I never let the auto do it's own work... I love the way the car sounds pushing 6g as i slap into 2nd, 3rd, 4th, shifting on into 5th if there is enough road in front of me. It gives me the feeling "I'm not just along for the ride", I am part of the ride. hooah... As for damage I got just over 2K on my crossfire, and the transmission is leaking fluid, but there is a recall on the problem, but does pushing the auto to it's max have anything to do with the fluid leak, I don't know, and I don't care. I'll drive this car like I can't die, and as if I'm waiting on it to fly. God I love the feel of speed and sound of power. hooah hooah hooah