Downshifting with automatic transmission?

(2011-06-16 14:15:16)

1. Nathaniel Says: A friend and I have been arguing and we don't know who's right. This is the situation: what happens when you go from freeway speed (65-70mph) in an automatic transmission car and shift down to first gear. He says you can't do it but I say you can do it but it will destroy your transmission. Help is appreciated. Thanks. (:

2. Air-Cooled (o ! /o) Says: nothing will happen. most cars with automatic have built in safely features that when the gear selector is moved from D to R at a high speed....nothing happens, that way you dont destroy something. even manual cars today have similar features. my old 2000 Chevy Cavalier had a safety feature that you could not downshift to first until you were going slower than 25mph. I even tested this out by pushing the clutch in and forcing it into 1st. nothing happened, I just kept pushing until i hit 25mph then it went into gear. the Park position has a similar safety feature

watch this video, its from the TV show Mythbusters...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hakNxO5pME4

3. debora Says: try it! 1st & 2nd gear are for towing weight of 1000 lbs or more. so how were it kill the transmission, if there's no weight? the car would slow down somewhat and problely jerk when put back in drive

4. Nomadd Says: The transmission won't downshift till the speed is low enough. Around 40-45mph in most cars.