Learn How To Put Your Acura In Drive in 5 Simple Steps

Driving an Acura can be a thrilling experience, but for some people, putting the car in drive can be a little daunting. Learning how to put your Acura in drive is an essential skill for anyone who wants to take their vehicle on the road. Fortunately, the process is easy and can be mastered in just a few simple steps.

Step 1: Locate the gear shift knob. The gear shift knob is typically located in the center console of the car between the driver and the front passenger seat. It’s usually marked with the letters P, R, N, D, and sometimes L.

Step 2: Press the brake pedal down. Before shifting into drive, make sure to press the brake pedal down with your foot. This will prevent the car from moving while you’re shifting gears.

Step 3: Move the gear shift knob to “D”. Once you’ve pressed the brake pedal down, you can move the gear shift knob to “D” for drive.

If you follow these simple steps, you’ll be able to put your Acura in drive with ease. But why stop there? Keep reading for more tips and tricks to help you become a confident and skilled Acura driver.

Step 1: Locate the gear shift knob

If you are driving an Acura for the first time, you might be confused about where the gear shift knob is located. The gear shift knob is usually situated between the driver and the front passenger seat, at the center of the car’s console. Look for a knob that has the letters “P,” “R,” “N,” and “D” written on it. Once you find the gear shift knob, you are ready to move on to the next step.

Pro Tip: On some Acura models, the gear shift knob is located on the steering wheel column instead of the center console. Check your car’s manual to determine the location of the gear shift knob.

After finding the gear shift knob, ensure that your Acura is in the parked position by pressing the brake pedal down and pushing the gear shift knob all the way to the left, where the “P” is located. When you have done this, the car will be in the park position and is ready to be started.

Find the Center Console

1. Step 1: Sit in the driver’s seat and close the door.

2. Step 2: Look down at the area between the driver’s seat and the front passenger seat.

3. Step 3: Locate the center console, which is the raised section between the seats.

4. Step 4: Find the gear shift knob, which is typically located on the center console.

5. Step 5: Familiarize yourself with the layout of the center console and locate any buttons or switches that you may need to use while driving.

6. Step 6: Adjust your seat and steering wheel to ensure that you can comfortably reach the center console and the gear shift knob.

Now that you’ve found the center console and gear shift knob, you’re ready to put your Acura in drive! Just follow the remaining steps and you’ll be on the road in no time.

Step 2: Press the brake pedal down

Now that you’ve located the gear shift knob, it’s time to press the brake pedal down before putting your Acura in drive. This is an essential safety measure that prevents your car from moving forward suddenly.

Make sure your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, as this will ensure that your Acura doesn’t move until you’re ready for it to do so. You’ll also want to make sure that your seatbelt is fastened before taking your car out for a spin.

When you’re ready to move forward, you can shift your car into drive. It’s important to remember to keep your foot on the brake pedal until you’re ready to move, as this will keep your car from moving forward unexpectedly.

If you’re in a hurry, it can be tempting to skip the brake pedal step, but this is never a good idea. Even if you’re in a hurry, taking a few extra seconds to make sure you’re safe can save you from an accident.

Remember, safety should always come first when you’re behind the wheel of your Acura. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to enjoy a safe and enjoyable driving experience.

Sit in the Driver’s Seat

Before you can press the brake pedal down, you need to sit in the driver’s seat. Make sure the seat is adjusted to a comfortable position and the seat belt is fastened. Adjust the mirrors to ensure good visibility.

Put your Foot on the Brake Pedal

Once you’re seated, put your foot on the brake pedal. Make sure you press the pedal all the way down. This will prevent the car from moving forward when you shift into Drive.

Make Sure the Gear Shift is in Park

Before you take your foot off the brake pedal, make sure the gear shift is in Park. This will prevent the car from moving forward or backward when you start the engine.

Turn the Ignition Key

If the car has a key ignition, insert the key and turn it to the “on” position. If the car has a push-button start, press the brake pedal and press the button to start the engine.

Wait for the Engine to Start

After you turn the ignition key or press the push-button start, wait for the engine to start. You can tell the engine has started when you hear it running and the dashboard lights turn on.

Step 3: Move the gear shift knob to “D”

Check Your Owner’s Manual: Before moving the gear shift knob to “D”, it is important to check your owner’s manual for any specific instructions regarding your Acura model.

Locate the “D” Symbol: The “D” symbol is usually located near the gear shift knob on the center console. Some Acura models may have the “D” symbol located on the gear shift knob itself.

Move the Gear Shift Knob: Once you have located the “D” symbol, you can move the gear shift knob to the “D” position. Make sure to press the brake pedal down firmly while moving the gear shift knob.

Understand Your Gear Options

Before you move the gear shift knob to “D” (Drive), you should understand the different gear options available on your Acura. Some Acura models have additional gears like “S” (Sport) or “L” (Low), which can be used in certain situations such as climbing hills or towing a heavy load.

To shift from “P” (Park) to “D” (Drive), you will need to move the gear shift knob downward. The gear shift knob typically has a diagram of the different gears on it, so make sure to locate the “D” (Drive) position before shifting.

Once you have located the “D” position, firmly press down on the gear shift knob and move it into the “D” position. Your Acura is now in Drive mode and you are ready to hit the road!

Shift to Reverse Gear

If you need to reverse your Acura, you can do so by moving the gear shift knob to the “R” position. This can be useful when parallel parking or backing out of a driveway.

First, make sure that the car is at a complete stop. Press down on the brake pedal with your foot to ensure that the car does not move forward. Then, press the button on the side of the gear shift knob and move it to the “R” position.

When you shift into reverse gear, your Acura’s reverse lights will turn on to indicate to others that you are backing up. Always make sure to check your surroundings and use your mirrors to ensure that it is safe to reverse before doing so.

Step 4: Release the brake pedal slowly

Now that you have shifted to the desired gear, it’s time to release the brake pedal slowly. Take your foot off the brake pedal gradually, allowing the car to start moving. Be gentle, especially if you are on an incline or driving in heavy traffic. This will help you to avoid any accidents or jerky movements.

If your car has an automatic hold feature, it will keep the brakes on even after you release the brake pedal. This feature can be very useful in heavy traffic or when driving on hills. It helps you to avoid rolling back or forward, depending on the direction of the slope.

Remember to always check your surroundings and use your mirrors to ensure that it is safe to start driving. Look both ways before moving forward to avoid collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians.

Check Your Surroundings

Before moving, always ensure that you have a clear view of your surroundings, and there is no obstacle in your way. Look around your car and use your mirrors to check for any pedestrians or other vehicles.

Make sure that you are not in a rush and take the time to observe your surroundings carefully. Don’t hesitate to wait until the way is clear before moving your car.

Always be extra cautious when reversing your Acura. Double-check your surroundings, especially for pedestrians, animals, or small objects that may be behind you.

Don’t Slam on the Gas Pedal

Gradually press down on the gas pedal: Once you are comfortable and ready to drive forward, avoid quickly pressing down on the gas pedal. Gradually press down on the pedal to increase your speed.

Maintain a safe speed: Be mindful of the speed limit and maintain a safe speed while driving. Keep in mind that it takes longer to stop a vehicle than to start it, especially if you are driving at high speeds.

Avoid sudden movements: Try to avoid sudden movements like quick turns, hard braking, or abrupt acceleration. These actions can cause your vehicle to skid or lose control.

Keep a safe distance: Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. This will give you enough time to react and apply the brakes if needed.

Stay alert: Always stay focused and alert while driving. Avoid distractions like texting or eating while driving, as these can cause you to lose concentration and increase the risk of accidents.

Gradually Increase Your Speed

After shifting to the D gear, it’s time to start accelerating. But don’t be in a rush to press down hard on the gas pedal. It’s important to gradually increase your speed, especially if you’re a beginner driver.

Start by pressing down lightly on the gas pedal to slowly increase your speed. Keep your eyes on the road and your surroundings, and make sure to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. Remember to follow the speed limit, and adjust your speed according to the road conditions and traffic flow.

As you gain more experience, you’ll become more comfortable with accelerating and shifting gears. But even then, it’s important to always drive responsibly and cautiously. Gradually increasing your speed will not only help you become a safer driver, but it will also improve your fuel efficiency and save you money on gas in the long run.

Practice accelerating and shifting gears in a safe, empty parking lot or on quiet roads until you feel comfortable doing so. And always remember to be aware of your surroundings and other drivers on the road.

Step 5: Accelerate and enjoy the ride

Step on the gas pedal: Once you have reached an appropriate speed, you can gently press down on the gas pedal to increase your speed.

Pay attention to the speed limit: Make sure you are aware of the speed limit and drive responsibly, keeping a safe distance from other vehicles.

Be aware of road conditions: Check the road conditions and adjust your speed accordingly. Keep a lookout for pedestrians, cyclists, and other obstacles.

Stay focused: Keep your attention on the road and avoid any distractions like texting or talking on the phone while driving.

Enjoy the ride: Driving can be a fun and enjoyable experience, especially if you are exploring new areas. Take in the scenery and enjoy the journey!

Use Your Turn Signals

Indicate your intentions: Using your turn signals is essential to let other drivers know your intentions. Signal your turns and lane changes in advance to avoid causing confusion and potential accidents.

Check your signal lights: Before driving, check your signal lights to ensure they are working correctly. If any of the lights are not functioning, replace the bulb as soon as possible.

Use signals consistently: Use your turn signals consistently every time you need to make a turn or lane change. Even if there are no cars behind you, it’s always a good practice to signal your intentions.

Observe Traffic Rules and Regulations

• Stop signs: Come to a complete stop, look both ways, and proceed only when it’s safe to do so.

• Speed limit: Always obey the speed limit, even if other drivers are going faster.

• Seat belts: Always wear your seat belt and make sure all passengers do the same.

• Signals: Use your turn signals when changing lanes or turning.

• Distractions: Avoid using your phone or other distractions while driving.

• Right of way: Yield to pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vehicles with the right of way.

Remember that traffic rules and regulations are in place for your safety and the safety of others on the road. Following them can prevent accidents and save lives. It’s important to always stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially when driving in unfamiliar areas. Be sure to stay up to date on any changes or updates to traffic laws in your area, and seek out resources like driver education courses or informational websites if you need help understanding them.

Drive Defensively

Defensive driving is a crucial skill that every driver should practice to ensure their safety on the road. Here are some tips to help you drive defensively:

• Stay Alert: Always be aware of your surroundings and anticipate potential hazards on the road.
• Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe following distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you to avoid collisions.
• Use Your Mirrors: Check your mirrors frequently to be aware of the vehicles around you and any potential hazards.
• Watch Your Speed: Always drive within the posted speed limits and adjust your speed according to the road conditions.
• Signal Your Intentions: Use your turn signals to indicate your intentions and let other drivers know where you are headed.

Remember, defensive driving is not just about following the rules of the road, it is about being aware of your surroundings and taking the necessary precautions to avoid accidents. By practicing defensive driving, you can help keep yourself and other drivers safe on the road.

Get More Tips and Tricks for Driving Your Acura

Driving an Acura is a great experience, but it’s important to keep up with maintenance and get the most out of your vehicle. Here are some tips to help:

Keep up with regular maintenance: Make sure to follow your Acura’s recommended maintenance schedule to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Practice safe driving habits: Always wear your seatbelt, obey traffic laws, and stay alert while driving to avoid accidents.

Use genuine Acura parts: When replacing parts on your Acura, use genuine Acura parts to ensure proper fit and function.

Stay informed: Keep up with the latest Acura news and updates by following Acura on social media, reading the Acura blog, and subscribing to the Acura newsletter.

Join an Acura Enthusiast Club

• Connect with other Acura enthusiasts who share your passion for driving.
• Learn more about your vehicle and get tips and advice from experienced Acura owners.
• Participate in events and activities such as car shows, rallies, and track days.
• Get Discounts on Acura parts and accessories, as well as other products and services.
• Access exclusive resources such as technical information, repair manuals, and service bulletins.
• Show Off your Acura and share your experiences with other enthusiasts.

Joining an Acura enthusiast club is a great way to get more involved in the Acura community and to enhance your ownership experience. Whether you have a classic NSX, a sporty Integra Type R, or a luxurious RLX, there is a club out there for you. Many clubs have regional chapters that organize local events and meetups, as well as national events that bring together Acura enthusiasts from all over the country. So why not join a club today and start enjoying all the benefits of being part of the Acura family?

Attend Driving Seminars and Workshops

One of the best ways to improve your driving skills is to attend driving seminars and workshops. These events are designed to provide drivers with new knowledge and techniques that can help them become better, safer drivers.

Driving seminars and workshops cover a wide range of topics, including defensive driving, vehicle handling, and advanced driving techniques. They are typically led by experienced instructors who can provide valuable feedback and advice to help you improve your driving skills.

Attending driving seminars and workshops can also help you stay up-to-date with the latest laws and regulations related to driving. This can be particularly useful if you’re new to driving or if you’ve recently moved to a new state or country.

Date	Location	Topic
June 1	Chicago, IL	Defensive Driving
July 15	Los Angeles, CA	Advanced Driving Techniques
August 21	New York, NY	Vehicle Handling
September 10	Miami, FL	Traffic Laws and Regulations
October 5	Seattle, WA	Emergency Maneuvers

If you’re interested in attending a driving seminar or workshop, check with your local DMV or car club for information on upcoming events in your area. Many events are free or low-cost, and they can be a great way to learn new skills and meet other driving enthusiasts.

Read the Acura Owner’s Manual

One of the best things you can do to learn about your Acura and how to operate it safely is to read the owner’s manual. It provides important information about the features and functions of your car, as well as maintenance tips and safety instructions.

The manual includes details on how to properly maintain your Acura, which can help prevent breakdowns and costly repairs. It also explains the different warning lights and indicators on the dashboard, and what to do if they appear.

Another benefit of reading the manual is that it can help you troubleshoot problems that may arise while driving. Whether it’s a strange noise, a warning light, or an issue with a particular feature, the manual can provide insight on what to do next.

Finally, reading the owner’s manual can help you stay safe on the road. It provides important information on how to properly use safety features like seat belts, airbags, and child restraints. It also includes tips for driving in various conditions, like rain or snow.

Frequently Asked Questions