Can an automatic transmission car start in P gear?
2 Answers
An automatic transmission car can start in P gear. In fact, the transmission of an automatic car is not that fragile, and it can be started in either P gear or N gear. More information about P gear is as follows: 1. P gear is the most common gear in automatic transmission models, usually located at the frontmost position of the gearshift console, in front of the R gear, designed to lock the axle when the car is stationary on a slope. 2. Both P gear and N gear are neutral gears. The power generated by the engine input cannot be transmitted to the transmission output, which is why drivers often experience a slight slide after parking in P gear on uneven roads. 3. Since P gear is equipped with an additional mechanical braking device, the vehicle will not move once the gear grooves in the transmission are locked by the pawl.
Having driven automatic transmission cars for decades, I'm well aware that the engine can only be successfully started in P (Park) or N (Neutral) gear. This is a core safety design of vehicles - the engine is only permitted to start when the gearshift is locked in P or N, preventing accidental ignition in driving gears which could cause sudden vehicle movement and potential injuries. If one accidentally attempts to start in D (Drive) gear, the dashboard will either display a warning or remain completely unresponsive, protecting both the transmission system and fuses from damage. I've developed a habit of always pressing the brake pedal first, visually confirming the gear display shows P before pressing the ignition button or turning the key. This practice becomes particularly crucial when parking on slopes, where combining it with the handbrake prevents rolling. New drivers might forget initially, but with regular practice it becomes second nature. Regularly inspecting gear system components like fluids and sensors ensures smooth operation - safe driving begins with these small but critical details.
