New and experienced drivers can learn about shifting gears with semi-automatic cars.Semi-automatics don't have a clutch pedal making them easier to use.Pull the lever when you want to change the mode or gear of your car.The sound of the car's engine is what this is done by.Anyone can learn how to drive a semi- automatic car with a little practice.
Step 1: To start the engine, turn the key in the car's ignition.
Most semi-automatic cars don't need any special treatment to start.You should hold down the brake pedal to make sure the car doesn't move as you shift it into gear.The parking brake is engaged when the gearshift is set to "P."
Step 2: Next to you, look for the gearshift.
The gearshift is in the center of the car.There is a stick labeled with letters and symbols.You use this to change gears.The symbols will light up on the dashboard to remind you of what mode the car is in.Steering wheel paddles are used in some cars.There are two paddles on the right and left.
Step 3: The gearshift should be moved back if you need to reverse.
The gearshift's "R" stands for reverse.Release the brake and the car will back up.
Step 4: To engage the gears, put the car into drive.
The letter D stands for drive.As soon as you let go of the brake, the car will start moving.You will start out in the first gear.When shifting, you can move the lever past neutral.This isn't a gear and is rarely used.
Step 5: The gearshift needs to be moved to the manual transmission.
Depending on the car, you can see an "M" or a spot to shift the lever between a + and - sign.You control the gears manually.Don't shift gears yet, just move the lever down and over.
Step 6: Before shifting gears, begin driving forward.
The car can go forward and pick up speed if the brake is removed.Listen to the engine as you drive the car.As you begin driving, the car will be in 1st gear, but you will need to shift gears as it picks up speed.
Step 7: Push up on the gear shift.
Go up one gear by moving the gearshift towards the sign.You should do this whenever the engine makes a high-pitched sound.It will be easier for you to recognize this sound if you drive the car more.Some cars have a + paddle on the right side of the steering wheel that you can use to increase the gear.The rule for shifting gears is to change every 15 mph.When you drive between 15 to 30 mph, switch to 2nd gear.If your car has a tachometer, it's a good idea to shift the gears.
Step 8: Before shifting, let go of the gas pedal.
When you are slowing down and need to decrease the gear, take off the gas pedal.This will lead to a safe and seamless transition to the lower gear for your car.Shifting up a gear doesn't require you to let off the gas.
Step 9: Lower the gear when you pull back on the shift.
The sign is always towards you.If you can avoid it, you should always slow down as you decrease speed.You will hear the engine sputtering.The speed and RPM indicators are indicators to watch.When you fall back to 15 mph or 1,000 RPMs, shift to 1st gear.On the left side of the steering wheel, look for the paddle.Pull it towards you.
Step 10: Before neutralizing the car, bring it to a stop.
When you reach 1st gear, press the brake to slow the car down.It is safe to shift into neutral once the car stops.The gearshift should be moved towards the N.Pull the + and - paddles to put the car into neutral.
Step 11: The parking brake should be engaged before turning off the car.
The letter P is next to the gearshift.Turn the key in the ignition to turn off the engine.It is safe to exit the car now.