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Automatic
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
|
A while ago I posted about buying a car while my vauxhall was out of action and it being automatic transmission...
Today is the day, Percy the Peugeot car is home and sat on my drive, I've not given it eye contact yet! And I have super anxiety about driving it because I've never driven an automatic before.....
Going through all levels of hell.
It has two pedals a funny knob and I'm confused, my son is saying horrible things like 'don't mistake the brake for the clutch' and my daughter in law is threatening to drive me and the car into the middle of nowhere and leave us there...
I think I am overthinking and that is never a good thing.
Help  |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Can you go for a ride out with your daughter -in-law for added confidence?
Take a deep breath, and go for it. You'll be used to it in no time and love it. |
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By *rtyIanMan
over a year ago
Gateway to the Beacons |
"A while ago I posted about buying a car while my vauxhall was out of action and it being automatic transmission...
Today is the day, Percy the Peugeot car is home and sat on my drive, I've not given it eye contact yet! And I have super anxiety about driving it because I've never driven an automatic before.....
Going through all levels of hell.
It has two pedals a funny knob and I'm confused, my son is saying horrible things like 'don't mistake the brake for the clutch' and my daughter in law is threatening to drive me and the car into the middle of nowhere and leave us there...
I think I am overthinking and that is never a good thing.
Help "
You’ll be fine young lady
Pop it in drive and off you go |
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"A while ago I posted about buying a car while my vauxhall was out of action and it being automatic transmission...
Today is the day, Percy the Peugeot car is home and sat on my drive, I've not given it eye contact yet! And I have super anxiety about driving it because I've never driven an automatic before.....
Going through all levels of hell.
It has two pedals a funny knob and I'm confused, my son is saying horrible things like 'don't mistake the brake for the clutch' and my daughter in law is threatening to drive me and the car into the middle of nowhere and leave us there...
I think I am overthinking and that is never a good thing.
Help "
you have a brake and an accelerater so fast or slow, the automatic lever, gear shift just puts it into drive, so left foot on brake, right foot on accelerater put car into drive with left foot on brake off you go  |
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Driving a automatic is fine, I don't drive anything else. People do take the mick or make daft comments, no idea why
As has been said go somewhere quiet to practice, remember that your left foot is redundant and always put it in park when you park (who'd have thought!  ) and neutral at the lights.
Good luck and happy motoring  |
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Bend your clutch leg and put your left foot near the front of the driving seat...one of the genuine mistakes made is hitting the brake pedal with your clutch foot...
Take care, and get comfortable with the lack of clutch pedal, you'll be fine.
Someone once said to me that should I have difficulty, take your left shoe off when driving, just to remind you to NOT use your left foot...I never bothered but I can see the virtues! X
Mr |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
|
"Can you go for a ride out with your daughter -in-law for added confidence?
Take a deep breath, and go for it. You'll be used to it in no time and love it."
No way, not after threatening to dump me and Percy in the middle of nowhere |
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By *avie65Man
over a year ago
In the west. |
Think about the two pedals as Go and Stop.
I assume the the funny knob will be for drive, forward, and reverse.
You will get used to it in no time. My car doesn't have a physical hand-brake, it took me a week or so to get used to it, now when I drive a car with a hand-brake lever I forget to pull it on.
I hope you enjoy Percy. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"I've got two pedals and a funny knob, too.
Autos are easy. Step on the gas to go. Step on the brake to stop. Turn the wheel to aim. Simples. "
Turn the wheel to aim. You must be a driving instructor. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Bend your clutch leg and put your left foot near the front of the driving seat...one of the genuine mistakes made is hitting the brake pedal with your clutch foot...
Take care, and get comfortable with the lack of clutch pedal, you'll be fine.
Someone once said to me that should I have difficulty, take your left shoe off when driving, just to remind you to NOT use your left foot...I never bothered but I can see the virtues! X
Mr"
Toppest top tip. Left leg out of the way and it's not as bad as it seems.
Good luck OP. |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
|
"Think about the two pedals as Go and Stop.
I assume the the funny knob will be for drive, forward, and reverse.
You will get used to it in no time. My car doesn't have a physical hand-brake, it took me a week or so to get used to it, now when I drive a car with a hand-brake lever I forget to pull it on.
I hope you enjoy Percy. "
I hired a T-Roc to relocate my son from Edinburgh to London and that had am auto handbrake, I didn't know and it did confuse me for a second |
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"I've got two pedals and a funny knob, too.
Autos are easy. Step on the gas to go. Step on the brake to stop. Turn the wheel to aim. Simples. "
Just don't for get the knob R is back D is Drive forward. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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They can take some getting used to.
Id advise tucking your left leg back and out the way, until you get used to not using it.
The urge is put your foot on the non existent clutch, and instead putting your foot on the brake.
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"Thank you for all the support everyone! I am grateful I have a car back. It's been a long time...I guess it's because it's all new
"
I fully understand.
I had surgery on my eye s while back. I couldn't drive for some time and I am quite nervous about starting again even though I know I can do it.
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By *abioMan
over a year ago
Newcastle and Gateshead |
"A while ago I posted about buying a car while my vauxhall was out of action and it being automatic transmission...
Today is the day, Percy the Peugeot car is home and sat on my drive, I've not given it eye contact yet! And I have super anxiety about driving it because I've never driven an automatic before.....
Going through all levels of hell.
It has two pedals a funny knob and I'm confused, my son is saying horrible things like 'don't mistake the brake for the clutch' and my daughter in law is threatening to drive me and the car into the middle of nowhere and leave us there...
I think I am overthinking and that is never a good thing.
Help "
Imagine basically driving a bumper car… that was the way I got my head around it!!
Also just for now keep the spare hand on your lap cause the instinct is to keep moving it! Lol |
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By *arkus1812Man
over a year ago
Lifes departure lounge NN9 Northamptonshire East not West MidlandsMidlands |
Always owned a manual drive car and have no plans to change, the car I buy this year will also be a manual despite the difficulty in finding one.
I envisage this will be my last car due to my age.
No fun in driving an automatic car.
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"They can take some getting used to.
Id advise tucking your left leg back and out the way, until you get used to not using it.
The urge is put your foot on the non existent clutch, and instead putting your foot on the brake.
"
Most now have a foot rest.
OP we will all soon be driving auto as all electric vehicles are auto it's nice once you get it one foot to pedals and select forwards/drive or r reverse.
|
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"Thank you for all the support everyone! I am grateful I have a car back. It's been a long time...I guess it's because it's all new
I fully understand.
I had surgery on my eye s while back. I couldn't drive for some time and I am quite nervous about starting again even though I know I can do it.
"
Do you have a car |
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"Thank you for all the support everyone! I am grateful I have a car back. It's been a long time...I guess it's because it's all new
I fully understand.
I had surgery on my eye s while back. I couldn't drive for some time and I am quite nervous about starting again even though I know I can do it.
Do you have a car "
Yes I do. |
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"Thank you for all the support everyone! I am grateful I have a car back. It's been a long time...I guess it's because it's all new
I fully understand.
I had surgery on my eye s while back. I couldn't drive for some time and I am quite nervous about starting again even though I know I can do it.
"
Similarly a back injury stopped me driving for years...I ended up having drive vans and lorries as driving a car gradually put me back in so much pain I couldn't get my socks on let alone drive. Lol
OP...Good luck and enjoy! |
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"Thank you for all the support everyone! I am grateful I have a car back. It's been a long time...I guess it's because it's all new
I fully understand.
I had surgery on my eye s while back. I couldn't drive for some time and I am quite nervous about starting again even though I know I can do it.
Do you have a car
Yes I do."
If you want to get back in the seat I would be happy to help.
No funny business the wife would do me in. |
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Took me a while to not want to change gears… my left arm just kept going to it!
I got in the habit of putting it on the empty seat next to me when not needing it… but my friend got a shock when she sat in the front once and I almost lost my hand! Lol |
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"A while ago I posted about buying a car while my vauxhall was out of action and it being automatic transmission...
Today is the day, Percy the Peugeot car is home and sat on my drive, I've not given it eye contact yet! And I have super anxiety about driving it because I've never driven an automatic before.....
Going through all levels of hell.
It has two pedals a funny knob and I'm confused, my son is saying horrible things like 'don't mistake the brake for the clutch' and my daughter in law is threatening to drive me and the car into the middle of nowhere and leave us there...
I think I am overthinking and that is never a good thing.
Help "
Laughing out loud as I've just seen the name of your new Peugeot...
I had an OLD Peugeot (104)...in peppermint green...The Peppermint Pig as it was known locally!
Loved that Pig! |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
|
"Thank you for all the support everyone! I am grateful I have a car back. It's been a long time...I guess it's because it's all new
I fully understand.
I had surgery on my eye s while back. I couldn't drive for some time and I am quite nervous about starting again even though I know I can do it.
"
Oh no! Hope you are OK! Those anxious feelings are horrible x |
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"Thank you for all the support everyone! I am grateful I have a car back. It's been a long time...I guess it's because it's all new
I fully understand.
I had surgery on my eye s while back. I couldn't drive for some time and I am quite nervous about starting again even though I know I can do it.
Do you have a car
Yes I do.
If you want to get back in the seat I would be happy to help.
No funny business the wife would do me in."
Thanks for your offer, Mr N is happy to come on a white knuckle ride with me  |
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"A while ago I posted about buying a car while my vauxhall was out of action and it being automatic transmission...
Today is the day, Percy the Peugeot car is home and sat on my drive, I've not given it eye contact yet! And I have super anxiety about driving it because I've never driven an automatic before.....
Going through all levels of hell.
It has two pedals a funny knob and I'm confused, my son is saying horrible things like 'don't mistake the brake for the clutch' and my daughter in law is threatening to drive me and the car into the middle of nowhere and leave us there...
I think I am overthinking and that is never a good thing.
Help "
£30 pay for an instructor to take you out and help you fine tune your driving.
It will give you so much confidence.
When we get a Land rover you get a half day to learn how to program it its good to polish up skills.
|
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"Thank you for all the support everyone! I am grateful I have a car back. It's been a long time...I guess it's because it's all new
I fully understand.
I had surgery on my eye s while back. I couldn't drive for some time and I am quite nervous about starting again even though I know I can do it.
Oh no! Hope you are OK! Those anxious feelings are horrible x"
Thank you . I'm pretty sure you and I will be absolutely fine |
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"Thank you for all the support everyone! I am grateful I have a car back. It's been a long time...I guess it's because it's all new
I fully understand.
I had surgery on my eye s while back. I couldn't drive for some time and I am quite nervous about starting again even though I know I can do it.
Similarly a back injury stopped me driving for years...I ended up having drive vans and lorries as driving a car gradually put me back in so much pain I couldn't get my socks on let alone drive. Lol
OP...Good luck and enjoy! "
The seating position and getting in and out of cars can be awful for someone with back problems |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
When we all drive EV’s the clutch will be a thing of the past, bit like a c***e(get banned for that word) from years ago.
But automatics are easy to drive.
Get an experienced driver to sit in with you. It may calm your trepidation a little. |
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By *ornyguyMan
over a year ago
Hillsborough, NI |
I used to prefer manuals but once you have a good automatic you won't want to go back.
First time I drove an automatic it creeped me out because I put it in drive and the car started moving on it's own, so that's something to be aware of.
same advice as everyone else, just leave your left leg to relax and do nothing |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Thank you for all the support everyone! I am grateful I have a car back. It's been a long time...I guess it's because it's all new
I fully understand.
I had surgery on my eye s while back. I couldn't drive for some time and I am quite nervous about starting again even though I know I can do it.
Similarly a back injury stopped me driving for years...I ended up having drive vans and lorries as driving a car gradually put me back in so much pain I couldn't get my socks on let alone drive. Lol
OP...Good luck and enjoy!
The seating position and getting in and out of cars can be awful for someone with back problems "
I get in bum first bracing my back on the top of the door arch. Not cool, but long term back pain is no good for lowish cars. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
This was me a year and a bit ago... I think you'll be amazed how quickly you adapt.. And actually its going back to a manual that is the issue
I sold my manual in the end, as I was driving in the same gear and constantly stalling at junctions after only a short time driving the auto... Even though a manual is what I ve driven since 17  |
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"A while ago I posted about buying a car while my vauxhall was out of action and it being automatic transmission...
Today is the day, Percy the Peugeot car is home and sat on my drive, I've not given it eye contact yet! And I have super anxiety about driving it because I've never driven an automatic before.....
Going through all levels of hell.
It has two pedals a funny knob and I'm confused, my son is saying horrible things like 'don't mistake the brake for the clutch' and my daughter in law is threatening to drive me and the car into the middle of nowhere and leave us there...
I think I am overthinking and that is never a good thing.
Help "
If you tuck your left foot under the seat it helps. Its not difficult, just different. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"I've got two pedals and a funny knob, too.
Autos are easy. Step on the gas to go. Step on the brake to stop. Turn the wheel to aim. Simples.
Just don't for get the knob R is back D is Drive forward."
Mine has
R (reverse)
N: I have never used
A: for driving with no regeneration.. When you take your foot off the pedal it keeps hurtling towards the object in front of you
B: regenerative drive (regens when braking)... so when you take your foot off the pedal the car slows |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
|
"Thank you for all the support everyone! I am grateful I have a car back. It's been a long time...I guess it's because it's all new
I fully understand.
I had surgery on my eye s while back. I couldn't drive for some time and I am quite nervous about starting again even though I know I can do it.
Oh no! Hope you are OK! Those anxious feelings are horrible x
Thank you . I'm pretty sure you and I will be absolutely fine "
I am sure we will, thank you x |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
|
"A while ago I posted about buying a car while my vauxhall was out of action and it being automatic transmission...
Today is the day, Percy the Peugeot car is home and sat on my drive, I've not given it eye contact yet! And I have super anxiety about driving it because I've never driven an automatic before.....
Going through all levels of hell.
It has two pedals a funny knob and I'm confused, my son is saying horrible things like 'don't mistake the brake for the clutch' and my daughter in law is threatening to drive me and the car into the middle of nowhere and leave us there...
I think I am overthinking and that is never a good thing.
Help
Laughing out loud as I've just seen the name of your new Peugeot...
I had an OLD Peugeot (104)...in peppermint green...The Peppermint Pig as it was known locally!
Loved that Pig! "
I love it! My Corsa is called Little Colin |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
Cut your left leg off
Many have a step left foot. Put your foot there to start with.
While ppl worry about left footing the break, most don't ... After all, you don't move your foot right to clutch so it's not an automatic reaction to go searching for a pedal the way your right foot does.
When I started it was getting used to my left hand doing stuff. Especially when one has bad habits like one handed driving.
As a guy, I found a way through this. Maybe but a strap on ? |
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"I've got two pedals and a funny knob, too.
Autos are easy. Step on the gas to go. Step on the brake to stop. Turn the wheel to aim. Simples.
Just don't for get the knob R is back D is Drive forward.
Mine has
R (reverse)
N: I have never used
A: for driving with no regeneration.. When you take your foot off the pedal it keeps hurtling towards the object in front of you
B: regenerative drive (regens when braking)... so when you take your foot off the pedal the car slows "
That a EV then not a ICE my Range Rover is
R Reverse
P Park
D Drive
In that order on top of a stick so it's not that you think D should be at the front.
Took some getting use to then on the screen you have.
Mud
Snow
Gravel
Etc |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"I've got two pedals and a funny knob, too.
Autos are easy. Step on the gas to go. Step on the brake to stop. Turn the wheel to aim. Simples.
Just don't for get the knob R is back D is Drive forward.
Mine has
R (reverse)
N: I have never used
A: for driving with no regeneration.. When you take your foot off the pedal it keeps hurtling towards the object in front of you
B: regenerative drive (regens when braking)... so when you take your foot off the pedal the car slows
That a EV then not a ICE my Range Rover is
R Reverse
P Park
D Drive
In that order on top of a stick so it's not that you think D should be at the front.
Took some getting use to then on the screen you have.
Mud
Snow
Gravel
Etc "
Oh you are right! I am EV! |
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"I've got two pedals and a funny knob, too.
Autos are easy. Step on the gas to go. Step on the brake to stop. Turn the wheel to aim. Simples.
Just don't for get the knob R is back D is Drive forward.
Mine has
R (reverse)
N: I have never used
A: for driving with no regeneration.. When you take your foot off the pedal it keeps hurtling towards the object in front of you
B: regenerative drive (regens when braking)... so when you take your foot off the pedal the car slows
That a EV then not a ICE my Range Rover is
R Reverse
P Park
D Drive
In that order on top of a stick so it's not that you think D should be at the front.
Took some getting use to then on the screen you have.
Mud
Snow
Gravel
Etc
Oh you are right! I am EV! "
mmmm we all will be soon I guess
Some how some way. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"I've got two pedals and a funny knob, too.
Autos are easy. Step on the gas to go. Step on the brake to stop. Turn the wheel to aim. Simples.
Just don't for get the knob R is back D is Drive forward.
Mine has
R (reverse)
N: I have never used
A: for driving with no regeneration.. When you take your foot off the pedal it keeps hurtling towards the object in front of you
B: regenerative drive (regens when braking)... so when you take your foot off the pedal the car slows
That a EV then not a ICE my Range Rover is
R Reverse
P Park
D Drive
In that order on top of a stick so it's not that you think D should be at the front.
Took some getting use to then on the screen you have.
Mud
Snow
Gravel
Etc
Oh you are right! I am EV!
mmmm we all will be soon I guess
Some how some way."
Well don't use A, use B  |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
|
"Cut your left leg off
Many have a step left foot. Put your foot there to start with.
While ppl worry about left footing the break, most don't ... After all, you don't move your foot right to clutch so it's not an automatic reaction to go searching for a pedal the way your right foot does.
When I started it was getting used to my left hand doing stuff. Especially when one has bad habits like one handed driving.
As a guy, I found a way through this. Maybe but a strap on ? "
Could be a plan, who needs a left leg anyway
And yeah, I keep thinking about the left foot/right foot thing and the pedals are the same just without a clutch.
And yep, I do tend to hold the steering wheel one handed.
I guess I shall have to suck it and see |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Cut your left leg off
Many have a step left foot. Put your foot there to start with.
While ppl worry about left footing the break, most don't ... After all, you don't move your foot right to clutch so it's not an automatic reaction to go searching for a pedal the way your right foot does.
When I started it was getting used to my left hand doing stuff. Especially when one has bad habits like one handed driving.
As a guy, I found a way through this. Maybe but a strap on ?
Could be a plan, who needs a left leg anyway
And yeah, I keep thinking about the left foot/right foot thing and the pedals are the same just without a clutch.
And yep, I do tend to hold the steering wheel one handed.
I guess I shall have to suck it and see "
I'd suggest you wait until you are confident before introducing sucking. |
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"Cut your left leg off
Many have a step left foot. Put your foot there to start with.
While ppl worry about left footing the break, most don't ... After all, you don't move your foot right to clutch so it's not an automatic reaction to go searching for a pedal the way your right foot does.
When I started it was getting used to my left hand doing stuff. Especially when one has bad habits like one handed driving.
As a guy, I found a way through this. Maybe but a strap on ?
Could be a plan, who needs a left leg anyway
And yeah, I keep thinking about the left foot/right foot thing and the pedals are the same just without a clutch.
And yep, I do tend to hold the steering wheel one handed.
I guess I shall have to suck it and see "
I rest my left foot to the side, a lot of my cars have had a little sorr of step and I usually rest my left hand on the top of the gear stick. Use neutral (if that's an option) at the lights and for hill starts. Otherwise it's P for park, R for reverse and D for drive. |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
|
"Cut your left leg off
Many have a step left foot. Put your foot there to start with.
While ppl worry about left footing the break, most don't ... After all, you don't move your foot right to clutch so it's not an automatic reaction to go searching for a pedal the way your right foot does.
When I started it was getting used to my left hand doing stuff. Especially when one has bad habits like one handed driving.
As a guy, I found a way through this. Maybe but a strap on ?
Could be a plan, who needs a left leg anyway
And yeah, I keep thinking about the left foot/right foot thing and the pedals are the same just without a clutch.
And yep, I do tend to hold the steering wheel one handed.
I guess I shall have to suck it and see I'd suggest you wait until you are confident before introducing sucking. "
I cam multitask  |
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"I've got two pedals and a funny knob, too.
Autos are easy. Step on the gas to go. Step on the brake to stop. Turn the wheel to aim. Simples.
Just don't for get the knob R is back D is Drive forward.
Mine has
R (reverse)
N: I have never used
A: for driving with no regeneration.. When you take your foot off the pedal it keeps hurtling towards the object in front of you
B: regenerative drive (regens when braking)... so when you take your foot off the pedal the car slows
That a EV then not a ICE my Range Rover is
R Reverse
P Park
D Drive
In that order on top of a stick so it's not that you think D should be at the front.
Took some getting use to then on the screen you have.
Mud
Snow
Gravel
Etc
Oh you are right! I am EV!
mmmm we all will be soon I guess
Some how some way.
Well don't use A, use B "
No I was more refusing to charging but we can do that on another Forum. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Cut your left leg off
Many have a step left foot. Put your foot there to start with.
While ppl worry about left footing the break, most don't ... After all, you don't move your foot right to clutch so it's not an automatic reaction to go searching for a pedal the way your right foot does.
When I started it was getting used to my left hand doing stuff. Especially when one has bad habits like one handed driving.
As a guy, I found a way through this. Maybe but a strap on ?
Could be a plan, who needs a left leg anyway
And yeah, I keep thinking about the left foot/right foot thing and the pedals are the same just without a clutch.
And yep, I do tend to hold the steering wheel one handed.
I guess I shall have to suck it and see I'd suggest you wait until you are confident before introducing sucking.
I cam multitask "
of course. The issue with an auto is it reduces multitasking .... |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
|
"Cut your left leg off
Many have a step left foot. Put your foot there to start with.
While ppl worry about left footing the break, most don't ... After all, you don't move your foot right to clutch so it's not an automatic reaction to go searching for a pedal the way your right foot does.
When I started it was getting used to my left hand doing stuff. Especially when one has bad habits like one handed driving.
As a guy, I found a way through this. Maybe but a strap on ?
Could be a plan, who needs a left leg anyway
And yeah, I keep thinking about the left foot/right foot thing and the pedals are the same just without a clutch.
And yep, I do tend to hold the steering wheel one handed.
I guess I shall have to suck it and see I'd suggest you wait until you are confident before introducing sucking.
I cam multitask of course. The issue with an auto is it reduces multitasking .... "
I am sure I will find something to do! |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
|
"The first time I drove an auto, I had to concentrate on not moving my left leg. It’ll become second nature in no time at all, OP."
Thank you, I hope so x |
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By *rHotNottsMan
over a year ago
Dubai & Nottingham |
You’ll be fine. You will love it.
The pedals are dead easy once you realise you only use one foot, its then impossible to accelerate & break at the same time. Just keep your left foot out the way on the foot rest
After a day you’ll wonder how and why you ever drove manuals. |
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By *ustBoWoman
over a year ago
Somewhere in Co. Down |
I drive mostly manual but I had an automatic for a while and to be honest I loved it. They are so easy to drive. Once you don't use your left foot it's grand. They are so easy once you have driven it once you will wonder what you were worried about. It really is super easy. |
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"A while ago I posted about buying a car while my vauxhall was out of action and it being automatic transmission...
Today is the day, Percy the Peugeot car is home and sat on my drive, I've not given it eye contact yet! And I have super anxiety about driving it because I've never driven an automatic before.....
Going through all levels of hell.
It has two pedals a funny knob and I'm confused, my son is saying horrible things like 'don't mistake the brake for the clutch' and my daughter in law is threatening to drive me and the car into the middle of nowhere and leave us there...
I think I am overthinking and that is never a good thing.
Help you have a brake and an accelerater so fast or slow, the automatic lever, gear shift just puts it into drive, so left foot on brake, right foot on accelerater put car into drive with left foot on brake off you go "
Don't listen to this guy!
You don't use your left foot at all when driving an automatic.
Both pedals are done with the right foot.
Put your left foot out of the way, tuck it towards your seat till you get used to driving the new car. You'll be fine an automatic is easier to drive than a manual. |
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By *ornycougaWoman
over a year ago
NORWAY Wherever I lay my hat |
I have always driven a manual. In the last few months I have had to hire vans to move my kids (well their possessions). Both times I had the embarrassment of not being able to drive the van out of the forecourt and having to go and seek help I hate driving them for about half an hour as I just don't know what to do with the left side of my body... Then I relax and wonder why the hell I drive a manual. |
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This is the most British thread I've seen
Mrs Salty is Malaysian so auto is the default.
I've driven all over the world and autos are the only hire cars I can get.
Both have their place. Autos downsides for me are lack of engine braking and loss of full control driving on snow.
OP you'll be fine and as another poster said, pull your left leg well away from the pedals to avoid accidental left foot braking |
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By *host63Man
over a year ago
Bedfont Feltham |
"A while ago I posted about buying a car while my vauxhall was out of action and it being automatic transmission...
Today is the day, Percy the Peugeot car is home and sat on my drive, I've not given it eye contact yet! And I have super anxiety about driving it because I've never driven an automatic before.....
Going through all levels of hell.
It has two pedals a funny knob and I'm confused, my son is saying horrible things like 'don't mistake the brake for the clutch' and my daughter in law is threatening to drive me and the car into the middle of nowhere and leave us there...
I think I am overthinking and that is never a good thing.
Help "
I have had both and can switch between them with no.problems
Just put your left leg as far into the left footwell and select drive have the handbrake on. When you are ready select drive cover the brake pedal with your right realise handbrake and the car will move off slowly by itself and to stop it push the pedal. Same for reverse just select reverse the car will go backwards itself if yiu want to ho a bit faster just give it a bit of gas. You will be fine just enjoy. |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
|
"This is the most British thread I've seen
Mrs Salty is Malaysian so auto is the default.
I've driven all over the world and autos are the only hire cars I can get.
Both have their place. Autos downsides for me are lack of engine braking and loss of full control driving on snow.
OP you'll be fine and as another poster said, pull your left leg well away from the pedals to avoid accidental left foot braking"
This is what is concerning, the lack of engine braking.
I am taking it out tomorrow, my son has agreed to show me and sit with me, he drives autos at work |
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"This is the most British thread I've seen
Mrs Salty is Malaysian so auto is the default.
I've driven all over the world and autos are the only hire cars I can get.
Both have their place. Autos downsides for me are lack of engine braking and loss of full control driving on snow.
OP you'll be fine and as another poster said, pull your left leg well away from the pedals to avoid accidental left foot braking
This is what is concerning, the lack of engine braking.
I am taking it out tomorrow, my son has agreed to show me and sit with me, he drives autos at work "
Good luck OP I'm sure you will be fine. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
Automatics are a cinch to drive. Just takes a little bit of getting used to, though it won't take you long.
I've had an Automatic for the last 20 years - although my previous daily driver was a manual, my new one is an auto and I much prefer it.
Initially, you'll find yourself going for the clutch pedal when coming to a halt, but after a few times of doing it, you'll stop.
You'll probably find the bigger adjustment comes if you ever have to drive a manual again, lol.
Might as well get used to it though, as with more and more people shifting to EVs and hybrids, the manual gearbox is going to be a thing of the past.
In fact, I understand that the DVLA are actually considering dropping the restriction for those passing their tests in automatic vehicles as a recognition of this - though nothing has changed as yet - and of course, will only apply to those passing their test after the change is implemented.
Makes sense really as more and more driving schools switch to EVs, pretty soon nobody will be able to pass their test in a manual vehicle. Most 17 / 18 year olds can't afford to go out and buy a brand new EV, so would have to try and find a 2nd hand auto somewhere |
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Having driven both, I'll never go back to manual. Far too much hard work for little to no reward.
I look at it like this...
*Manual - Drive to Local shop*
36 or so bio-mechanical operations, involving gear changes up and down, clutch operation, brake operation, accelerator operation, handbrake operation.
*Automatic - Drive to Local shop*
6 bio-mechanical operations."
Overall, that's a 500% increase in the amount of bio-mechanical energy I need to expend in a manual vehicle compared to an automatic one.
For a much longer journey, repetitive but necessary bio-mechanical operations mount up in a manual vehicle.
So whilst 2 different drivers may have different endurance and stamina levels, the one in the automatic will expend less bio-mechanical stress on their body.
And I'm all for following the path of least resistance and stress
|
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"
Help you have a brake and an accelerater so fast or slow, the automatic lever, gear shift just puts it into drive, so left foot on brake, right foot on accelerater put car into drive with left foot on brake off you go "
Got to disagree with you there.
You never use your left foot in an automatic.
Right foot does both brake and accelerator, obviously not at the same time! |
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"A while ago I posted about buying a car while my vauxhall was out of action and it being automatic transmission...
Today is the day, Percy the Peugeot car is home and sat on my drive, I've not given it eye contact yet! And I have super anxiety about driving it because I've never driven an automatic before.....
Going through all levels of hell.
It has two pedals a funny knob and I'm confused, my son is saying horrible things like 'don't mistake the brake for the clutch' and my daughter in law is threatening to drive me and the car into the middle of nowhere and leave us there...
I think I am overthinking and that is never a good thing.
Help you have a brake and an accelerater so fast or slow, the automatic lever, gear shift just puts it into drive, so left foot on brake, right foot on accelerater put car into drive with left foot on brake off you go "
You’ve obviously never driven an automatic then. You don’t put your left foot on the brake at all, use your right foot for accelerator and brake same as a manual. Use your left foot and you’ll be smashing your face into the steering wheel. And yes I’ve got an automatic. |
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By *rAitchMan
over a year ago
Diagonally Parked in a Parallel Universe |
"
Help you have a brake and an accelerater so fast or slow, the automatic lever, gear shift just puts it into drive, so left foot on brake, right foot on accelerater put car into drive with left foot on brake off you go
Got to disagree with you there.
You never use your left foot in an automatic.
Right foot does both brake and accelerator, obviously not at the same time!"
I've had autos for years and I brake with my left foot. I find it more natural. I can get out of my car and into a manual and drive that normally. I never have to think about which foot to use to brake with. |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
|
Thank you everyone for your valuable input and insights...
I know I will get used to it, it's just because it's different. Once I've assimilated the knowledge I'll be fine
My boy is coming round later, so will let you know how it goes
Thank you  |
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"Thank you everyone for your valuable input and insights...
I know I will get used to it, it's just because it's different. Once I've assimilated the knowledge I'll be fine
My boy is coming round later, so will let you know how it goes
Thank you "
You will be fine. Don’t overthink it. Just drive and it will feel natural very quickly. |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
|
So, today I drove Percy to work....Got there in one piece
Shaky start, treating the brake like a clutch when I go to move off. Once i'm moving it's great. Weird listening to the engine go through the gears though.
I just need to get used to it lol |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Seriously changing to an automatic car was one of the best things I have ever done,will never buy another Manuel car again
Que? "
Dammit, you beat me to it |
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By *otsossieMan
over a year ago
local, but not too local |
"So, today I drove Percy to work....Got there in one piece
Shaky start, treating the brake like a clutch when I go to move off. Once i'm moving it's great. Weird listening to the engine go through the gears though.
I just need to get used to it lol "
Move your left foot right back and forget about it.
You only use your right foot now. |
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By *otsossieMan
over a year ago
local, but not too local |
"Doubt that tbh, I like my clutch control and engine braking"
Try a *good* auto and never look back.
Most let you override the gears for engine braking in winter but you’ll only forget to put it back into auto afterwards and wonder why the engine is screaming ?? |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
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"So, today I drove Percy to work....Got there in one piece
Shaky start, treating the brake like a clutch when I go to move off. Once i'm moving it's great. Weird listening to the engine go through the gears though.
I just need to get used to it lol
Move your left foot right back and forget about it.
You only use your right foot now. "
Yep I figured that, didn't mean I physically mistake it for the clutch, but more that it doesn't seem natural for a clutch not to be there, I guess it's rethinking what I know |
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Apologies if someone has already mentioned it (I couldn't be bothered to read the whole thread, sorry)
Automatics are the future, electric and I believe hybrid cars don't work with a manual set up.
Enjoy the ride! |
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"So, today I drove Percy to work....Got there in one piece
Shaky start, treating the brake like a clutch when I go to move off. Once i'm moving it's great. Weird listening to the engine go through the gears though.
I just need to get used to it lol "
Yes! Percy has been unleashed! Lol
Hope all goes well...and what a great thread, some genuinely useful advice. |
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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago
|
"So, today I drove Percy to work....Got there in one piece
Shaky start, treating the brake like a clutch when I go to move off. Once i'm moving it's great. Weird listening to the engine go through the gears though.
I just need to get used to it lol
Yes! Percy has been unleashed! Lol
Hope all goes well...and what a great thread, some genuinely useful advice. "
Thank you! Yes, very grateful for the comments, it has been useful |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"When we eventually all go electric we might end up with just the one pedal, like a fairground ride. "
If I brake down, I call the AA.
If you break down in an electric car, Dm do you cal AAA? |
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"When we eventually all go electric we might end up with just the one pedal, like a fairground ride.
If I brake down, I call the AA.
If you break down in an electric car, Dm do you cal AAA? "
Duracell. |
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"So, today I drove Percy to work....Got there in one piece
Shaky start, treating the brake like a clutch when I go to move off. Once i'm moving it's great. Weird listening to the engine go through the gears though.
I just need to get used to it lol "
That bit really is weird, isn't it?
I used to think that the car was taking liberties, presumptuously changing gears for me!
A x |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"When we eventually all go electric we might end up with just the one pedal, like a fairground ride. "
Only problem with electric cars is you can’t drive them through puddles |
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"When we eventually all go electric we might end up with just the one pedal, like a fairground ride.
Only problem with electric cars is you can’t drive them through puddles "
Why not no air intake like on a ICE and no exhaust to work about |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"I've got two pedals and a funny knob, too.
Autos are easy. Step on the gas to go. Step on the brake to stop. Turn the wheel to aim. Simples. "
And don’t forget to use the indicators |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"When we eventually all go electric we might end up with just the one pedal, like a fairground ride.
Only problem with electric cars is you can’t drive them through puddles
Why not no air intake like on a ICE and no exhaust to work about "
Might get electrocuted |
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"I think once you get used to it, you'll probably not want to go back to a manual.
Doubt that tbh, I like my clutch control and engine braking"
You say that now but I'd had my automatic for a few years then borrowed my sons manual when mine was in getting mot done. Stalled it twice on the drive lol. Soon got used to it but couldn't wait to get my automatic back. |
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