What should you do in a vehicle with an automatic transmission before changing gears?

In a vehicle with an automatic transmission, it is essential to always come to a full stop before changing gears. This practice is crucial for the safe operation of the vehicle and helps prevent damage to the transmission. Automatic transmissions are designed to engage and disengage gears smoothly at lower speeds, and attempting to shift gears while moving can lead to mechanical wear or failure.

When the vehicle comes to a complete stop, the transmission is allowed to safely transition from one gear to another without the risk of damaging internal components. This is particularly important when shifting from Drive to Reverse or vice versa, as doing so while the vehicle is moving can cause serious strain on the system.

Understanding this principle is vital for safe driving and enhances the longevity of the vehicle’s transmission. While there are other methods of shifting, such as shifting without stopping or engaging the parking brake, these practices are not appropriate for automatic transmissions and can lead to unsafe driving conditions or mechanical issues.