Auto Mode: The Fastest Way to Kill an Exotic Car Clutch

 Posted on November 21, 2025 in Exotic Car Maintenance

Many first-time exotic car owners assume that the "Auto Mode" on their vehicle is a convenience feature, just like the traditional automatic. However, in Ferraris (F1), Lamborghinis (E-gear), early McLarens, and other single-clutch automated manual exotics, Auto Mode is the enemy of clutch life.

These auto mode systems were not designed to slip smoothly like a luxury automatic; they were designed for high rpm and deliberate, driver-controlled engagement. When owners continuously use Auto Mode in traffic and while running errands in town, the transmission constantly "slips" the clutch to keep the ride smooth.

This can lead to some of the fastest (and most expensive) clutch wear in the exotic car world. To find out whether you should avoid Auto Mode in your exotic car or to have other questions answered, speak to a knowledgeable Forest Hill, MD exotic vehicle technician from Rosso Service. We are factory-certified and trained in all categories by Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati, and employ two Ferrari Master Technicians. We can provide the service and maintenance your car needs for the life of your car.   

How Do Exotic Car Automated Manuals Work?

An automated manual is not a "real" automatic. The car’s computer controls clutch engagement instead of a torque converter. Auto Mode is designed for fast, aggressive shifts at higher RPM and is not calibrated for stop-and-go traffic. When deciding when to shift, your car’s transmission computer analyzes data like throttle position and wheel speed.

Instead of you, the driver, using the clutch pedal, either a hydraulic or electromechanical system electronically controls the clutch, engaging and disengaging the engine. The car’s software adjusts shift points based on the selected driving mode, such as "ECO" or "SPORT." The goal is to provide smooth, quick shifts by using a complex system of actuators to select gears without any direct input from you.

Why Does Auto Mode Wear Out the Clutch Faster?

In manual mode, you will quickly engage the clutch, which minimizes slippage time. Auto Mode, on the other hand, is programmed for smooth shifts and gentle starts, causing the computer to slip the clutch more often as it engages. This partial, prolonged engagement creates friction and heat, which is the enemy of clutches. Stop-and-go traffic and creeping forward in heavy traffic in Auto Mode are especially damaging to the clutch.

As the system continuously engages and disengages the clutch, the wear and heat buildup multiply. When the exotic car’s computer is in Auto Mode, it may also select a higher gear for fuel efficiency at low speeds, which causes the clutch to slip even more as it struggles to maintain momentum.

What is the Best Way to Preserve the Life of Your Exotic Car’s Clutch?

To preserve the life of your exotic car’s clutch, try the following:

• Drive your car using the paddle shifters like a manual, making quick, decisive shifts to control and minimize slippage.
• Engage "Sport" or "Race" mode;  the settings are programmed to engage the clutch more quickly.
• Pull both paddles to put the car into neutral when you are at a stoplight or in heavy traffic. This fully disengages the clutch, preventing unnecessary wear on the throw-out bearing and clutch disc.
• When pulling away from a standstill, use enough throttle to engage the clutch quickly and smoothly.
• Avoid "creeping" in heavy traffic by leaving a gap because, unlike automatics, these cars cannot idle forward naturally.   
• Minimize reversing on hills (especially uphill), because a large amount of heat is generated quickly.  

Contact a Baltimore, MD Exotic Car Maintenance and Repair Expert

Exotic car clutches fail early, not because they are weak, but because Auto Mode asks them to do something they were not built to handle. If your exotic is showing signs of clutch slip or if you want a performance-focused inspection and calibration, a Forest Hill, MD exotic car maintenance and repair expert from Rosso Service can ensure your exotic car receives the highest level of care. We offer a state-of-the-art facility, transportation services, and tours of our facility. Call 410-638-2886 to schedule your maintenance, service, or pre-purchase inspection.