Driving an automatic car in the UK is considerably more straightforward than mastering a manual gearbox.
By eliminating the clutch and manual gear, automatics let you focus on steering, observation, and anticipation—particularly useful on busy British roads.
This guide covers everything from controls and starting procedures to junctions, parking, and licence considerations.
1. Understanding Automatic Controls
Automatic cars have only two pedals:
- Accelerator (right)
- Brake (left)
There is no clutch pedal. Instead of an H-pattern gearstick, you select from:
- P (Park): Locks the transmission. Always engage when stationary and exiting, then apply handbrake.
- R (Reverse): For reversing—operate like reverse in a manual.
- N (Neutral): Disengages drive; use only when stationary (e.g., in heavy traffic), always with the handbrake.
- D (Drive): Engages forward gears. The gearbox shifts automatically based on speed and throttle.
Some automatics also offer S (Sport) or L/1/2 (Low) modes for engine braking or towing on steep hills.
2. Pre-Drive Preparation
Before moving off:
- Adjust seat for full pedal travel and clear sightlines.
- Set all mirrors (interior and nearside/offside) for maximum visibility.
- Fasten seatbelt and ensure passengers do likewise.
- Engage the handbrake.
3. Starting and Moving Off
- Foot on brake pedal.
- Start engine (turn key or push-button).
- With brake still depressed, shift to D (or R for reversing).
- Release handbrake. The car will ‘creep’ forward or backward.
- Gently transfer foot to accelerator, applying power smoothly to avoid jerky movement.
Key tip: Keep heel planted and use your right foot for both pedals. Avoid using the left foot to brake, as this can unsettle the car’s balance.
4. Changing Speed and Stopping
- Accelerating: Press the accelerator gradually; the gearbox will up-shift automatically.
- Decelerating: Ease off the accelerator; the gearbox down-shifts to match lower speed. If you need to slow more quickly, press the brake pedal firmly but progressively to avoid unsettling passengers.
- Coming to a halt: Apply the brake until stationary. Remain in D with foot on brake if stopping momentarily (e.g., traffic lights).
5. Reversing and Parking
- To reverse, ensure car is fully stopped, then shift to R with your foot on the brake.
- Steer in the direction you want the rear to go—remember that steering input is mirrored compared to moving forward.
- For parking: at stationary, shift to P, apply handbrake, then switch off the engine.
6. Junctions and Roundabouts
Turning Left
- Approach in second gear (unless very slow), signal early, check mirrors and blind spot, then steer into the left lane smoothly.
Turning Right at T-Junctions
- On closed junctions (limited visibility), select first gear before creeping forward to improve your view.
- On open junctions, slow in second gear, observe both directions, then complete the turn when clear.
Always position left of centre before turning and yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
Roundabouts
- Approach in D, brake to a safe speed, signal according to exit, and choose the correct lane.
- Give way to traffic from the right; then accelerate gently once on the roundabout.
7. Hill Starts and Low-Speed Control
Most automatics feature creep function, reducing the need for manual hill-start techniques. However:
- Engage L or 1/2 mode on steep inclines for increased engine braking.
- If the car rolls back slightly, simply ease off the brake and press the accelerator gently.
- Always keep sufficient space behind you to allow the car’s creep function to operate safely.
8. Licence Considerations
- Automatic-only licence (Category B auto): Restricts you to driving automatics only. The licence will carry code “78” to indicate this.
- To gain a full manual licence, you must pass a practical test in a manual car; no theory retest is required. Book via DVSA phone booking.
9. Final Tips for Smooth Automatic Driving
- Anticipate traffic flow; let the gearbox do the shifting—avoid ‘ride the brake’ habits.
- Use the handbrake when stationary, not N alone.
- Observe fuel-efficient driving: gentle acceleration and coasting (in N only when stopped) can improve mpg.
- Practice makes perfect: Spend time in quiet areas building confidence before tackling busy urban roads.
Mastering an automatic car in the UK is about combining smooth car control with good roadcraft. With practice, the simplification of gear changes lets you concentrate on anticipation and positioning—key skills for safe, confident driving.
