# Automatic transmission maintenance and driving habits > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/automatic-transmission-maintenance-and-driving-habits > Updated: 2026-09-22T03:01:00.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 3. Drivers transitioning from manual to automatic vehicles are advised to adopt specific maintenance and driving habits to prevent expensive gearbox damage. Key recommendations include using only the right foot for both acceleration and braking to avoid accidental simultaneous pedal use, which can cause dangerous stops. Additionally, drivers should avoid shifting into neutral while the vehicle is in motion, such as when descending hills, as this does not provide significant fuel savings and can place excessive stress on the transmission system. Newer guidance emphasizes proper parking procedures and fluid maintenance. When parking on an incline, drivers are cautioned against relying solely on the ‘P’ (Parking) position, which engages a mechanical component called a parking pawl. If the vehicle’s full weight rests on this part instead of the brakes, it can cause significant strain and a jarring sensation during gear shifts. To prevent damage, drivers should bring the vehicle to a complete stop and engage the parking brake before shifting into ‘P’. Regarding fluid maintenance, a debate exists concerning transmission oil longevity. While some manufacturers suggest that transmission oil does not require periodic changes, mechanic Juan José Ebenezer argues that all automatic transmissions require regular maintenance. He emphasizes that because components still experience wear, drivers should proactively check and replace fluids and filters to prevent system failure, regardless of manufacturer claims. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-22: Automatic transmission maintenance and proper parking techniques Experts advise drivers to protect automatic transmissions by using parking brakes on inclines and performing regular fluid and filter maintenance, despite some manufacturer claims to the contrary. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/automatic-transmission-maintenance-and-proper-parking-techniques ### 2026-08-24: Automatic transmission maintenance and driving habits To prevent expensive automatic gearbox damage, drivers should avoid using two feet for pedals and refrain from shifting into neutral while the vehicle is in motion. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/automatic-transmission-maintenance-and-driving-habits ### 2026-08-15: Vehicle maintenance and driving habits impact repair costs Improper driving habits and irregular maintenance can lead to high repair costs and premature wear of vehicle components like the transmission and shock absorbers. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vehicle-maintenance-and-driving-habits-impact-repair-costs --- Cite as: Automatic transmission maintenance and driving habits. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/automatic-transmission-maintenance-and-driving-habits