Can an automatic transmission be started in P gear?
2 Answers
An automatic transmission can be started in P gear. Relevant introductions about P gear are as follows: 1. P gear is the most common gear in automatic transmission models, usually located at the foremost position of the gearshift console, in front of the R gear, aiming to lock the axle when the car is stationary on a slope. 2. Both P gear and N gear are neutral gears, where the power generated at the engine input end cannot be transmitted to the transmission output end. 3. Since the P gear is equipped with an additional mechanical braking device, the vehicle will no longer move once the gear grooves in the transmission are locked by the pawl. In recent years, some models have simplified the number of gears by moving the P gear away from the traditional gear position and replacing the original P gear with an additional parking function button at the N gear, without changing the parking attribute.
I've been driving for over twenty years, from a novice to an experienced driver, and the habit of starting an automatic transmission car in P gear has never changed. Automatic transmissions are designed with safety as the top priority. The P (Park) gear locks the wheels to ensure absolute stillness. Starting in other gears like D or R will be automatically prevented by the system, as it could cause the vehicle to slide unexpectedly and lead to an accident. I remember when I was younger, I was in a hurry once and forgot to shift gears—I couldn't start the car in N gear and was almost late. It was a profound lesson. Now, I always step on the brake first to confirm the gear is in P before turning the key or pressing the start button. This simple action can avoid risks and extend the car's lifespan. Develop this habit—safe driving starts here.
