other drivers and give way and you will most likely be as safe as you can. Watch out for folks, don't get distracted and remember that you are driving a hunk of metal that can take life and limb. Some of the highest death rates on UK roads are young boys between 17 - 19. A car is not a toy and it's not a Formula 1 racer. Be kind to other drivers, slow down ,don't be selfish and behave as the road only belongs to you! Share the few roads that we have left and we will all arrive alive.
@@user-ng1eo4rr8n True, but according to stats most of them are from stolen cars (joyriders who won't care about being flashed by a speed camera), or uninsured drivers so most of them won't have a licence or take a test anyway.
Just passed my test w/ 3 minors, your videos helped a ton. thank you so much :)
That's fantastic news! Congratulations on passing!
Always park the car using the handbrake and then put it into Park. Steep hills can lock the transmission up if you do not apply the hand brake first. Good video
Its not worth to damage your transmission, even if the chances are small
It's not possible to lock up a traditional automatic transmission, the torque converter is a fluid coupling.
@@edwardfletcher7790 'Locked up, is the term he's using for the trans to be somewhat jammed in park. On a steep hill if you put the trans in park and release the foot brake, the car will roll a little until the park pawl engages, the weight of the car is now against that pawl making it hard to pull the gear stick back out of park. By using the hand brake first, it minimises the chance of the shifter jamming. I spent many years rebuilding transmissions and this is one issue that I've had to educate people about a few times. On steep hills I usually angle and roll the front wheel onto the curb and then apply the brake and park especially when facing uphill as some hand brakes don't work so well backwards.
I always put the car in neutral, apply the handbrake, and then put the car into park.
@@mikejones-go8vzThat's what I'm been doing after watching on UA-cam. Before that, I always handbrake first then Park. 😄
Great video, I've been teaching on automatics for quite a few years now and I always advise my pupils to use neutral when waiting in traffic or stoped at pedestrian crossings as this will reduce the very dangerous risk of the vehicle shooting forward if the accelerator is mistakenly pressed resulting in devastating consicqenses, this has also happened in car parks... I also advise that when passengers are boarding or alighting select neutral or park this will make the vehicle safe for everyone.
If your right foot is on the brake, you are not going to accidentally press the gas pedal with your right foot.
Great video, and as someone who’s only driven automatics rarely in 60 years of driving, I learned a lot. One thing not mentioned though is the brake lights of cars, and automatic cars especially, if the brake pedal is recommended to be kept depressed when stopped. For drivers immediately behind a car, especially at night, the effect of doing this can be dazzlingly bright brake lights partially ruining a driver’s night vision. At the very least it’s inconsiderate and certainly not good driving practice.
Surely any automatic car, whatever category it falls into, should be capable of being stopped temporarily with some system of brake system selected ‘on’, but which doesn’t damage or strain the drive system, yet still allows the brake lights to be ‘off’. In manual cars, the handbrake serves this purpose very effectively, but ultimately, whatever the car, it’s all down to the standard of tuition and driving. I just wish more drivers were understanding of just how bright their brake lights are when you’re sitting behind them in stationary traffic.
Thanks again for the video!
That’s stupid. Brake lights too bright?! Come on man.
@@JAMESWUERTELE I'm not getting into an argument, and neither am I stupid. Good driving practice is not to sit in traffic at night (or really any time at all) with the brake lights on. Some cars have very bright brake lights, others aren't too bad, but, whatever, it's not good practice, or considerate.
@@chrisholland4633 There's always one isn't there. I came on to post the exact point you've made and am in total agreement. The rear brake lights on Mercedes for example are very vivid and lit for minutes at a time i.e. at traffic lights are really uncomfortable.
I came to the conclusion most people in automatics are plain lazy.
But this of course is stupid 😞
that is not stupid he is correct sitting behind someone at night with brake lights on can be very dazzling more so with the newer cars that have LED. lights.
@@GAZZA55 You're right, everyone seems to do it. Just laziness and lack of awareness of other road users beside themselves.
My DSG car is set by myself to automatically apply the hand brake when I stop by using the footbrake then releases as I drive off, it's brilliant as I don't have to keep my foot on the brake to stop it creeping forward, it is overridable though and that's useful when parking in a tight space, the stop start I turn off as it does my head in especially at junctions when you may need a quick maneuver to join traffic. Well presented vlog, thanks.
Got my first automatic a few months ago and this video has answered all my questions, in an intelligent and clear way. Thank you!!!
Very good video. I was explaining to my partner how putting my car into park at traffic lights is bad for a different reason: the technology! When you put the car into park it presumes your parking. So when the lights go green, and you select drive, if there is a car in front of you, in my car you get a warning because you've just selected drive but the car thinks you've made a mistake. The result is that as you go to move off, you're restricted to "parking speed" or "parking torque", as in: I can put the pedal down substantially but the car feels like it's broken until it realises the car in front is also moving and we aren't about to accidentally drive into another parked car.
I also noticed that even on the foot brake there's a tiny amount of torque being applied in 1st gear, ever so tiny, and that it makes no difference if I use the foot brake or parking brake since that auto disengages; but the big no-no for using the parking brake when driving that seems to be missing from the video is that it puts strain on the electric motor that powers the brake when you are constantly engaging and disengaging it. And it's slower to disengage than the foot brake. I've heard folk tales of people wearing out the parking brake motor by using it at traffic lights for a few years, when it should last many many years. Opponents to the foot brake cite the Highway Code and dazzling people behind at night, which is unfortunate... but when the car is in self drive it will hold the brake lights on, that's the future in reality.
Just passed my test this morning. Just wanted to say a massive thank you. You’re videos were incredible helpful. Cheers buddy.
That's great to hear! Thank you for watching and congratulations on passing!
I switched to an automatic after a year of lessons in a manual and for someone with learning difficulties, it has really helped. Would love to see more automatic centric videos.
Soon auto will be the norm.
I have severe ADHD learnt to drive a manual. Millennials are just lazy and give up at the drop of a hat. Harden up boy because life is going kick you in the balls like a horse.
@@send2gl
Automatic cars are already the norm.
@@redblade8160
*Not in the UK - in the USA only!*
@@alexnelson9512 More Autos are sold today in the UK...
In the USA, the parking brake is (mostly) referred to as the 'emergency brake'. Most American drivers NEVER use it and rely exclusively on 'P' (though I know someone will provide an example to claim I am wrong!). I didn't know about the hill parking point, though - very useful, as my driveway is on a steep slope 😃
P (or setting 1st or reverse gear on a manual) just locks the gear, the parking brake also locks the rear wheels.
Usually you should do both, especially when parking on an incline.
The parking brake is usually an electronic operated brake that can be on or off. The hand brake is operated with the hand and can also be used to initiate drifting (hand brake turns) and to slow down the car in case the main brakes are not available (e.g. when you have the engine off and the vacuum is depleted) - just be careful, the braking action is limited.
On flat ground, I don't bother with the parking brake. On a hill, I absolutely do.
It had been weeks since I got my first automatic that I was trying to get to understand the right way to park and wait in traffic. Stumbled upon this video. It is just perfect. Answered all my queries. Specifically, I was even more interested to know how automatic stop/start relates to waiting in traffic. Wonderfully answered. Keep up the good work!
Auto stop-start was only devised my manufacturers to get round emissions levels so the best thing you could do is turn it off or even disable it completely. On some cars it's just a module that is connected to the battery via the power leads; you just need to unplug it. In traffic just hold on the footbrake if stopped at lights for a few seconds or use the parking brake if stopping for longer. Contrary to what the video says, leaving the car in drive with the parking brake on will not damage your car's engine or gearbox, that's only the case with very old autos.
Firstly, thank you Richard for your detailed and well produced videos. I’ve learned soo much from your channel, I started driving about three months ago and I must tell you, your tutorials helped a lot.
I bought a VW Golf 7 DSG, I must say it’s pretty fool proof. Throughout this video I got the sense that my car is really well designed because its safety features avoid a bulk of the mistakes you covered in this video. In the absence of these safety features, I probably would have damaged the car.
Thanks you from South Africa. 🇿🇦 😉
i have still about a year untill i can take my driving test, but thanks to your videos the time i already spend driving makes me feel more confident that i can pass it easily, and im getting close to my mom's driving level even tho she had her licence for about 15 years now, so thank you Richard, I'm sure I will check your videos when taking my course to impress my instructors
passed my manual today after having my auto license for 2 years, binged your videos the whole time i was learning so thank you for all the great tips!
That's great to hear! Thank you for watching and congratulations on passing!
Wise advice, but in particular, as you are in a Corolla, the last option to use is N - as advised in the owners manual, it isolates the battery charging, and in the long term would result in them discharging. It’ll probably warn you if that happens. That one also has the “brake hold” option, which works well, as long as you’re happy with the brake lights being on. Using the P mode with the transmission being locked allows them to be off during a long stop - but then it will temporarily display the reverse lights when shifting through to D, which might scare someone behind. Swings and roundabouts with that one.
As it is, the one you are in is pretty foolproof compared with the old manual gearbox cars with real “handbrakes”, especially on rising gradients.
Ha! Yes.
I hate it when the reversing light comes on in front of me in traffic. Am I about to be hit by an idiot*, or is it someone driving an auto who doesn't appreciate what they're doing.
*And there are idiots out there who would reverse into you and then wonder what happened...
I'm trying to work out why putting the car into neutral would isolate the battery charging. Surely the alternator runs independently of the transmission and should charge the battery all the time the engine is running, whether in park, neutral, drive or reverse. Or is there something that I am missing here? Why would Toyota design their car so putting it into neutral cuts the power from the alternator?
@@LG-cz6ls Much worse that brief flash of the reversing lights are the people who sit stationary in a queue with their brake lights dazzling the driver behind - especially at night. That's why I always go into neutral and hold the car on the handbrake if I anticipate I'lbe stopped for more than a couple of seconds.
No, it does not. There is no independent alternator for producing 12V dc in a Toyota Hybrid. There are two Moor Generators (MG1 & MG2), one being the traction motor, and the other either operates as a generator from the engine (when it runs), or the starter motor when required. They are variable frequency 3-phase ac ones. The high voltage dc connection to the traction battery is isolated in N mode (which is only there to comply with older mechanical transmission kit), and the engine can’t be run when N is selected. There is normally a constant feed at high voltage from either MG1 or MG2 to the 12V via a converter set when the power is switched on. Incidentally, the 12V battery does not start this engine at all, unlike a traditional car engine, and it is quite a small one by comparison. No separate starter or alternator at all.@@Mortimer50145
@@Mortimer50145 Brake lights on is irritating, yes. But it's just a brake light. It's not as if someone is driving around with their fog light on.
Manual car, handbrake, neutral, sorted.
Thinking some wazzock is about to reverse into you is worse.
very informative! I have been driving for donkey's years, but only recently bought a 25 year old Jag which is auto. I learnt something today. Very professional. Good luck to you young man!
A good reason for using neutral and the handbrake at night is to avoid dazzling the driver behind you with high intensity red lights. I am amazed nobody ever mentions this point.
TBF, that only ever affects people with astigmatism. You should be wearing glasses that cancel astigmatism, or not drive in the first place.
@@nadebeef6529 I disagree, I do not have an astigmatism, but do find looking at the large bright brake lights that are on cars nowadays uncomfortable when it is raining and stopped at traffic lights. I have posted to this effect on this post elsewhere. A lot of drivers do not know it is illegal to have rear fog lights on in the rain. They must only be used in poor visibility due to fog, as their name suggests. This is because of the glare they cause to drivers in the rain, not because of any sight defects of other drivers. Another problem is drivers do not check that all their lights are working properly. Many times I see drivers with one headlight not working properly. This puts extra power to the other side and causes dazzling to on coming vehicles and/or they could be mistaken for a motorcycle by other road users creating a problem with judging the width of the offending vehicle.
@nadebeef6529 Not at all. I have good eyes and It really annoys me when people use the footbrake instead of the handbrake. The glare IS annoying. Next time you're behind someone at night, take note of that glare and then when they release the brake, the difference is very noticeable. As a side issue, using the handbrake keeps all the parts working and less likely to seize up.
The way the gearbox works can vary between even very similar cars. Some DSGs need to be put into neutral when the car is stationary, some don't.
Great advice about the parking pawl. 👍
Really well axplained.
Even with a CVT I tend to put it in neutral if I'm standing for awhile.
The sound alone tells me its less strain.
As many CVT gearboxes have an electric powder clutch it is wise to use neutral when standing still for more than a few seconds, it is just like a manual clutch in not liking standing still in gear.
Oh Richard, you're national treasure! I'm looking to get back into driving and am planning on getting a cheap old used automatic car in the near future, so you probably just saved my clutch! 😂I learned to drive in Germany years ago, and haven't sat in the drivers seat in a good 7 years. I've been binging your videos prepare, so thank you so much for all the educational content you're creating. Roundabouts in particular were an area of concern to me, as we barely have any in Germany, but I feel I have a good understanding of them now.
Those that come in (near to you) from the Right 'Always' have Right of Way !!! And be a courteous Driver : Indicate your 'intentions' by using 'Your Indicators promptly and concisely' on Entering, going Around, and 'Preparing to Leave (Exiting) the Road' Off the Roundabout ! Nothing worse than seeing a Driver not (knowing) what they need to show others. If in doubt 'use more Indicators' than none at all !. . . Just saying. 👍
Saw someone enter into a Roundabout (turn Right !!!(thus going Wrong Way (like going against a Clock !) Turned out it was an American (Service Base near by). . Everybody sounded their Horns and got his attention by Waving madly.
Luckily no harm or damage was done. 😳
If you get 'flustered' either do another Full Around (Again) indicating Right until you calmly see your 'Exit.' Or turn Off the Roundabout, by any next Left, calmly compose your 'Required Turnoff' do a turn about manoeuvre. Re-Enter said Roundabout and ensure you 'Select' the correct Route (Exit Road !) Nothing wrong with Red Face Embarrassment as long as you Drive Safely !!!
Been Driving for over x35 Yrs.
Good Luck. Sure I could not Drive the German 'Autobahn'. 🙃
Passed second time today with 4 minors. Your videos have been really helpful Richard, thank you!
That's great to hear! Thank you for watching and congratulations on passing!
Great video as usual. I passed last November and your videos helped me pass. Even now I still watch because not only is it entertaining to watch, I still feel like I can never learn enough when it comes to driving and being safe on the road. Thank you for your videos.
I enjoyed your presentation. You may consider the impact on a following motorcycle during inclement weather with prolonged use of footbrake (brake lights) causing dazzle. I speak from experience; despite every effort to maintain a clear visor and maintaining a safe following distance, safety may be compromised, especially at night in the rain. This is the difference between learning to pass a test and learning a life skill.
On my old semi automatic,ASG from Peugeot,when i was waiting on a stoplight 50+ seconds(i usually saw the timer on the stoplight) i would put the car on N with the handbreak on. And 4-5 seconds before green release the break and put it fast in A. Never had a problem with the gearbox in 218.000KM :)
Thanks for the describing the differences. I've been driving for nearly 40 years and watched this because I've never driven a proper DSG and wanted more info. Currently drive a CVT and basic automated manual (Smart). Two points I would make; Especially in winter, I don't apply the handbrake, if I'm leaving the car for long periods as the the brakes can and do seize on. 2 putting the car in park in traffic and being shunted from behind will be a harder impact. There are other points but this channel is for learners so, I respect that.
Spot on about putting the car in park resulting in a harder impact; if it's not on the movement of the car will absorb some of the impact and could result in less severe injuries.
At traffic lights, assuming the road is level I usually hold the car on the footbrake, therefore showing the brake lights, until the car behind me has stopped then put the car in neutral and leave the brake off.
So as a general conclusion (when waiting in an automatic):
- Leaving it in DRIVE with handbrake ON and the foot OFF the footbrake is often a bad idea (roasts your clutch on robotized manuals or wastes energy on electrics/hybrids)
- Better put it in Neutral (except for hybrids because the battery can’t be charged - use the “hold” button)
- Use the handbrake/parking brake for parking - to go easy on the transmission, follow the steps: 1. Pull the handbrake 2. Put in in Neutral 3. Let go of the footbrake 4. Put it in Park
Did I get that right?
Even though it may not be needed when parking on flat ground, I decided to just use neutral-handbrake-park regardless of where I park. I think it's useful to make it a consistent habit just so I don't have to think twice about my parking conditions before I engage Park.
I'd rather not make it a consistent habit. I only use it on hills. It's just an extra annoying and unnecessary step when parked on flat ground. On hills, I keep my foot on the brake, pull the handbrake, then put the car in park. There's no need whatsoever to take your foot off the brake when you're in neutral, just go straight through to park.
Very informative, I have a semi automatic with easy gears Reverse, neutral and drive. Super easy helped massively doing my lessons and test in it and still have the car now. Thank you for this video
I taught Auto for more years than I care to remember and my golden rule to new drivers was quite simple. As you stated when a stop becomes a wait you brake you put car in neutral and apply hand brake. Many owners and in particular new drivers do not know which type of auto they have so this golden rule covers all types so no mistakes. Park is for when you have finished using the car.
Stupid advice! All that neutral to drive shifting will cause 1st gear wear on that set of clutches. Don’t tell people to that crap.
I recently purchased a Citroen Automatic and there is no park only neutral. I have owned 9 automatics and I've tended to select neutral when stationary for any length of time with the handbrake applied. When in drive, I've felt the car straining to go. In my manual cars, I've selected neutral and released the clutch. However, I did allow my pupils to leave the car in gear when I was an instructor as, in the early stages, it took them a long time to select first gear and use clutch control. Thank you for this video. I'm sure it will help many drivers of automatics. Incidentally, I understand you fail your driving test in Australia if you select neutral.
I didn't know that about the driving test in Australia.
I have a torque converter auto and often put the handbrake on when stopped for a while but leave it in Drive.
I find this more relaxing than keeping my foot for too long on the brake. I'd never bother putting it in Neutral or Park as it's too much faff and unnecessary.
That’s perfect! These people that shift in and out of neutral and drive all the time wear out the first gear clutches in automatics.
At 5:47, you should be somewhat worried with an automatic with a torque converter as well since, just like a traditional clutch, the torque converter itself basically transforms the rotation difference between the flywheel and the output shaft into heat that accumulates in the coupling fluid which is not good for it or the rest of the transmission. The good news is that, after cooling down, there should be no problems with the torque converter (if no other component was affected), unlike a clutch that will get permanently damaged.
I have a mid 1990’s rear wheel deive sedan with a standard torque converter auto gearbox. and indeed if the trans is left in drive while at stop lights plus foot on brake pedal then I feel the heat from the transmission tunnel.
My early 90s car has pretty noticeable vibration when I put it in drive and hold the brake, even though I had just replaced all engine mounts and dampers and engine is very smooth and no vibration when driving. When it is in drive and not going, it emitted the worst vibration. lol, as I had heard and read from many people with older cars, I think they weren't designed to be in drive when stopped for a long time, they were designed in the time that most people are still familiar with manual and will mostly put them in neutral at stop lights.
One thing worth pointing out is that if it's dark, using your footbrake while stationary in traffic can mean shining a bright red light directly into the eyes of the driver behind. When thinking of safety, that is an important point, especially for cars which have a third brake light mounted on the top of the rear hatch.
Thing is if you select park it will pass reverse which will panic the driver behind you
@@julietebbs4432 I meant use the handbrake instead of the footbrake - that way, you're not shining your brake lights into the car behind's windscreen. You can use the handbrake in drive, neutral or park.
Totally agree.
@@richavery66 Bollocks! The brake light is meant for exactly the purpose you're eliminating. What if the driver behind you isn't paying attention, or what if there's no car behind?
The brake light is to advise following traffic that you're stopped or stopping, full stop!
@@geofftefl I live in the UK. Rule 114 of the Highway Code states:
"You MUST NOT use any lights in a way which would dazzle or cause discomfort to other road users, including pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders … In stationary queues of traffic, drivers should apply the parking brake and, once the following traffic has stopped, take their foot off the footbrake to deactivate the vehicle brake lights. This will minimise glare to road users behind until the traffic moves again.
Law RVLR reg 27"
I agree that if there's no-one behind, keeping your brake light on to advise other drivers that you're stationary is a good thing. However, my comment was about being stationary in traffic with someone stationary behind you. Once someone's stopped behind you, there's no need to continually advise them that you've stopped and, indeed, if your lights are dazzling or causing discomfort to other road users, in the UK you are breaking the law.
I always set Neutral and Handbrake before putting it in park on the transmission when parking. That's because, as an engineer, I understand the parking pawl and wish to reduce wear and tear on a gear box when its easer and cheaper to fix the brakes and the handbrake system.
I passed my driving test today on Manual thank you for your videos assisting me in my journey ❤️
That's fantastic news! Thank you for watching and congratulations on passing!
Thanks to you I passed my driving test. I still watch your videos because they are so good :)
I'm looking at buying a Toyota hybrid ecvt and having never driven anything other that manuals I was a bit worried about doing something wrong, or looking a complete idiot in the showroom asking possibly daft questions. This video has answered quite a few of those questions that I had about using the system in the best way possible and really helped me feel confident abut driving it! Thanks Richard for explaining it so clearly!
I bought corolla s it's easy ^^ the car have a lot of help systeme it drives itselef
HSD is the best automatic you can get. Go for it.
The only downside is that you are not allowed to tow anything. (but I believe that might have changed).
I only opted for my Hyundai in the same price range because of that and also the fact that it had newer "avionics" (the competing Toyota model was old at that time and didn't have a radar and autobrake system)
At last, someone who knows what they're talking about, even down to repair cost.
"bang on" as you pomes say.
In my car, I put the car in neutral and then put the handbrake on when waiting for long periods of time. When parking, I put it in neutral, then put the handbrake on and then put it in park. With more modern autos, it’ll be similar I guess
Can I do dis with a dct transmission
I have a DSG gearbox with auto hold on the electric handbrake which egages every time I stop, I also have stop start, if I am sat in standing traffic, the engine will automatically switch off and will only come back on and release the handbrake when I touch the accelerator to move forward again. The handbrake should be more than sufficient when stopped on a hill in traffic traffic, park should never be used, it would cause too much delay in getting moving again and potentially effect safety. The only time to use park is when you are planning to park the car up and leave it stationary. The procedure then is apply the handbrake, put into park, turn the engine off, exit and lock the car, and then depart on foot. Neutral could be used whilst still in the car in standing traffic but with most modern cars having stop start systems its not really necessary, plus like park it will add delay into getting moving again. I hope that this makes things clearer than the video 😊
Good video, but you forgot to mention the glare from your brake lights to the vehicles behind you while sitting stationary in traffic. I’ve always taught my students that if a pause becomes a wait, then you should put it in neutral and parking brake on and off the footbrake to stop dazzling the vehicles behind you. But then again, times may have moved on.
Agree, indeed the Highway Code states 'In stationary queues of traffic, drivers should apply the parking brake and, once the following traffic has stopped, take their foot off the footbrake to deactivate the vehicle brake lights. This will minimise glare to road users behind until the traffic moves again.'
And bear in mind that because the law hasn't caught up with technology - automatic handbrakes do not count as a handbrake, which means the brake lights must remain illuminated.
tse13012.
Glare is only a problem at night.
@@redblade8160 Half of folks' lives are spent at night.
With a "normal" automatic (i.e one with a torque converter), there's no point in putting it in neutral. It simply creates another delay when moving off. But yes, "parking brake on, footbrake off when stationary" is what should happen for multiple reasons,
I have an automatic petrol Astra. This is how I use mine, rightly or wrongly. In my garage, which is level, it is in the park position as the engine will only start in this position.
If I'm stopped at a traffic light, I place it in neutral with the handbrake on. I never leave it in drive with the foot brake on. Even if in neutral I do not use the foot brake and for a very good reason. If the car has been driven for a while the discs and pads will be hot. With the disc pads on the discs you will create a hotspot and over time the discs will distort and you will start to have wheel wobble.
Had my astra for 16 years no prob at all and auto
Many many years ago when I learned to drive, I was taught to put my car into neutral and use the handbrake at traffic lights so that I didn't have my brake lights glaring in the eyes of the driver behind me - especially at night. Those sort of considerations are long gone.
It's my mechanic (lorry specialty) little brother who told me to engage neutral at long stops when he first saw me drive (a manual one) and later he said it was because he was concerned about the way I switch gears based on his ear alone 😂
Thankfully I got a new job and will be looking at getting an EV and I'm happy you covered them!
Unless I'm parked, idling, I am always on the foot-brake. If I'm in an automatic, I'll leave it in drive.
I did not know of the trick to make sure your handbrake is taking the weight on a hill. I might start doing that unless I forget it.
After coming to a standstill in front off a traffic light leave the car in drive, the reason being that every time you change to neutral or park you activate the transmission brake bands causing wear in the he gearbox for no reason just keep your foot on the brake until the traffic light turns green and proceed if safe to do so, also by keeping your foot on the brake paddel you are using the cars strongest brake system, all four wheels are locked, this gives the greatest resistance in case of a rear end collision. The automatic gearbox with a torque converter has no problem being left in D for Drive at idle after a vehicle has come to a standstill.
Hi Richard, just want to say I really thank you for your tutorial videos. I actually live in the US and have always dreamed of owning a 6 speed MT WRX. Was always afraid at first to try to master manual transmissions, but with your videos, it gave me the confidence to drive manual. Well, a week ago I bought my dream car and am getting better everyday driving it thanks to all your tutorial videos. Still reviewing videos I've watched and looking for more from your channel to get better. Thank you for all that you do!
Congrats bro, which gen of WRX did you choose? I really wanted a first gen but they are starting to get expensive
I have benn driving real cars now since 1997 and growing older now thinking about getting an automatic. I had no idea how many little things are at play in an automatic as well. Thanks a lot for your insights!
I was taught old school and after nearly 50 years of driving still adhere to applying the handbrake at traffic lights or long stops , it may not now be a requirement but with modern cars having high level LED brake lights it's respectful to not blind the person following you especially at night.....maybe consideration for other road users should be put back on the test.
That was nicely explained. As a retired instructor who now has a Kia Automatc Manual Transmission (they call it AMT) I always put it in neutral for a prolonged stop as I am not sure how much the clutch separates from flywheel so neutral stops any creep. For your information, not sure if this is unique to Kia but my AMT does not have P but if I turn the engine off with selector in D or R it locks transmission. Neither salesman nor service department advised me of this with both saying the handbrake had to meet specifications, I dont like relying on handbrake on hills but as you suggest, let handbrake hold it then transmission as back up.
@6:20 FYI: Your estimation of 30 seconds to one minute before the clutch is "toast" only applies to a "dry clutch". The DCT type of automated manuals usually have a "wet clutch" that is constantly bathed in oil. There is very little wear even when abused somewhat.
On the contrary, the six-speed VW dual clutch automated manual has a wet clutch. Clutch particles enter the oil and then the mechatronic unit which can cause it to fail. So sometimes a wet clutch can cause more harm than good.
@@ConquerDriving That’s just one particular example of a poorly designed wet clutch system. One bad example isn’t representative of all of them.
I had a 2012 Fiat 500 5 speed manual and the pressure plate fingers broke twice in 60,000 miles where the clutch wouldn’t release when pressing the clutch pedal. I drove 20,000 miles shifting without the clutch the second time it broke.
If I based all manual transmissions on the flimsy Fiat 500 transmission, I’d have to say manual transmissions suck. But obviously one example isn’t representative of the whole.
There are dry and wet clutch systems available.
Usually you know which one you have if you're the owner of the car.
dry ones are a little bit more efficient and cheaper but more prone to wear and heat damage.
In the end, the clutch quality also plays a huge factor. I never had problems with my DCT in my current hyundai (dry) and also not in my past Mercedes (wet) but my Toyota needed a new clutch after a few years (was MMT model, but manuals were equally affected since they had the same weak clutch - it was a known fault in the community).
@@svr5423 My current car is a 7 speed DCT wet clutch (Honda designed). It’s been very reliable, unlike the Ford Power Shift dry clutch DCT, which people have nicknamed the “PowerShit” since they keep self destructing.
I’m sure wet clutches can have problems too, but I’ve only ever had issues with dry ones.
@@ConquerDrivingif gearbox service done on time there a reliable box, plenty of examples out there 15+ years old still going strong with 200k miles
I've driven manuals and ridden motorcycles for a long time, so when I got an Auto for the first time this year, I did joke that there's too many options. I settled on if I'm in heavy traffic or at a long wait, I use the handbrake and neutral on the gearbox because that's what I generally do in a manual and on a bike, so the muscle memory remains, although I do often use the gearbox park in the same way shown here; handbrake first then park, because the similar process to a manual.
The technical details were quite interesting, so thanks for taking the time to actually explain that.
Videos like this are proof (at least to me) that you can never be too experienced to learn something new.
Try not and do that all the time. You will wear out the first gear clutch set, because it always causes an engagment from N to D. That’s why the torque converter takes up the slip while you wait. Just looking out for you. I do the same on my bikes and truck while sitting at a light (manual) just sit in neutral until it’s time to go, not in an automatic however.
Well explained. The only modern automatics I've driven ae the Porsche PDK (in 911s and a Boxster) and DCT in a BMW M2. Both of those are perfectly happy to sit stationary without needing to be put into neutral. One of my cars is a 30-year-old BMW 7-series with a traditional torque converter automatic. I habitually push the gear selector into neutral at traffic lights and pull it back into drive as the lights start changing. And I choose the handbrake when I know I'll be stopped for more than 30 seconds or so. But I never put the car into park unless I'm shutting off the engine, and only then after applying the handbrake and going into neutral to take all load off the transmission. The idea of holding the car in position on the transmission's parking pawl is very uncomfortable for my sense of mechanical sympathy. Imagine how I felt on a trip to the U.S. last year when I discovered that my cousins (and most Americans) never use the parking brake and hold the car when parked up only by putting the transmission in park. As far as they're concerned, the parking brake (or handbrake to you and me) is for emergencies only, and they call it an E-brake. Absolutely crazy!
Just to add more confusion, if your handbrake works on discs rather than drum brakes, when parking on a steep hill with hot brakes make sure you put the car in park (or when the engine is off select first or reverse gear on a manual) as when the discs cool and contract the brake may not be so effective and the car can roll down hill.
Something to add, when it comes to Electric parking brakes, some newer car's (my 2021 Mazda3 does this) Will automatically disengage the parking brake when you touch the accelerator in gear (be it reverse or drive) so long as you have your seatbelt on.
From a mechanical point of view, an automatic gearbox is designed to stay "engaged" when sat still with foot brake on. Doing it the way youve described instructors wanting, neutral and handbrake on, will actually wreck your gearbox. Do NOT pop automatics into neutral when sat still at lights etc.
As a former driving instructor and a lorry driver of 49yrs that drives automatics my pet hate are people that sit in queues in front of me that with their foot on the brakes blinding me with their brake lights. So it's P for me. Good video by the way.
As someone who moved to a CVT hybrid about a year ago, after many years of manual gearboxes, this is very useful information.
However, it is perhaps worth pointing out that if you are sitting in traffic, or at traffic lights, with your foot on the brake, your brake lights are (obviously) on. Even if people keep a sensible distance behind, brake lights can be very bright. I certainly have been behind many cars where the brake lights are bright enough, or positioned in such a way as to be annoying. So, out of courtesy to drivers behind me (especially at night time) I prefer not to have my foot on the brake. In a manual, it's easy; in an automatic there seems to be more to consider.
Overall, so far, I much prefer manuals anyway. e.g. feathering off the brakes when coming to a halt to avoid bonnet dip and give a smooth stop is much easier in a manual because when you are almost stopped, you put the clutch in and the engine is no longer trying to turn the wheels. Not so with an automatic. And, ultimately, I prefer to tell the car what to do, rather than relying on the machine getting it right. Just a personal preference, of course.
You can, on some vehicles, save a tiny amount of fuel by idling in neutral/park. Usually between 0.05-0.15 gallons per hour, or essentially nothing. You can also overheat an automatic by idling in gear for a long time. Idling is usually the time with the most amount of torque converter slip, and more slip = more heat.
So you're the git who freaks me out with your reversing light before pulling off!
@@LG-cz6ls Normally not if people use Neutral, you have to go past reverse to get to Park though.
@@LG-cz6lsbetter than being left unable to see / with a migraine by having stared at brake lights for 5 minutes or more.
@@dungareesareforfools Why are you staring at brake lights?
There are other things a driver can look at, and fixating on one thing is probably not safe.
@@dungareesareforfools And if you can't see, you should not be driving.
I passed 2 days back in first attempt with 5 minors😊
I had never driven car before 3 months.
Thank you so much for very nice videos😊❤
Other than the point about taking your foot off the brake in traffic to avoid dazzling people behind, which is also in the Highway Code, there is an additional safety aspect to having your feet (and hands) off the controls when stationary. If the vehicle is hit by another and your foot is pressing the brake pedal can result in injury compared to the foot being relaxed.
It's the same for manual cars - stopped for any significant time = into neutral and feet off pedals.
Just what I wanted 🤩 Thank you very much. I’m waiting for my automatic driving test and nobody could tell me this. I checked all my driving books and app but all talks about manual. I only found 2 automatic mock tests video Where they didn’t use the N or the hand brake but because at manual you often use it my instructor friend told me it is better to be use on the test. I went for a mock test with a manual instructor (our friend), and he couldn’t tell me this and that was my biggest fear I don’t know what I need to know when I’m waiting. 🙏
Almost like you read my mind!! I had this exact question in my head earlier today as I’m going to Canada in a few days and was wondering what I needed to do with the hire car regarding park and neutral.
Your explanations are so clear and I love the various camera angles. Thank you!
I passed my driving test by the help of your videos.,now i own my new toyota yaris 2024 driving with decipline and confindence🙏🏻
Thank you so much for your videos🙏🏻
High level brake lights are on pretty much all cars now. Brake lights on modern cars are upwards 800 lumens (that’s not far off full beam headlights) so when in a traffic jam, don’t leave your foot on the brake, it is quite literally blinding the people behind you.
Absolutely!
What our when driving manual? Have to hold down the brake pedal when standstill, so the issue remains. Can't just pull the parking brake every time you stop
The "Hold" button will apply the brakes for 3 minutes, after which a warning is given. If this warning is ignored, the E-brake will activate 30 seconds after the warning is given.
The 3 minute timer is reset by pressing the brake pedal.
It's a great feature, and I use it a lot in city traffic. And it's great when waiting in line at the drive-through. :)
At the Canada/USA border there can be delays of 2-3 hours. As traffic creeps forward towards the border checkpoint, it's not uncommon for drivers of automatic vehicles (which is most vehicles) to creep forward on the brakes for the entire wait time...and with no stationary time in neutral either. As denoted by the sea of continuous red brake lights and no tele-tale brief flicker of reversing lights which would occur if shifting between Drive & Neutral or Drive & Park.
Normal, if you shift in and out of neutral all the time, it’s going to toast the 1 st gear clutches, brakes are cheaper than trannies
Reverse is between Neutral and Park, not between Drive and Neutral.
@@urkerab Yes I'm familiar with the P-R-N-D-3-2-1 pattern of automatics. (Sidenote: The 3-2-1 might vary depending on the number of auto gears).
When I wrote about shifting between Drive and Park, I simply left out mentioning the intermediate Neutral & Reverse for brevity. In the same way that if I was talking about shifting say from 3rd to 4th gear in a manual, I'd be leaving out the brief and temporary state of Neutral.
Update: I see however that I was erroneous in stating the flicker of reversing lights when shifting from D to N. Obviously that wouldn't occur since no R is involved.
@@ibs5080 Indeed, this was what I was alluding to.
@@urkerab My apologies for making a bit of a hash of all that. I think my brain must have been in "Neutral" rather than "Drive" but hopefully I've "Reversed" all that now. Anyhow, well spotted!
I have a smart car. If i stop, like at a red light, the car keeps the brake applied without me doing anything. I just stop and then let go of the pedal and it stays. When i want to go, i just press the gas pedal and it starts rolling and releases the brake, and even in a steep hill, there is ZERO rollback. It keeps the brake until enough force is applied from the engine and then it releases it.
When i turn off the car the parking brake applies automatically.
When i start and then start driving, the parking brake is released.
REALLY like this kind of automated systems.
When I took my UK theory test just over 20 years ago now Im sure I remember there being a question regarding why you shouldn't sit on the foot brake and the answer was to avoid dazzling the driver behind.
Now that many cars have led lights, I would have thought that's even more relevant today 😅
Most automatics for some reason have no real way around that - all of mine as per the manual say not to go in and out of parked more often than necessary (I'm guessing due to wear and tear) and not to use park/handbrake as a regular part of driving when waiting in a queue, etc.
I'm not sure whether LED rear lights are better or worse than three 21 W tungsten bulbs (left, centre high-level and right). Either way, at night it destroys my night vision for a while afterwards. I have nasty memories of being stuck in a traffic jam at night due to an accident, with the traffic very occasionally edging forward a few yards. I kept my eyes closed to avoid being dazzled, hoping that I'd still be able to see through my eyelids when the brake lights went out and I knew it was time to move forward a bit. After about 10 minutes of this, the driver of the car behind me, who was also dazzled by the brake lights of the car in front of me, got out and "persuaded" the driver to use his handbrake instead.
@@Mortimer50145 I've seen or heard a few people complain about it lately I'm guessing partly due to the increase in EVs on the road but many automatics and EVs (some premium models aside) aren't designed in a way where there is an equivalent of holding it on the handbrake on a manual and hence having the brake lights go out. Seems weird given the advice in the highway code but that is the way it is.
Found your channel by accident today. Having been driving for 60 years, in both autos and manual, I only discovered the robotised autos about 5 years ago. Someone informed me about the clutch plate and how holding the car on the handbrake while in D would cause damage. It was a Vauxhall Corsa auto hired car. Since that time I have been very wary of this type of auto transmission. The subject was nicely explained in this video. Well done. Separately , I dislike the practice of holding the car for long periods on the footbrake, while dazzling other motorists, especially at night. You may have this covered in another video.
I had an old 20 year old automatic with a 4 speed torque converter. It was easier to put it in neutral with the hand brake on when I was in traffic, as the hand brake was a bit naff, and in drive, it had enough torque to still pull the car forward.
I now drive a 2020 Seat Ateca with a 7 speed DCT, and I can just leave it in drive when driving about town, as it has lift off neutral, and when stationary with the hand brake on, stays in neutral with start stop. Doesn't move until I touch the accelerator.
Why would you put the park brake on? Just put it in park if you're tired of holding the brake pedal (you could also shut off the engine at this point). With your new car you probably have the brake hold feature, which holds the brakes for you until you press on the gas
Park brake should be only for parking on a hill
@@demagab just something I was taught that I still do.
New car is just a flick of a switch.
@@Xaid0nTT keep in mind that flicking that switch makes two electric motors turn hard enough to hold in the brake calipers and then again to release them.. it's not good for them and personally I don't even use it for parking unless I'm on a hill.
I would rather use the brake hold function (if available) which just holds the brake by other means (it's designed for frequent use)
Great video... Picking up my first ever automatic car this week after 23years of only driving manual. Your videos help alot !
Putting the parking brake on while waiting in traffic must be a purely British thing and honestly, I don't think they are designed to be set and released that often (stretches cables or wears the brake electric motors). The rest of the world just waits with the foot on the brake unless the wait becomes really long.
Also letting off the brake pedal causes the brake lights to turn off and vehicles coming from behind may not realize immediately you are stopped.
In a manual you may want to put it in neutral right away because holding the clutch down causes damage to it. In automatics it was always suggested to avoid shifting frequently D/N because it would wear the transmission clutches more (with every gear change), while newer automatics, instead, do it automatically every time you hold the brakes down well enough (maybe to save fuel at the expense of reliability). EVs/hybrids kind of do the same, as you showed, but in this case it's more than legit.
The brake hold function seems to be designed right for traffic, although I wouldn't trust it alone especially when downhill, as accidentally touching the gas or maybe in case of power loss, causes the brakes to release and the car to move forward. This function keeps the brakes light on all the time for safety.
And in that car, just prodding the accelerator starts the movement forward at the same time as releasing the brake. In “parking brake”, it applies the rear brake pads, clamped on to the disc, whereas in “brake hold”, it’s the front end with light power on to the traction motor, so it’s live and ready to go when required. It's also supposed to prevent rolling backwards on a rising gradient. A brisk start from rest in the traffic - so don’t try too early, if a bit close to the one in front. Alright, it only crawls forward at walking pace if you just tap it, so if the worst happens one should be able to brake again and stop in time.
It is good to see you have this knowledge and understanding of mechanics. I have purchased many automatics in the manual handbrake era where the handbrake was seized or just didn't work through a complete lack of use. I took one on a test drive, parked up to have a look under the bonnet when the engine was warm but I applied the manually operated hand "parking" brake. When we went to pull away I released the handbrake but, because it had not been used for so long it hand jammed on. Fortunately, it was not very efficient due to rust etc so I drove it back with the handbrake on, gave them the keys back and walked away.
Footbrake for long waits in traffic sucks for people behind your SUV getting blinded by eye level brake lights ...
Well… driving an SUV sucks for everyone else, so there’s that 😂
Started my driving in manual gear car. switched to auto after 6 years or so but still used N and hand brake to stop it for 7 years. With a DSG since 11 years now, still N and hand brake at traffic lights. Safe!!!. If one is attentive to what's happening in front of the car than immersed in mobile phone, he/she can move quick enough - quicker than a manual gear car.
You are holding your car with foot brake and gear in D, if someone hits from behind, the reflex would be to move your foot and car would run on to the car in front as it is in D.
There are also a few videos from traffic cameras when the driver collapsed while waiting at the lights and car moved into the oncoming traffic since it was on D.
One thing i have noticed in UAE where I live, quite a few cars have only one main brake light glowing or even only the one on the rear windscreen with both the main brake lights blown. That could be the result of prolonged glowing of brake lamps when you hold the car with the foot brake that most drivers use here. Reason could be Brake lamp bulbs are not designed to burn continuous unlike headlamps, parking lamps or fog lamps.
Thank you, Richard! This has been very informative and superbly clear.
I consider myself a car buff (... I used to be more, nowadays probably not on that scale but still ...) and I wasn't aware of all those mechanical details. Thanks again!
Just about to get a Toyota automatic hybrid. I will be parking on a hill and this will be very useful to know. Brake. Handbrake. Neutral. When on handbrake, into park. Nice!
Thank you soooo much Richard for the amazing and expertly communicated driving videos! I passed my test today and your channel has been so helpful, couldn't have done it without you! Very happy and thanks :)
That's fantastic news! Thank you for watching and congratulations on passing!
Great video! For someone like me, who is thinking about buying my first car with automatic transmission, (also a Toyota hybrid), this was very informative. Thanks a lot!
Yes I passed my test in an auto and never apply handbrake or put it in neutral or park at traffic lights. However I still think that everybody should still have to pass a test when they want to drive an automatic, even though they have passed a manual driving test. That's why there are so many accidents with older people driving an automatic cos they think. I can drive a manual I'm okay.
Good advise in an area where a lot of people are confused. I have an automatic torque converter where the question is usually, what is Neutral for. I only use Neutral when I go through the car wash, since the car wash will be pulling the car along so I definitely don't want it in Drive or Park and I want to keep the engine on so that the direction of wheels can more easily be manipulated. And like someone else pointed out, you can use Neutral when your car breaks down, but these days the breakdown service puts your car on a flatbed truck, they don't pull them around anymore.
In regards to the robotized manuals (clutched automatics I like to call them), whether it will do any harm when off the footbrake with the handbrake on depends on whether the car has a creep function. Some do, and will begin to move forward slowly when you release the footbrake. Many, however, don't, at least in my experience. They will sit there and do nothing when you release the footbrake, same as in a manual car. You have to apply throttle to get the car to start moving. The ones that fall into this latter category will not have the same problem with overheating the clutches when off the footbrake with the handbrake on.
you just described diesel vs petrol xd, if is diesel it will move, if is petrol it won't
@@jonisman2 perhaps that is what you have experienced. I've never driven a diesel vehicle, so all of my experience is with petrol powered vehicles.
@@quinnobi42 maybe, I have driven both, a diesel will move only with the clutch (sure if you want to move faster you need to press the gas pedal), also automatics/ robotized manuals, my dad's C4 (1.6 diesel) gets to around 7 km/h withiut touching the gas pedal
Sure is not ideal but they do it nonetheless
Note: moving away only with the clutch will tear it faster so, I never actually do it (only at suuper low speeds like to park and stuff)
@@jonisman2 You can get going in a petrol car using only the clutch, you just have to be a bit more careful. I once managed to get into 3rd without touching the accelerator, just for a laugh.
Worst feeling you can have behind a wheel (except for health or accident issues) is a Torque Convertor go. I had a brand new Taxi about 30 years ago, and on my way to Heathrow I pulled away at the lights, or at least the cab made the noise as if it was going to pull away. People love to honk their horn at ya as if there was anything I could do! Alas I couldn't go anywhere, and the garage (A main dealer for Taxis then) told me I would have to wait 3 weeks as they never had any in stock! I now have a CVT Auto Gearbox car ( Retired from cabbing) so I am thankful to you for showing me how to make the gearbox last longer! Liked and Subbed!
And they say manuals are confusing.
I'm watching this video because for all my life I'm driving manual so now bought automatic and it's so different 😂 I have to get used to this
This was really helpful. I've just got my first automatic and definitely needed some of these top tips. I also often have to park on a hill so the bonus handbrake tip is also great.
I love your videos and have been working through them to 'modernise' my driving as I have just turned 73 and I have to prepare for what I have to face when I am 75. I think that driving my Fiat 500 has much improved as a result🙂 It has a VERY quirky software system and the auto gearbox uses drive bands that overheat if if use it incorrectly giving me all sorts of errors. I was locked in reverse only once! (It ran okay after cooling down!)
I think I have spotted a small error in this video though...
I followed your advice and watched the background and it seems to me that the back of car rises a lot and the front goes down a little, which seems to be the reverse of what you said in the video. I
hope I have helped with this comment.
At least you have the opportunity to correct at least me or the video as appropriate
When I was facing uphill, I put the handbrake on then selected neutral and came off the brake. The back would have raised and the front would have dipped as the car wants to roll back but the rear wheels are locked. But in drive with the handbrake on when I come off the brake the front raises and the back dips as the car wants to move forwards using the front wheels but the rear wheels are locked. I hope that clears it up. Thank you for watching.
I have a robotised (s-tronic) automatic that I bought in 2010; the gears definitely spin when in Drive but the clutch isn't engaged when the brake is pressed. If I release the brake quickly on a hill I'll roll back slightly, but if I release it slowly the gearbox will catch it so I don't. Neutral definitely lowers the engine tone / stops those gears spinning, but I've only popped it into Neutral when I've been waiting for extended periods. She's completed 162k miles and still drives like a charm 😀
I am on my second gearbox though (the first one blew up randomly under warranty - not my fault!)
The Highway Code says. In stationary queues of traffic drivers should apply the PARKING BRAKE and once the following traffic has stopped TAKE THE FOOT OF THE FOOTBRAKE to deactivate the vehicle brake lights. This will minimise glare to road users behind until the traffic moves again. This is more important than ever with the very bright high level lights on modern cars. 😡😡😡😡😡🤠
That doesn’t make sense. Guy behind you may think you’re creeping and you won’t be ready to move off and frustrate everyone else. It’s insane how different is driving in real life to what they make instructors teach. When I passed my manual last year, I had a couple of lessons where you learn how to drive in real world - highly recommended to new drivers that passed. Another thing they should teach is that you need to predict that most drivers are knobheads that want to kill others - especially on the motorway.
@@philamour I have been driving for over 35 years and never had someone run up the back of me because my brake lights went out after I applied my handbrake. So your statement suggests that you ether have not read the Highway Code or choose to ignore it. 😡🤠
My toyota has an automatic handbrake, to apply I need to put it in park 🤣
If you put the hand break on your break lights will come on anyway unless you turn the engine off
What would the glare do?! Give the one coming up behind you the idea you are either braking or standing still?........which you are..
I only experience glare an inconvenience where unwarranted fog reat lights and main beams are concerned, brake light glare makes you pay attention to possibly imminent danger.
exceptional commentary. your passion and love for the driving shows.
its a pleasure watching your videos.
everyday is a school day and with you its so much to learn despite being an experienced driver.
Oh wow, I was certainly never taught to shift to parking and engage the parking brake when standing in traffic - seems pretty unsafe on first thought, someone's bound to get careless or frustrated while you're disengaging the brake!
I mean, what are they going to do, read end you?
Also, the reversing lights will flash as it is shifted from park to drive and vice versa, which might be concerning for drivers behind!
I've been driving since 17 now 64 and have always put my Hanbrake ON and shifted into neutral when waiting at traffic lights, I've only ever had to replace a Clutch once many year's ago. So it definitely saved me a fortune in Clutch,Pressure plate,Thrust bearing and Flywheel replacements. All my vehicles have been fairly high mileage when I've replaced them usually due to rust or just getting too old.
My current car is a little 1.4Ltr Diesel Toyota Manual with 125,000 Miles on it with no signs of Clutch wear just yet.
@@04smallmj not on all autos ;-) . My Merc has an electric column shift with forwards/neutral/backwards and PARK ..... it doesn't shift through reverse from Drive/PARK to get to Reverse as it might have done on other cars
My 2016 VW Passat wagon a DSG gearbox and a start/stop system. I just leave it in D at the stoplights with my foot on the brake because my car's engine will shut off automaticly, and when the light turns green I just let go off the brake, the engine will start again and I press the accelerator to resume my journey. The hill assist is very nice too, makes the car almost foolproof to drive. 300,000 KM's and still going strong.
@9:54 "In neutral the hybrid system can't charge the battery". This is absolutely, 100% incorrect. The hybrid battery is charged by the motor-generator that is connected to the flywheel. The motor-generator is also what starts the engine as there isn't a hybrid made by any manufacturer in the world that has a normal 12 volt starter. ALL HYBRIDS are started with the high voltage battery spinning the motor attached to the flywheel, which then turns into a generator once the engine is running and begins charging the hybrid battery regardless of what gear it's in.
You might be confusing that with regenerative charging. In neutral, you won't be able to recuperate the kinetic energy back into the battery. But that is not the same as "the system can't charge the battery in neutral".
This is a note from Toyota: If you’re in stop-start traffic, don’t put the car in neutral (‘N’) when stationary, as electricity will not be generated, and the hybrid battery will use up its charge.
@@ConquerDriving It’s nonsense. Toyota uses MG1 to charge the hybrid battery and MG2 to recuperate kinetic energy (regenerative braking).
I’m a retired automotive engineer with a 30 year career with Ford, General Motors and BMW at the end. At Ford, we dismantled the Prius and reverse engineered it for our own knowledge. There aren’t many people other than Toyota who knows Toyota’s hybrid system better than me.
That quote supposedly from the Toyota owners manual is absolute nonsense.
@@ConquerDriving The WeberAuto (Weber University) UA-cam channel has a very good tutorial on Toyota’s hybrid system if you want a verifiable source of information other than a “random” commenter (me).
Edit:
I just posted a friendly "video response" on my channel showing my hybrid car charging in neutral with technical instruments connected to the computer showing the power flow. Cheers.
"the hybrid battery will use up its charge" - it takes like half an hour for that to happen though and as the other person posted, neutral gear won't simply prevent the engine coming on to recharge the battery if it drops too low. And that in turn generally happens to prevent damage to the hybrid battery.
Having just moved to a hybrid, this has been a clear and massive help. Thank you! 😀