Can You Drift In An Automatic

The question of whether you can drift in an automatic car sparks debate amongst car enthusiasts. While traditionally associated with manual transmissions, drifting *is* technically possible in an automatic, albeit with significant caveats and a different approach. This article will delve into the technical aspects, exploring the challenges and methods involved.

Understanding the Fundamentals: Drift Mechanics

Before discussing automatics, let's recap the core principles of drifting. Drifting, at its heart, is about intentionally oversteering. Oversteer occurs when the rear tires lose traction before the front tires, causing the rear of the car to slide out. To initiate and maintain a drift, you need to:

Exceed the tire's slip angle: Every tire has a limit to how much it can grip before it starts to slide. This is often described by the slip angle, the angle between the direction the tire is pointing and the direction it's traveling. Drifting involves pushing the tire beyond this limit.
Control the throttle: Precise throttle control is crucial to managing the slide. Too much throttle, and you'll spin out. Too little, and you'll lose the drift.
Counter-steer: Steering in the opposite direction of the slide (hence "counter-steering") helps to control the car's angle and prevent it from spinning.
Weight Transfer: Manipulating the weight distribution of the car is critical for initiating and controlling drift. This can be achieved through braking, throttle input, and steering.

Traditionally, manual transmissions offer a distinct advantage in this process due to their direct control over engine RPM and gear selection. The driver has the ability to quickly downshift, "clutch kick" (rapidly engaging and disengaging the clutch), or use engine braking to initiate and maintain a drift.

The Automatic Transmission Challenge: Control and Response

Automatic transmissions present several challenges for drifting:

Torque Converter: Most automatic transmissions utilize a torque converter instead of a direct mechanical connection like a clutch. The torque converter is a fluid coupling that allows for slippage between the engine and the transmission. This slippage can dampen the immediate response needed for initiating and controlling a drift. When you rapidly change the throttle input, the torque converter can lag, making it more difficult to precisely manage wheel spin.
Gear Selection: Automatic transmissions, even those with manual shift modes, typically don't offer the same level of immediate gear selection as a manual. The shift response time can be slower, hindering quick downshifts necessary for initiating and maintaining a drift. This delay is influenced by the TCU or TCM (Transmission Control Unit/Module) which determines the shift logic.
Lack of "Clutch Kick": The absence of a clutch in a traditional automatic eliminates the possibility of a clutch kick, a common technique for abruptly shocking the drivetrain and breaking traction.
Transmission Protection: Many modern automatic transmissions have built-in protection mechanisms that prevent aggressive downshifts or sustained high RPMs to protect the transmission from damage. These protections can interfere with drifting.

Methods for Drifting in an Automatic

Despite the challenges, drifting in an automatic is possible, but it requires different techniques and often, modifications. Here's a breakdown of some common methods:

Power Over: Using Raw Horsepower

This is the most basic and often the least controlled method. It relies on having a high-powered engine to overwhelm the rear tires with torque, breaking traction and inducing oversteer. While technically drifting, it's more akin to a controlled burnout. It's less about finesse and more about brute force. It's harder to maintain control and predict the car's behavior with this method.

Weight Transfer Techniques

Similar to how drifting is initiated in a manual, weight transfer can be used. This involves shifting the car's weight distribution to unsettle the rear tires and initiate a slide. Techniques include:

Scandinavian Flick (Pendulum Turn): Briefly turning the steering wheel in the opposite direction of the desired turn to shift the car's weight before quickly turning back into the corner. This is more effective on loose surfaces like gravel or snow but can be adapted for tarmac.
Braking Techniques: Trail braking (lightly braking while entering a corner) can shift weight forward, lightening the rear tires and making them easier to break traction. Some experienced drivers can left foot brake while maintaining throttle.

Utilizing "Manual" Shift Mode (If Available)

Many modern automatic transmissions feature a "manual" or "sport" mode that allows the driver to select gears. While not a true manual, it provides some degree of control. Key considerations:

Shift Speed: The speed of gear changes is critical. Some transmissions offer quicker shift times than others. This can be improved with TCU tuning (reprogramming the transmission control unit).
Gear Holding: The ability to hold a specific gear without the transmission automatically upshifting is essential. Many automatic transmissions will automatically upshift at the rev limiter, which can interrupt a drift.

Modifications for Drifting an Automatic

To make an automatic car more drift-friendly, several modifications can be considered:

TCU Tuning: Reprogramming the TCU can improve shift speeds, allow for more aggressive downshifts, and disable or reduce the intrusive nature of transmission protection systems. This often requires specialized software and expertise.
Limited-Slip Differential (LSD): An LSD is crucial for drifting, regardless of transmission type. It distributes torque more evenly to both rear wheels, preventing one wheel from spinning freely while the other loses traction. Without an LSD, drifting an automatic becomes significantly more challenging and less predictable. Factory open differentials send all torque to the wheel with the least amount of grip.
Upgraded Torque Converter: A higher stall speed torque converter can allow the engine to rev higher before transferring power to the wheels, making it easier to break traction. However, this can also make the car less fuel-efficient and require careful selection to avoid overheating the transmission.
Transmission Cooler: Drifting puts a significant strain on the transmission, generating excessive heat. An upgraded transmission cooler is highly recommended to prevent overheating and potential damage.
Hydraulic Handbrake: While not directly related to the automatic transmission, a hydraulic handbrake can be a valuable tool for initiating and controlling drifts, particularly in situations where the automatic transmission's response is lagging.

The Importance of Skill and Caution

Drifting, regardless of transmission type, is a skill that requires practice and a controlled environment. Never attempt to drift on public roads. Start with small, controlled slides in a safe location, gradually increasing your angle and speed as you become more comfortable.

Drifting an automatic presents unique challenges and requires a different approach than drifting a manual. While technically possible, it often necessitates modifications to the car and a significant understanding of the transmission's behavior. Power over and weight transfer methods can be used in an unmodified automatic, but the addition of TCU tuning, an LSD, and other mods will greatly improve the car's drifting capabilities. Ultimately, successful drifting in an automatic is a combination of skill, technique, and the right modifications.

Disclaimer: Drifting can be dangerous and can damage your vehicle. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as encouragement to engage in unsafe driving practices. Always prioritize safety and adhere to local laws.