I know this topic has probably been covered a few times before, but I just want to be sure. I have a 98 Auto trans with sport shift. My car usually switches gears around 3k if you aren't stepping on it hard. I was wondering, how much abuse can the Automatic transmission/engine take? I mean is it ok to switch gears around say 5k or 6k instead of 3k? I just dont want to overwork my engine. I know some people run their engines till almost maxrev before switching gears, but everyone i've talked to who does that has a 5 speed manual, not an automatic. Just wanna know if it'll have an effect on the transmission over time or what? Any replies would be helpful. Also, about VTEC. I've heard the engaugment of Vtec occurs around 5k rpms, but I was wondering. Is this when you work your way up to 5k in say fourth gear? when your going like 120? or does Vtec kick in in like 1st gear if you rev the hell out of your car? I dont know why i'm confused by this, but like, if it kicks in around 5k in second gear, will it remain active once the transmission switches into third and the rpm's drop? Prolly baby questions to you guys, but I'm still learning about my first car hehe. Thanks! - Matt