Car Driving Tips in the UK

Most automatic gearboxes will let you select between “P” (for park), “R” (reverse), “N” (neutral) and “D” (drive).

• Park should only be used when you’re stopped and getting out of the car. This “locks” the transmission, preventing it from rolling away (but you still need to apply the handbrake when parked as well).
• Reverse does as it says – acts the same as a reverse gear in a manual, and should be selected when you want to drive backwards.
• Neutral is the same as knocking a manual gearbox out of gear. It shouldn’t be selected when moving – this is known as coasting – but can be used (along with the handbrake) if you’re stopped for a short period of time.
• Drive will select gears automatically and allow the car to move forwards.

Some automatic gearboxes will also give you the option to select first or second gear. This will help in situations where you want to use the gearbox to keep your speed down – such as driving down a steep hill