developing your smart driving skills Steering wheel Ignition switch warning! Gearshift lever 18 A standard transmission is always used with a clutch. The gearshift is mounted on the floor or on the steering  column. Standard transmissions are built in three‑, four‑, five‑ or six‑speed models. Check your owner’s manual when learning to use your vehicle’s gearshift. An automatic transmission automatically chooses the most  efficient gear. In a vehicle with a standard transmission, the  driver chooses the best gear. Using the best gear keeps the  engine from stalling and allows it to operate as efficiently as  possible for fuel economy. The gearshift lever lets you control the vehicle’s transmission.  There are two types of transmissions: automatic and standard.  Both control the connection between the engine and the wheels. Don’t turn your vehicle’s  ignition switch to the  “lock” position while it is  still in motion. This can  cause the steering to  lock if you try to turn the  steering wheel and you  could lose control. Get to know all the positions of the ignition switch in your  vehicle. They may include: The steering wheel controls the direction of the vehicle by  turning the front wheels. If your steering wheel is adjustable,  make sure it’s in the right position for you before you begin to drive. •  Lock  — steering is locked and ignition is off •  Off  — ignition is off but the steering is not locked •  Acc  — ignition is off but some electrical components may be  used (for example, radio) •  On  — ignition is on •  Start  — turn to this position to start the engine, then release  switch so that it returns to the On position.