Can an automatic car be started in P gear?
2 Answers
An automatic car can be started in P gear. Starting the engine in P gear and then passing through R gear without stopping will not cause damage to the transmission. Therefore, in daily driving, you can start the engine in P gear as long as you ensure not to stay in R gear, which will not cause additional harm to the transmission. Relevant information about automatic cars is as follows: 1. The gear symbols of an automatic transmission are P, R, N, D. In P gear, the automatic transmission is in neutral, and a mechanical lever locks the output shaft to prevent the car from rolling. Of course, the gear lever can only be placed in P gear when the vehicle is completely stopped. 2. R (REVERSE) - Reverse gear can only be engaged or disengaged when the vehicle is completely stopped; otherwise, it will cause early wear of the automatic transmission. 3. If you need to push or tow the vehicle, you must use N gear. When towing the vehicle, the towing speed should not exceed 50km/h, and the towing distance should not exceed 50km; otherwise, it will damage the planetary gear mechanism of the automatic transmission.
As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, I often discuss automatic transmission operations in car enthusiast groups. Yes, automatic transmission vehicles can absolutely be started in P (Park) gear—this is a standard safety mechanism designed to prevent accidental vehicle movement during startup. The P gear locks the transmission output shaft, ensuring the car remains stationary, making it the most suitable position for ignition. If attempting to start in other gears like D (Drive) or R (Reverse), the system typically locks the engine to prevent rolling or accidents. I've also tested: some older cars can start in N (Neutral) gear, but P gear is more reliable, especially when parking on slopes with the handbrake as a double safety measure. Developing the habit of parking in P gear can extend transmission life and ensure smoother startups. New drivers needn't worry—it's simple: press the brake, confirm the gear is in P, then start. This method has stood the test of time; I've never encountered issues. In short, starting in P gear is absolutely safe and worry-free.
