Auctions that offer junk cars for sale are a boon for people looking for affordable cars from a wide range of makes and models. You are also spoiled for choice whether you want a manual or automatic transmission. Although automatic transmissions have been around for a long time, there is a lot that some drivers still get wrong when behind the wheel. Exercising due care while driving not only prevents accidents but also saves you from costly repairs and parts. To help you stay on top of the situation, we’re sharing a few things you need to avoid when driving an automatic transmission car.


1. Shifting from drive to reverse while in motion

You must avoid shifting from drive to reverse while the car is still moving. Such reckless action can result in significant damage to the car whose repairs can easily run into a couple of thousand dollars.

2. Getting into ‘park’ before the car stops

Another thing to avoid is putting your vehicle into ‘park’ before it comes to a complete stop. Doing so may result in the breaking of the locking pin or output shaft. This is because when you put the car in ‘park’, a pin acts to lock the transmission output shaft. Stress is then exerted on these components if you put the car in park while it is still moving.

3. Coasting in neutral

Contrary to the belief by some that automatic vehicles continue to consume fuel even when going downhill, the engine is designed in such a way as to cut the fuel supply when going downhill. This means there is no need to put the car in neutral when going downhill.

4. Keeping the gas tank on low

It is not advisable to run your vehicle while the gas tank is on low, especially if it has an automatic transmission. This is because cars need the correct fluid pressure and the fuel also works to keep various parts lubricated. Constantly running on low fuel will result in premature wear and tear of these parts, costing you more than just a full tank.

5. Putting your car into neutral at the stop light

Although it is a habit of many, putting your car into neutral at the stop light is ill-advised. The reason is that it takes control away from you in case you want to execute an emergency maneuver to evade an accident.

Final word

There are other definite don’ts when it comes to an automatic transmission, including letting any amount of water into the transmission. When looking for the best deals at salvage car auctions, you can rely on AutoBidMaster. Choose from an exhaustive range of repairable cars for sale that features lots of options with automatic transmissions. Call us today at + 1 (503) 298 4300 to discuss your requirement or get answers to all your questions on junk cars for sale.

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