Is it true that moving the automatic transmission lever from D to R must be slow? This is the expert’s answer
Please note: Is it true that shifting the automatic transmission lever must be done slowly?
Many automatic car drivers often hear suggestions for moving the transmission lever from the D (drive) position to the R (reverse) or vice versa slowly. This assumption arises because of concerns about damage to components in the transmission system. However, is it true that the speed in shifting the transmission lever is the main factor that determines the health of the car?
Experts in various car repair shops provide explanations regarding this matter. According to Hasan Ariyanto, the owner of the Mandiri Auto Klaten car repair shop, it is important for the driver not to rush when operating the transmission lever. Although speed is not a major problem, rushing habits can cause damage to components.
“The point is not fast or slow in shifting the transmission lever, but in a hurry, drivers tend to do small habits but can damage components,” Hasan explained.
He explained that when he was parking, the driver often rushed without making sure the car had stopped. This can have a negative impact on the transmission system. For example, when the car is moving backwards and wants to be advanced, the driver should not immediately move the transmission lever from R to D without making sure the car actually stops.
the risk of changing the direction of the speed without stopping
Aji Dwi Nugroho, Foreman at the AHA Motor Yogyakarta Car Workshop, emphasized that changing the direction of the car must be done correctly. He suggested that the driver make sure the vehicle actually stops before changing the transmission lever from D to R or vice versa.
“Make sure the vehicle really stops, before changing the position from D to R or vice versa, use the N position, but the car must stop first, then the direction of the car is changed,” said Aji.
Mahfud, the owner of the GK Auto Service Car Workshop Gunung Kidul, added that one of the consequences of changing the direction of the car’s speed without stopping first was that it could make the car unable to go. This happens because the planetary gear components are damaged, especially the sun gear.
Sun gear is part of the planetary gear set that is the focus of the drive shaft in determining the direction of rotation and the ratio of acceleration on the gearbox. If the shaft is damaged, there will be tension in the transmission system.
“The planetary gear will be damaged, because the axis is made to withstand the torsional force when the direction of rotation changes, the speed of the car’s wheels is reversed, but the transmission is asked to go forward, this will cause tension,” explained Mahfud.
The speed of shifting the lever is not always risky
Although there is a risk, if the driver shifts the transmission lever quickly, the car has stopped, the risk is smaller. This is due to the fact that the lever is only as a lever in the transmission which is connected by a cable.
“Want to be very slow, or fast when shifting the transmission lever, as long as the car has stopped, the components are in contact, it doesn’t necessarily change the amount of friction on the lever,” said Mahfud.
Thus, the assumption that shifting the automatic car transmission lever must be carried out slowly inappropriately. The important point is when the driver shifts the lever to change the direction of the car’s speed. Make sure the car is completely stopped before changing the position of the transmission lever. In this way, the driver can avoid damage to the transmission components and maintain optimal car performance.
