​Generally, most people prefer automatic transmission vehicles because they make driving easier. The automatic system performs a vital function that a driver would otherwise have to undertake manually. It executes gear changes automatically as you drive.

Vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions have a launch control feature. The feature allows you to get a good start when you want to zoom off and leave other drivers behind. With manual gearboxes, you are in charge of launching the car.

To keep the automatic transmission system running smoothly, you must avoid mistakes, such as building the revs up when your car is in neutral and switching to drive 'D". This causes harm to the gearbox and gives a jerky launch. To launch an automatic transmission vehicle correctly, keep it in Drive, then depress the brake pedal, build several revs, and to launch, let go of the brake pedal. Also, launching a car too frequently may affect the engine and gearbox components.

When the car is in neutral, you are not in full control, and should a potential hazard suddenly show up; you might not have enough time to react. Also, the neutral position damages your car transmission because it blocks the oil supply. Because of the lack of proper lubrication, the vehicle's smooth transmission process slows down. The subsequent wear and tear might damage your car, whose repair cost might exceed the value of fuel saved.

Similar to manual cars, putting the automatic vehicle into reverse without first stopping can lead to gearbox failure. When you shift gears, the mechanism uses a transmission band and clutches to make the shifting. Therefore, switching from "D" to "R" (or vice versa) should only come after a complete halt. Switching when in motion causes unnecessary wear and tear.

The "P" mode in automatic transmission cars shifts the transmission to a parking mode. This disables your vehicle from moving either forward or backward. When the lever is shifted to "P" to stop the cog from rotating, the 'gearbox uses a parking pawl which then disables the car from all movement. However, when you do the shifting in a moving car, it damages the transmission. Avoid this practice unless the vehicle is stationary.

Avoid driving your vehicle hard without warming up the engine, particularly during winter. When the weather is cold, engine oil thickens and moves slowly. Let the engine run for a while so that the fuel runs into the transmission system and all its components. Shifting into gear and rapidly driving at high speed may lead to severe internal engine damage.

To run properly, an automatic car depends on fluid pressure. The fuel also helps the engine and other components to stay lubricated and cool. So, to avoid faster engine wear, avoid keeping the oil tank gauge low.

Finally, avoid driving your automatic car through deep water. As they get cold or hot, fluids in the automatic transmission system contract and expand. The transmission is equipped with a vent that helps relieve any built-up pressure. When you drive through deep water, water can be sucked into the transmission via the vent. If you are lucky, you might successfully flush out the water. Otherwise, the transmission gets destroyed and needs replacing.

​Serving as general manager with Currie Motors Auto Group, Leo Sfikas delivers sustained results across a range of Illinois auto dealership locations. At Currie Chevy, Leo Sfikas and his team feature a full range of popular vehicles, from the midsize Malibu sedan to the heavy-duty Chevrolet Silverado truck.

Announced in September 2022, the full range of 2023-model-year vehicles from Chevy (except the Express) will come with a standard three-year Remote Access Plan, replacing the OnStar Connected Vehicle plan, which costs $24.99 per month. The new Plan syncs with the MyChevrolet App and the remote key fob. Its primary features include remote door locking and unlocking, remote starting and stopping of the vehicle, and remote horn activation.

The Remote Access Plan allows for real-time diagnostics, status, location, and navigation uses that keep the vehicle secure and protect its integrity. The seamless functionality does come with a price. Customers will see an increase in MSRP of $300 to reflect the inclusion of the Plan. Nonetheless, connected features are essential to purchasers of new EVs, who rely on the Ultium Charge 360 system and the newly introduced payment platform Plug and Charge.