NEVER do THIS to your Automatic Transmission Car

A Toyota Master Diagnostic Technician shares 7 Things you should never do to an automatic transmission.
Folks save your expensive transmission. Never do this to your automatic transmission!
In this video I will go over 7 things you should. never do to an automatic transmission.
First Protect the parking pawl! The parking pawl is a small metal part inside the transmission that locks it when you're in park. Slamming your car into park before coming to a complete stop or letting the weight of the car rest on it is a sure way of risking damage to the parking pawl.
Second the transmission fluid! There's no such thing as a lifetime transmission fluid. If manufacturers were so dead set on the fluid really being lifetime they would warranty it for life.
For Toyota\Lexus car\suv transmission fluid replacement instructions:
• How to change your Toy...
For Toyota\Lexus trucks sealed transmission fluid replacement instructions:
• Toyota Trucks Sealed T...
Third Warm up your transmission before take off. Wait WHAT? Most people warm up their engine but in reality modern engines don't need much warming up. It's your transmission that needs a little bit of warm up to get going well.
Fourth Don't use your transmission as a brake! Downshifting intentionally to slow down the car puts extra load on the transmission. Most people do this to save their brakes which cost a fraction of what the transmission costs.
Fifth In snow driving if you get stuck, Don't just rev up the engine and let the wheels spin. This puts a tremendous load on your transmission.
Sixth Protect your Shifter! Accidents happen where we spill things over the shifter, But don't just leave it be. Clean the shifter and dry it up inside to prevent further issues.
Last but not least Don't put your car in neutral in short stops like traffic lights.
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#thecarcarenut #carcare #automatictransmission
0:00 Intro
0:33 No. 1 Parking Pawl?
2:06 No. 2 Transmission Maintenance?
3:14 No. 3 Warm up?
5:41 No. 4 Don't Brake!
7:37 No. 5 Snowy Chicago?
9:22 No. 6 The Shifter?
11:46 No. 7 Neutral?

[@donh215]

You missed an important one. Shifting from reverse to drive or drive to reverse while the vehicle is still moving.

[@skyloveup]

Oof, seen my friends do that and it irks me and they have newer cars🤦‍♀️

[@prospros7831]

V

[@vladthedude7231]

That’s my dad every time 😭😭

[@SamslamminCars]

The new cars with dials and electric shifting take forever.. scares me in emergency situations for drive to reverse or the other way.

[@BlaqRaq]

@@skyloveup 😂🤣. Those newer cars will soon be older cars - compared to yours.

[@adamf663]

I always drive lightly during the first few minutes -- no hard acceleration. I thought I was doing it for the engine, but I guess I was doing it for the transmission all along.

[@paulphotios3920]

Oil needs to warm up. Engine and transmission use oil.

[@calebhohneke8482]

Big tip for winter driving: ALWAYS carry either a bag of kitty liter or sand in the back of your trunk. This has gotten me out of a bind several times when my cars got stuck in the snow. Once you realize you're stuck, open up that bag of liter or sand and dump a good amount it in front AND behind your wheels. If it's FWD, do it to the front wheels....If it's RWD, do it to the rears. 9 times outta 10, that will get you unstuck without any hassle and you and your car will drive on being happy :)

[@grizzlygrizzle]

Or drive a manual transmission, so you can just rock your way out.

[@dindog22]

Cat litter works wonders

[@hughbrackett343]

Be sure to get non-clumping litter. Clumping litter gets slick as snot when it's wet.

[@dindog22]

@@hughbrackett343 this is true

[@bjornlangoren3002]

I carry a couple of leftover carpet scraps. Works wonders.

[@slatsgrobneck7515]

Many thanks for calling out the bs on "lifetime fluid" in a transmission!!!! It is getting harder and harder to do a simple drain and fill on an automatic transmission as all manufacturers seem to have adopted the practice. Much appreciated!

[@paulklp8262]

Subaru do the 'lifetime' thing for their manuals as well.

[@davidwarlick8973]

When I had a Chrysler minivan, I changed the transmission fluid every year. The transmission lasted forever.

[@DjTidy90]

Can you do videos on lexus hybrids

[@clapclapscream]

Did a drain and fill on a Chrysler 200, it destroyed the trans

[@figueroaalberto26]

I just bought a 2007 es 350 Lexus. 142,000 miles. Idk when it’s been changed and it flares once in a while. Should I drain and fill?

[@corystevenson2041]

Shifting to drive from reverse without coming to a complete stop is another one. I always appreciate your tech advice. Thank you for your efforts!

[@brayanflores700]

Any advice on how to fix it

[@typhlosionisbest]

Did this one day and stalled in the middle of the road. Fastest lesson I've ever learned.

[@AustinSaysWurdd]

Blew out a trans in a Saturn Sl2 like that, I was 17-18 years old and thought the “slam” was cool. One day I went to pick up my boy and while going downhill in his neighborhood the trans cracked and bled out all over the driveway we were able to coast into. Cracked the bell housing so bad I could almost fit my hand in it

[@ytsux9259]

But that shift process goes through the Neutral gear first before landing into Drive. ??? Shouldn't the Neutral neutralize the whatever before landing into Drive?

[@joed8423]

​@@ytsux9259the momentum of 4000 lbs going backwards then being forced the other direction is what causes stuff to break

[@gokartbuyer]

Great tips only a few tweaks. 1. You don’t have to go from drive to neutral. Just brake as normal, apply the parking brake then shift into park. You pass by neutral on your way to park anyway. 2. Yes I completely agree with changing your fluid at normal intervals! However don’t be afraid to change your fluid after 100k if you’re unsure of the service history. Analyze your fluid and transmission performance first. If it’s just a bit dark and old it’s normal. If you have bits floating or are having shifting issues, new fluid can make things worse. 3. Glad someone mentions this! I recommend warming up your engine for the appropriate time given the climate then driving easy until the transmission is fully warmed up. 4. Engine braking is a normal part of transmission usage. Just don’t do it aggressively as it will be harder on the mounts and axles and clutches (much like launching or aggressive driving) 5. Totally agree don’t spin tires excessively in snow it will strain the differential . Also don’t rock in between gears trying to get out of snow or ice. It send a shock through the drivetrain and is hard on all the components. 6. I completely agree, don’t be slobs people! 7. I completely disagree. Shifting into neutral is perfectly fine and will not hurt the transmission. Yes engaging and disengagement causes minimal wear. However the transmission shifts gears when you leave the light anyway and shifts back down to first when approaching a light so the wear you’d get from shifting into neutral is minimal wear but heat is the real enemy of your transmission. As he was saying, the torque converter is a source of friction. If you’re sitting with your foot on the brake in drive, you are constantly shearing the fluid in the torque converter and generating heat. Shifting into neutral allows fluid to circulate and prevents your transmission from trying to move an immovable object. You can use park but, it’s simpler the just pop into neutral then pull back down into drive. Keeping your transmission cool is key to prolonged life! 8. BONUS! Before changing between reverse into drive you need to make sure you stop moving! It sounds obvious but I see it happen all the time in parking lots especially. This is essentially trying to spin the transmission backwards in a given gear which is extremely detrimental. Before anyone starts criticizing my advice, please note that I’m an actual mechanic who’s worked for Mazda and Mercedes’, has an OAD in automotive technology, and I have obtained an ASE in Automatic Transmissions. Just as an FYI

[@gokartbuyer]

I forgot to mention another few tips! 9. Check your fluid level!!! Low fluid level won’t only cause erratic shifting but it will cause more heat to build in the transmission and cause premature failure! Please don’t overfill either as if can cause the fluid to churn inside the transmission creating air bubbles in the hydraulic systems. This will cause accelerated wear and sluggish shifting as the bubbles compress and cause low pressure. 10. Use the correct OE fluid! This is especially true with modern transmissions (CVTs especially). There’s many great aftermarket products out there but none will perform as well as the specific fluid that your transmission was designed to use. Hondas are especially sensitive to this, even the older ones. Of course if you’re low and in a pinch something is better than nothing but I really recommend sticking with the correct fluid.

[@hjer731]

Fantastic tips

[@zacharypeery4082]

Mine doesn't shift gears at all, it's a CVT

[@gokartbuyer]

@@zacharypeery4082 I recommend constant vigilance then. CVTs don’t have a great track record with reliability, keep it cool and keep up with the fluid

[@zacharypeery4082]

@@gokartbuyer it's total BS that there is no dipstick for the trans fluid, almost like they did it on purpose so you have to bring it in for service. I had new trans fluid put in at 45,000, I need to do it again as I just passed 90k miles on my '16 Chevy Spark 1.4L work putter. I know the engine is good I personally do all the oil and filter changes and I just flushed my radiator and put in fresh coolant maybe 7k miles ago. It's aggravating that the trans fluid is a whole complicated process, literally no KZbin videos on how to service this generation model.

[@user-xt7sv2hi2d]

You are helping Million & Million Peoples Thank you so much Mr. Car Care Nut. May our Lord Jesus always blessing you and your Family. Texas

[@davidanderson8469]

Dad taught me the parking pawl technique when I was 16(1966). When I first met my wife her father didn't teach her that. She's let it rock back on the pawl and then set the parking brake. Epic Fail. I had to undo that procedure. I'm in San Diego and have to admit in this climate I do start the car right up but do putt through the neighborhood until I get on the highway. Thanks Car Care Nut. You are brilliant.

[@DavidTMSN]

Right but how would I do the correct technique with an electronic parking brake? I understand how to properly do it with a manual e brake. I shift into into park but before I left off the brake I engage the e break. The electronic one I just press up on a button after I'm already in park and the weight of the vehicle is already on the pawl.

[@TheRIZKYRAMA]

​@DavidTMSN in my sister's honda HR-V, I can turn the electronic ebrake before shifting to park

[@DavidTMSN]

I figured it out. I put it into park but before I let off the brake I engage the e brake and it takes the weight rather than the pawl. Just so used to manual ones.@@TheRIZKYRAMA

[@rafaelbustos4758]

Thanks 😊you taught me something I think you are a nice guy god speed

[@johncowhig7196]

Thank you! You ARE a nice guy. I try to understand what you teach. I've seen you before and you seem to know what you're talking about. Keep on keepin on!

[@haolee1925]

Thank you for your meaningful advice, especially transmission fluid changing that we always overlook. Five stars.

[@thehardrockhippie7118]

I’m so glad I’ve found your channel. I’ve gone through so many cars since I was a teenager and with each one I learn more and more. Now I’ve taken to watching KZbin videos like yours to get even more tips to properly care for and maintain my vehicle. All of your advice and videos are so easy to understand for a non-me mechanic like myself. Thank you a bunch!

[@Raelven]

At 62 years of age, I just got my first automatic transmission car. I learned on a stick shift (1972 Datsun 240Z) and every one of the numerous (12 that I can remember) cars of my own were manual transmission. There is some learning curve with the automatic, and this channel is going to save my butt and my bank account. PS I don't like auto shift, I feel like I am a less focused driver with less control of the car. One of my life regrets is listening to those who said "You're too old to drive a stick." BS. Never too old to clutch!

[@user-fg6mq3dg3d]

I drive automatic and I agree, I got my driver licensee with manual and I prefer manual but one thing I like about my automatic car is that I have manual mode + shift pedals and I can still switch between fully automatic or manual mode where I control the car's gears. I dont know if your car has this but it at least gives you an option to switch between what you prefer if you have it.

[@anishpataskar1253]

LEMME DRIVE YOUR DATSUN RIGHT NOW! 😤

[@ChrisBussells]

I'm 76, and I got my first automatic 8 years ago. First car was a '62 MGA, and every car and truck after was a stick, until the current ride, a 2016 Frontier with the 5 speed auto. I had to replace my 2001 Frontier (4 cylinder manual 5 speed) after it was totaled by a falling tree, and it was almost impossible to find a Frontier with stick shift, so I took a chance and went with the automatic. I love my truck, but I'd love it even more if it had a 6 speed manual.

[@AmusedKelpie-tc9du]

If you are over 70, more than likely, you did learn on a manual....

[@Lkom24]

I second this. You're never to old.. I unfortunately had 2 strokes open heart surgery and fractured my wrist having surgery. So ill never be able to drive manual again. Enjoy it while you can.

[@fishboy3179]

really great information, from top to bottom. this will help so many people understand more about transmissions. btw i am a 25 year ase master. my favorite tip you mentioned is how changing fluid after a certain time could do more harm than good. with that said i would like to say that my daily driver is a 1990 gmc with a 700r4, who knows how many miles, the odometer stopped working in 2009 at 250k. trans fluid has been changed once but she is still rocking on !

[@loufromaustralia356]

Thank you for making the variety of contents dealing with daily car driving awareness. We all need a reminder. Nicely explained and easily understood. I have enjoyed your presentation. Keep on making more. Greetings from Australia

[@jrodz808]

This is pure knowledge from experience and it’s greatly appreciated. Keep the vids up. You are truly helping thousands of people. Thank you

[@imautoob]

Intuition has led me to use the neutral>>parking brake>>park sequence for a long time, glad to hear I'm not just being eccentric 😄 thanks for the tips!

[@s.i.m.c.a]

or just stop the car, keep pressing brakes, engage parking break and switch transmission to parking

[@phobos258]

​@@s.i.m.c.a I love my new Toyota that puts the parking brake on automatically when you shift it to park. as someone coming from a manual transmission, it's really nice to not have to worry about the extra steps

[@pap4539]

@@phobos258 noticed that in the new rav4 I rented recently. you have to give it two seconds or so to engage before letting off the brake, but its a sweet feature for sure! that vehicle has a ton of really cool features

[@tt-kn6wn]

You are a clear and fine communicator. Thank you for the tips, but more importantly - for the explanations as to the WHY which helps retention of information.

[@nukestrom5719]

I learn something from every video you posted. I'm guilty of not using parking brake. I do when I stopped at a slope but I do agree with you and take it as an advice. Thank you

[@nathanartley5181]

Great tips! I especially like the tip about putting the parking brake on in neutral and then putting the transmission in park. I want my new Camry to last as long as possible.

[@ani7chat]

I followed auto blogs for more than a decade..this is by far the most insightful. Like the methodical and scientific approach and reasoning...Love watching your videos...just too good

[@LauraRodriguez-Peace]

Although this video is a year old, the information is obviously still very relevant. I am just now viewing this, and so grateful for your expertise and advice. Thank you!

[@BrucifyMe]

4:44 can confirm, when cold my 2003 Camry would not shift up from 3rd gear until I had driven a bit longer. Thought something was wrong with it for the longest time but ultimately found this turned out to be normal.

[@cerny4444]

AMD you’re a good guy to not only post outstanding videos but you also must spend hours answering all the questions that you then get. Keep up the good job sir!!

[@getonthecrossanddontlookba5004]

Repent to Jesus Christ “I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭40:1-2‬ ‭NIV‬‬ Ju

[@alanc6781]

Every time I watch your channel I learn or confirm something. One thing I do is to get into the car and start the engine straight away. Then I check the dash for lights, check my mirrors, put on my seat belt, etc. That gives the engine a little time to circulate the oil, etc. I feel it helps.

[@shakeelkhattak9781]

THANK YOU SO MUCH , I NEVER USED TO USE PARKING BRAKES REGULARLY. FROM THIS DAY I WILL DO IT.

[@MichaelWilliams-qk9rm]

Thank you for these videos. I did my trans fluid exchange today. Other than the standpipe bolt being rather difficult to break free this process was really easy. Planning to replace it in the next day or two and do one more fluid exchange.

[@kimdavis5631]

You are a lifesaver my brother! I cannot afford a new car payment now and these kind of valuable tips to prolong our ride is much appreciated deep from my heart.

[@papeter910]

Just became a car owner, this video is extremely helpful. Had a stick car 10 years ago, so automatic is completely new for me.

[@TheTrollTrollyYeti]

Thank you for #1. You'd be amazed how many friends i have that i have to explain what park does and the the parking break is still needed and why.

[@cardo1111]

Thanks for addressing "the lifetime transmission fluid" marketing malarkey. I was waiting for your take on this 👍🏽

[@latu8923]

A lot of good information here-thank you for sharing these tips. I do own a 2007 Tundra. Greatly appreciated.

[@cmillar849]

Thank you my friend for the sterling advice, much appreciated. Best wishes to you and family. Jack.

[@roadrunnerrickyray]

You’re the truth. You know what you’re talking about. People just don’t know the basics lol

[@61espo]

Thanks AMD! I’m guilty of always shifting to neutral when at a light. That stops today! Thanks again for taking the time to make these great videos!

[@JulianKapa]

He didn't mention transmission temperature, though...so depending on how you drive and the weather etc...your transmission may get to a higher than ideal temperature when idling in drive.

[@joselitosuficiencia436]

Thanks mate. You are a good man, you help people maintain their cars. Your videos are very helpful.

[@wilsonov87]

Nice one, some extremely valuable information here for this long-time driver first-time automatic owner. Who also lives at the top of a steep hill. Cheers!!

[@musicalbenjiman]

May the Lord bless and keep you as well. Always enjoy these excellent videos.

[@tjhouston5201]

Really great channel. I'm probably like every other one of your subscribers, I'm a car guy too. With that said, you really know your stuff. Even someone like me with probably a hundred different cars under my belt, ('65 Corvair Corsa being the first of 'em), I liked your "warming the transmission" on a cold day suggestion. Something I hadn't thought about before. I'm going keep that one in mind. Thanks. Sometimes little things like that can end making big differences in repair costs. New subscriber here. Glad I came across your channel.

[@Hrobb]

Thanks for all your videos and car wisdom. Those that work on cars (and other shops) appreciate all that you teach us. And those car minded persons that don't works with tools but like to learn new and different automobile knowledge are a part of your subscribers that watch weekly. Thanks for all your work and efforts.

[@kalidilerious]

Why would trans shops appreciate this? The more transmission problems people have the more business they get, it puts food on the table.

[@jetvalmonte6574]

I love that you end every video with a blessing and well wishes. Know that I also do the same for you when I watch your videos.

[@eddieBoxer]

The car nut is a genius I learned quiet a bit by watching his videos, thank you sire Great videos.

[@Groot564]

I guess I should have waited too the end of video you answered my question!! Thank you for all your knowledge and sharing it to us. Thank you and bless you and family! 🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@Carpower123]

What a great and informative video AMD! Thanks for sharing your knowledge, bless you!

[@themtoniraniremaxbroker2447]

Many Thanks from Toronto, This is Good Stuff!! I have been driving for over 40 Years and How Little Did I Know!!

[@FishingWithMichaelTruong]

You're probably one of the best car mech techs on the whole of KZbin. Thanks for all your smart advice mate :) keep up the good work.

[@vampyrelycan99]

Thanks for another great video advice. It is important for all car users/owners to observe these "small" tips that seem to be negligible but have a huge effect on actual vehicular maintenance and running costs; unfortunately in real life that's not quite the case, as many still ignore these tips.

[@1boysinblue]

Is it okay to put your trans in drive and put your foot on the brake and let it warm up at idle?

[@alanaho4915]

Very good advice and tips from you AMD and other subscribers. 2007 Tundra 4x4 with 194k miles. Been doing the parking brake all wrong, and launching a boat on a steep ramp I need to do it right. Also, in about 231k total miles I was going to do a ATF flush. I guess not, a "drain and flush" will be good enough... but I think I should periodically check levels since I drive about 5k per year ;) and it will take me a while to get to 231k. Keep the videos coming!

[@AR47X420]

Thank you for this. Never knew what the component was actually called. My dad taught me this as a kid. He said “settle out the vehicle”. To this day I put it in neutral, apply hand brake, settle vehicle, then place in park. Has served me well thus far. Thanks for the clarification. Love your content BTW. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK 😊

[@mschelle721]

What do you mean when you say settle the vehicle? I’m a very new driver as in just got my license and got and used car as my first car and just been researching around how to take care of your vehicle and I came across this video. When I park my car, I usually do it in this order: while my foot still on the break pedal, move the shift to break and then pull hand break, lift my foot from break pedal then turn ignition off. Is this the correct way?

[@AR47X420]

@@mschelle721 when you getting ready to park, come to a complete stop press the break shit in the neutral, then pull the handbrake release the footbrake, then reapply the footbrake and place the shifter in park. This is settling out the vehicle.

[@mschelle721]

Great! Thank you so much!

[@G.Martin8711]

@@AR47X420 For tip #1, can you tell me what the reverse is after you've shifted into neutral and put the handbrake on and then park. Then the return journey, what is it like when leaving? Do you first disengage the manual transmission and shift into reverse or direct to start the car, or do you first shift into reverse or drift and only then release the handbrake?

[@tobymofield6597]

When i watch these video's i feel like i have completed 4 years of college. You have good wisdom and top notch logic. Keep these video's going. Thanks.

[@Butlerbob]

I learn a lot in these 15 min. about automatic transmission , so now I have to tell it to my wife!! that's harder than many people think!!!! belive me or not!!!! take care folks!! grt. from the Netherlands.

[@matthiasice]

Revving to get out of snow is a great way to snap a CV too. If that slipping wheel, that you're putting all that power into, suddenly finds traction it can send a large amount of force through your drivetrain. Same thing happens with 4x4s when they lift a tire off the ground, apply throttle, then that wheel comes down.

[@nigelalderman9178]

Back in the 70s I was told to leave the transmission in neutral when parked in a rough neighbourhood because the transmission could be damaged when people shunted your car. Can you even do that now? Great video. We also used to reverse, no brakes, slam the tranmission into drive to stop and shoot forward. We knew it was abuse but it was a fun thing!

[@greggost6493]

Awesome reminders.. my dad was strict about the neutral, set break then Park the transmission. I think it was once part of the driver's practical test ( 1970s)

[@jameswag8473]

I abused my parking pawl the other day. Needing to level out the vehicle I backed half way up some ramps to check the transmission dip stick at level. I hung the abnormal weight of the vehicle on that ramp on my parking pawl. The feeling and sound when I took it out of park was not something I ever want to put my truck threw again. Looking back I could have done so much to prevent this and am just grateful everything seems ok. If some day the parking pawl gives up on this truck I will know why. Thank you for all your content and the way that you deliver it. You have a way with us Toyota fans. God bless you and your family.

[@NahidTube]

Don't worry it can take that one time incident. It's bad when someone does it everyday out of habit

[@feanorcfw]

This guy is incredible. What a treasure trove of a channel.

[@RongNguoi]

Thank you for number 7...I have an older Nissan that has a CVT, I don't know the history as in how it was treated, so I was putting it in Neutral to help the trans...I will stop doing that now because your suggestions make a lot of sense...And I have Subscribed...

[@natehirsh]

Thank you very much Sir for this very instructive Video. I was doing so many wrong things and never knew it.

[@rodzimmerman1979]

I change the fluid in my '16 Camry every 30,000 miles. There is a noticeable improvement in the shift performance every time it is serviced. I cant imagine even waiting until 60k. I always use genuine Toyota WS fluid as well.

[@Sketch2239]

Love my 2001 5VZ-FE TRD Tacoma. I’ve learned a ton through working on my own vehicle and it runs perfectly. I already do and don’t do what you specified here, and of course I agree. Especially with the parking brake use on anything other than a flat road. Parking brake on and then shift to neutral to let the vehicle rest on the brake, then finally shift into park.

[@jameseverly8501]

thanks for the information, I have a 2000 Tacoma, not trd though, I rarely use the parking brake since by truck is an automatic. just nosey is your Tacoma a standard or automatic. thank you for your time.

[@luvkountry]

Got a 2017 Tacoma v 6 and the brakes have been crappy from since it was brand new. Pedal fades with light pressure. Dealer says they are all like that...question is Why? We love your no nonsense approach in your very informative videos. Thank you for sharing your talent and experience.

[@EdwinCV-dh8qc]

As always, you advice is the best thanks.

[@susano7587]

I just bought my first Toyota in about 30 years, a 2019 4Runner SR5 with 50,000 miles on it. I am VERY thankful that I found your channel!! Unless the truck’s previous owner abused this truck, I am hoping to have it last 300,000 miles by my paying attention to what you tell me. Thank you SO MUCH for taking all your precious time to explain to us Toyota owners how to best care for our vehicles!!!❤️

[@willg.5168]

Congrats on joining the Toyota family. Yes, you'll get MANY enjoyable miles out of that 4runner with the regular maintenance. ❤

[@susano7587]

@@willg.5168 I hope so.

[@willg.5168]

@@susano7587 you definitely will young lady and that's a promise ❤️👍🏽

[@perdidonoglobo]

Very informative video. I was taught to drive a manual transmission by a dearly departed lady. She made it clear that the parking brake is for every parking scenario. So even though my current car is an automatic I still adhere to her wisdom. Thanks for the validation.

[@fjb4932]

Joe, Tho she is dearly departed, her advice is not heavenly ...

[@phomjachana]

What are you talking about. The parking brake is the hand or foot brake that is lifted or depressed. The parking GEAR of the transmission should never be used to “park” your car. Op is saying use the parking brake at all times, sometimes referred to as the emergency brake. The parking brake should always be used. Ladies wisdom was spot on., or heavenly as you claimed her wisdom was not. Idk why you would care to call it heavenly or not.

[@TimothyBelcher-ql5mj]

Thank You for Your advice about putting the transmission into "Park" at a traffic light...(I'm a former 'manual transmission" driver; and I was used to doing that...) No More!!

[@Lkom24]

You're a great listen and explainer. Love your videos. Keep up the great work. And thanks for teaching me about my tacoma and transmission 😮

[@ka1133]

Great information! Fortunately I have never had any transmission problems in the past 55 years I’ve been driving. And I’ve driven a lot of vehicles. Although I have to admit some of the precautions you’ve mentioned I been neglectful with. Particularly cold weather starts in southern Ontario. And I’ve also downshift it on occasion when perhaps I shouldn’t be or placing the car into neutral at a long red light. I’ll be a little bit more aware of this and hopefully the transmission will last longer for the next person that gets it because I very seldom keep my cars longer than five years.

[@bobm21]

I change the fluid in my Tacoma trans every 10,000 miles and almost 200,000 miles on the truck still trouble free! You should add a footnote that putting your transmission in neutral when the weather is very hot weather with the air conditioning on would be beneficial in keeping the transmission cool under those circumstances.

[@RileyReneau]

Appreciate this video a lot my friend. Thank you!

[@robpettifer4495]

Thanks for the tips. I am now a reformed neutral stop lighter.

[@georgepeach5430]

I very much appreciate your videos! Have owned several Toyotas over the years and currently have a 2021 Corolla. I sold my son our beloved 2004 Sequoia when he got married almost eight years ago and it’s still going strong with over 200,000 miles on it. Your video on changing the oil every 5000 miles, rather than the recommended 10,000 was particularly helpful. Hoping to drive my Corolla to at least 250k! Thanks again for all you do! God bless your efforts!

[@LunarLocust]

You sold your son a wedding gift? Are you jewish?

[@igork9012]

Great content as always! Much to my surprise, I exceed all of the suggestions you made about taking care of the transmission in my Tacoma. Thank you 😊

[@petervermeulen1016]

Just started to drive an automatic gear (I live in Europe) always had shift stick ....very good advice! Thanks ! 👍

[@elayned6147]

Wow! I had a so called “sealed” situation with a VW beetle. I noticed the slipping at 60k. I argued with them about it saying that the slipping should not be happening so why can’t they just change the fluid. Anyway I ended up driving it for 13 years and the just traded it in. The dealer was so frustrating to haggle with. My car now is also a beetle and it’s a 2013, it’s highly maintained and runs beautifully. Thanks, I’ll be checking out your channel for more ❤❤❤

[@davidwendykeith3788]

Thank you. We stopped pumping more gas in our car after we watched another video of your and the red light went off. Learnt lots in this video too. God bless

[@darcyklyne]

Highly agree with transmission fluid replacement. Especially on 2.7L auto trans taco. At 150k miles mine tended to rev and shift at 60-65mph (105kms) when bucking headwind or passing. On a 4 hour hwy trip into strong persistent headwinds, i found i was constantly downshifting to maintain speed. To the extent that i worried about transmission damage. Afterward i noticed a decrease in power transfer and a flush and fluid replacement did restore. Not something that should be overlooked IMO.

[@elgransr]

Please do one for manual transmission. Great video as always. 👍

[@leosheppard8517]

Thank you for confirming my thoughts…. About shifting to neutral then apply park brake then parking range.

[@Valheru779]

This information is incredibly helpful to many, I'm sure. Until this year, I had exclusively driven manual vehicles for 24 years. It never occurred to me to question it until now. Thanks, mate!

[@pierrecastillo3021]

Thank you so much for making these videos sir! A car is a blessing and teaching Ang sharing your knowledge on how to take care of this blessing is even a greater blessing! It gives us confidence and assurance on the cars we drive and hope to take care of correctly. God bless you more and more! Greetings from the Philippines! We drive a Toyota vios here. One of the most reliable cars of Toyota. Praises be to God!

[@davidjfraser]

Gears to go, brakes to slow. This little reminder was giving to me by a Class 1 police driver in the UK. Supposedly the most highly trained police drivers in the world.

[@cayman9873]

What does that mean ? It has no value as a saying

[@davidjfraser]

@@cayman9873 It means what it says, use your gears to drive and use your brakes to reduce speed. When at desired speed select appropriate gear if a manual, automatic, it will think for it’s self. Simple.

[@waheedtahan2428]

Thank you for your advice it has helped me in maintaining the life of my Toyota Rush SUV.

[@joeblough4605]

Thanks for the info about downshifting. I've been using the autosticks hard downshifting on my last 3 cars thinking I was saving on brake jobs. Just bought a used 4runner and want it to last, I'll go back to normal braking all the time. I've also been searching for a good explanation of this mental debate I've long had on this subject. Thanks

[@amin6046]

Excellent video, as always. Thanks for sharing. I have always used the sequence you outlined for parking, however can't get it through my family and friends heads the importance of this. I will forward your video I would like to add two things: 1. Always use parking brake, when parked regardless of flat or slope. I have seen this happen where a car parked on a flat surface without parking brake got slightly bumped by another car, damaging the transmission parking mechanism. 2. Do not rest your hand on the shifter. Several people have that habit, especially those who come from driving manual transmissions. It potentially carries same risks as hanging something on the shifter.

[@stephendibari5010]

Great advice putting the car in neutral first then applying the emergency parking brake, I’ve been doing this for many years. I Only use my emergency parking brake if I park on a severe hill/slope. Good points on downshifting “You can’t keep on doing the same thing and expect a different result”. LOL. Defines insanity pretty well ! Always use the lowest gear and go easy on the throttle I’ve been putting my Lexus in Neutral at every red light. Great tip on not doing this

[@rishijai]

I'm guilty of putting the gear in neutral at the lights too. I also put the gear in Park and then pull the handbrakes, i need to reprogram my brain 😁

[@boobtubeakatv1296]

Putting the trans in neutral at a light doesn't hurt the trans at all... It does take all the pressures off the suspension parts which have rubber bushings as well as the brakes... Also, if hit from behind the car won't be in gear for you to mash it and cause even more problems... Though you should still be checking your mirrors and perhaps be able to avoid them... Always stop where you can still see the back tires of the leading vehicle on the ground to give you room to get around... Remember to engage trans at an idle before mashing the fuel as the light turns green... P.S. ALWAYS engage parking brakes when you park irregardless of level roads... The person behind or in front of you in a lot, can tap your unattended vehicle hard enough to do damage to the parking pawl...

[@matjj676]

@@boobtubeakatv1296 Yep, nothing wrong with neutral at a longer stop. Keeping a car in drive with the brake on for a long time is hard on the clutch.

[@georgehofgren6123]

It's hard on Everything... generates unnecessary heat, ruins fluid, servos, clutches, belts, hoses-

[@H.Vishnu]

​@@gireturns same here, feel its extra stress on the clutch and brakes to have it on D

[@abutler0311]

You Sir are a National Treasure! Thank you

[@ruheluddin9384]

When I queried this process from fellow drivers -Neutral then Parking brake and then place into Parking gear they just laughed! Thanks for confirming this process

[@brianmac1]

Great advice on the correct sequence when engaging the brake and park. Doing it this way now, I'm finding it comes out of park easily rather than it needing to be forced out of disengagement, which always bothered me. My Toyota doesn't do it but my wife's 2019 Kia Sportage downshifts itself when slowing down. I notice also our city's German MAN buses also do it, so I guess they're designed to handle it.

[@G.Martin8711]

For tip #1, can you tell me what the reverse is after you've shifted into neutral and put the handbrake on and then park. Then the return journey, what is it like when leaving? Do you first disengage the manual transmission and shift into reverse or direct to start the car, or do you first shift into reverse or drift and only then release the handbrake?

[@thesteve625]

AMD, great review! Way back I use to put in neutral at a stop light and when it turns green, I put it in drive. Now I know and not to do it. The only thing I do all the time is when the ground is flat, I put it in park and that's it. No parking brake. Of course I use extra precaution by using the emergency brake as well when parked in a incline. I don't want to put stress on the transmission especially that small part being damaged when parked in a incline. Manual transmission, I put in neutral and pull the emergency brake on flat surface. On incline, I put it in gear and use the emergency brake.

[@henryhonda8408]

When I drove a standard for years I always left it in gear and put on the parking brake. But I'm guilty as charged with leaving an automatic in park only with no parking brake (unless I was parked on a steep hill)..... my bad. Good thing my new Rav4 hybrid has automatic parking brake when I put it in park.

[@free2beme773]

HenryHonda and CarCareNut What do you mean automatic parking brake? I am considering getting a RAV4 hybrid very soon and have researched them, but I had not heard about this. How does it work - the best way?

[@trick700]

Thank you, very helpful; some helpful hints I did not know…in particular, warming up the transmission

[@user-uc8wi9us3w]

Great insight. Thanks for sharing your knowledge

[@genebigs1749]

I learned a lot from this video. I'm the guy who puts the transmission in neutral at long red lights, thinking that was a good thing to do.. I also never thought about warming up the tranny either. Thank you for some great info!

[@adeilakram]

I am same as well. Always put my car in neutral to save the transmission but I guess not a good thing to so in longterm

[@praisequophifiifitetteh2667]

I used to do same but now am going to drop

[@cleanearth6238]

Putting your transmission into neutral does nothing this guy is talking about older cars not newer ones and it was called pressurizing the system and they don't have that anymore..

[@anantdabholkar685]

AMD, really great info, especially regarding constantly going to neutral at stop signs! Some of the newer cars have a "brake hold" or just a hold button so you don't have to go to neutral to not have to reduce brake pedal pressure at stop lights by going to neutral manually, for those who get tired of pushing the brake constantly. Another point, try to come to a complete stop or as close as possible, before switching direction of motion in the transmission. Especially true for CVT's, less so on other types, but still should avoid for the jerk you get otherwise. The best way to warm up a transmission is to travel at a speed below ~45 mph in a gear that keeps the engine between 2,000 and 2,500 rpm, using a manual shift in an automatic or 3rd gear in a 5 or 6 speed stick shift or light gas pedal in a CVT. Usually 1/4 to 1/2 mile does the trick. When its below zero degrees F, you might need to go a mile or more this way, or until the temperature gage needle just moves.

[@henryhonda8408]

Well said..... I'd only add to be very gentle on the gas in extreme cold for at least the first 1/2 mile. I'm probably the most fanatic person when it comes to making a vehicle last forever. Take care!

[@jessebaldwin2661]

Thanks for this information. I plan on keeping my Honda for as long as possible and your tips will help me do that.

[@steiny3353]

I've got a 2020 LTZ Holden Colorado 4x4 Auto (Australia) and i knew the sealed tranny was bs, It has to be. I took it to a transmission specialist for a service and it cost me over $500 AUD. It had to be flushed to get ALL the oil out of the torque converter, but I'm glad that I did that now. A very informative video. I have liked and subbed, because you are never too old to learn. Cheers from Australia.

[@gracenotes5379]

Really useful and sane information that can save us a bunch of money and trouble. I admit to shifting into neutral at red lights if they're taking a while to change, mostly because I prefer the engine just ticking over rather than needing sufficient revs to prevent it stalling against the drag of the transmission fluid. My other take away is to push back against my dealership telling me I don't need or want a transmission fluid change at 6yrs/60k.

[@stevesmith7530]

Using some proper diagnostic tools I measured it, and discovered the engine load (and thus fuel usage) even on a fairly small vehicle doubles when holding stationary in drive. I have done this across several different vehicles, with fairly consistent results. If like me you have to do a lot of stop-start city driving that can make quite a difference to your bank balance. Then there is the simple fact it adds unnecessary heat to the transmission fluid

[@alfaromeo6985]

Nissan dealer gave me a cost estimate of $300 to replace the transmission fluid. They told me it was a "sealed" system and I wouldn't be able to do it myself. It turned out the "sealed" system amounted to merely breaking the plastic lock on the transmission tube top, which I did it myself. It cost me a mere $80 to flush the system myself at 50K miles. I drained and filled myself at every 30 miles afterward for half the cost.

[@MathsYknow]

@@stevesmith7530 Suspicions of increased fuel usage is the main reason I put my classic car in neutral when waiting at the lights. In new cars I can sometimes sense the transmission disengaging somehow to reduce drag on the motor when stationary, but even then, I'd rather not have to keep pushing on the brake pedal. More relaxing (on flat ground) to put it in neutral and rest my foot. My company vehicle is a new Toyota Rav4 with a brake hold button which solves that first-world problem. ;)

[@greyvillacampa4162]

​@@alfaromeo6985⁴

[@kiefershanks4172]

I'm going to stop engine braking unless I really need the extra braking force. Great points! Thanks!

[@Director-M]

Damn. I'm so guilty of downshifting with tiptronic transmissions to 3rd and 2nd alllll the time when slowing down.

[@tbamagic]

Good tips! I do downshift my Sequoia frequently when towing my RV trailer...on long hills.

[@rrbb36]

This is really great information. Thank you !!

[@rosewood1]

To avoid stress on parking pawl while it's in neutral let car roll back onto handbrake then shift into park. When you shift back into drive there should be no clunk. Very good review. Driving sensitively has real benefit especially when towing heavy loads. I regularly tow 3000kg so selecting optimal torque driving slower and letting the truck climb will reduce heat and loads on transmission and torque converter by selecting manual gear which reduces slip and heat generation.

[@hkiajtaqks5253]

yea, I release the brake pedal first after pulling the parking break (handbrake). That allows all load on the brake. Then put transmission into park.

[@Eaon69]

@@hkiajtaqks5253 Do you press the brake again when you are putting the transmission on park?

[@hkiajtaqks5253]

@@Eaon69 No, if the parking brakes are already on, you don't need the brakes again. The idea is that your car shouldn't roll and put load onto your parking gear. Parking brakes should already hold the car in place.

[@timjohnun4297]

I stop the car by putting my foot on the brake. I hold my foot on the brake while putting the transmission into park. I keep my foot on the brake while pulling on the handbrake. I switch off the engine, then take my foot off the brake. No rocket science there, and no load on the parking pawl either....

[@duladrop4252]

Thanks

[@ToolsOutsideTheBox]

Yup. I have a 1st Gen Scion xB and it has a blue temp light. O/D and a/c won’t work until it goes out. Though I suspect the heating element in the AFR sensor is weak or non-functioning. Also, Lithia tested the atf in my Camry hybrid at 80k and said it was still perfect. 🤷‍♂️ The hybrid trans is a different critter

[@heidilynnjackson7241]

You are absolutely awesome I do my own work I recently bought a Chrysler 300 with a sealed transmission and I watched your video on sealed transmissions saved me almost 300 dollars! I did it myself soon as I bought the vehicle because I knew it had been sitting not used for 3 months and a young boy had it for 2 years didn’t figure he had ever changed it out sure enough the trans oil was dark but still had some red to it so I didn’t put it back in I changed it out and did exactly as you said to cycle it 3x and I also knew it needed a throttlebody and a throttle body sensor. It was through if a code for the senor but nothing else I changed the sensor but still it acted funny after cleaning the throttle body sensor and sure enough it needed the throttle body the one on it looked as if someone tried to clean it and I think they might have damaged the open and close piece on it with a screw driver or something so I replaced that and it runs like brand new in less then 2 hours a car that wouldn’t barely go over 40mph once the code showed up now works perfectly. Cost me like 250 to fix if I would have had all that work done at a mechanic shop I was looking at about 600 or more to get it fixed! So thank you for all your stated knowledge! I learned a lot from your channel and absolutely appreciate it so much!

[@aa19nn]

Learning great tips for the first time. Realizing my mistakes