Can You Start the Vehicle Directly in P Gear?

[DelEli]

You can start the vehicle in P gear. After shifting into P gear, the pawl gear at the end of the output shaft will engage and lock the output shaft. This effectively cuts off the power connection between the transmission and the wheels, preventing the wheels from rotating in the same direction. Starting the vehicle in P gear will not cause the car to jerk forward or roll backward. P gear stands for "Parking," which is used when parking the vehicle. When you reach your destination or need to park for an extended period, shift the gear lever into this position. Note: Always ensure the vehicle is completely stopped before shifting into P gear. Shifting into P gear before the vehicle has fully stopped can cause mechanical damage to the automatic transmission. When in P gear, the wheels are mechanically locked, preventing the vehicle from moving forward or backward. Therefore, always use P gear when parking on an incline. Additionally, during short stops (e.g., at traffic lights), it is best not to shift into P gear to avoid severe damage to the transmission in case of a rear-end collision. Besides P gear, automatic transmission vehicles also have other gear positions like R, N, S, M, L, and D, each with different gear combinations that deliver varying power outputs. The vehicle must "shift gears" at different speeds, selecting the appropriate gear combination to deliver power. Below is a detailed explanation: R gear: "Reverse" is used for backing up. Whether in a manual or automatic transmission, R is the reverse gear. Shifting into R gear allows the vehicle to move backward. This gear should only be engaged when the vehicle is stationary and the engine is idling. Never use R gear while the vehicle is moving forward, and be especially cautious with accelerator control when reversing. N gear: "Neutral" is also known as the neutral gear. You can shift into this gear and press the brake when waiting at traffic lights. If the wait is longer, it is recommended to engage the handbrake, allowing your foot to rest off the brake pedal. A common misconception is that shifting into N gear while coasting downhill or at high speeds saves fuel. This is incorrect and can damage the transmission. S gear: "Sport" mode delays gear shifts to provide more power, typically used for overtaking. M gear: "Manual" mode allows the driver to manually shift gears, similar to a manual transmission vehicle. L gear: "Low" gear is used for low-speed driving. In this gear, the transmission operates only in the lowest gear (equivalent to 1st gear in a manual transmission) and does not automatically shift to other gears. This gear is useful for climbing or descending steep slopes. In low gear, the drive wheels deliver high torque, providing sufficient power for steep climbs. Prolonged braking can overheat the brake pads, reducing braking efficiency, which is dangerous on long or steep descents. Shifting into L gear uses the engine's low RPM to control the vehicle's speed, reducing the need for constant braking. D gear: "Drive" is used for normal driving. Shifting into this gear and pressing the accelerator allows the vehicle to move. In this gear, the transmission automatically shifts based on speed and throttle input. You can remain in D gear and press the brake at traffic lights. However, prolonged stops in D gear can raise transmission fluid temperature and degrade its quality.

[OGriffin]

I've been driving for over twenty years and have encountered this issue many times. Starting the engine directly in P gear is completely fine; in fact, it's the most recommended method. That's because P gear is the parking gear, which locks the transmission to prevent the vehicle from moving, ensuring a safe startup. I remember one time when my neighbor accidentally started the car in D gear, causing it to lurch forward and nearly hit a flower bed. Since then, I always check the gear position. You also need to press the brake before starting to avoid any accidental movement. Of course, some cars can also start in N gear, but P gear is the factory setting and offers the highest safety. This is how automatic transmission vehicles are designed, so don't try starting in other gears. In summary, developing the habit of starting in P gear, along with checking your seatbelt, ensures a safe drive.