Well I have a 2003 GXE automatic. Since there is way too much traffic in southern california I decided to get the auto as opposed to the stick. Is it bad for your car to drop it into 3rd from the D position while driving. When I do this, this car just takes off and then I throw it back in D. Just wondering.

 

I've heard its not the best for your transmission, but personally I don't see how it could be all that bad...I guess just don't forget to put it into D and you'll be fine.

 

From what I understand about autos (and have read in this forum), all you're doing is asking the tranny to do the same thing it does when you floor it and it shifts down. So unless you try and do it at top speed (so you hit nasty rpm's...), shouldn't have any effect other than additional wear if you do it thousands of times. But hey, what do I know?