Do You Need to Press the Brake When Shifting Gears in an Automatic Transmission Car?
2 Answers
Whether you need to press the brake when shifting gears in an automatic transmission car depends on the actual situation, as detailed below: 1. Shifting from D to D3 or D2 while driving does not require pressing the brake. However, if you suddenly shift from D to a lower gear at high speed, you need to press the brake promptly. This is because the engine speed will become very high, and without pressing the brake, the vehicle will experience a strong jerking sensation. If the speed is slow, you can shift directly to a lower gear. 2. Shifting from N to R or D requires pressing the brake and holding the lock button; otherwise, the shift will not be successful. However, shifting from R or D to N can be done directly without pressing the brake.
When shifting gears in an automatic car midway, such as switching from D to manual mode or sport mode while driving, it usually isn't necessary to press the brake at all. I've been driving for over twenty years and often manually shift gears on highways to control engine RPM, which saves fuel and improves power response—just operate the gear lever directly. Modern vehicles are ingeniously designed, with transmission systems ensuring seamless transitions during motion to prevent slipping or accidents. Of course, this doesn't apply to shifting into P or R, those parking or reverse positions—only when switching between driving gears. I recommend trying it in a safe environment, like practicing manual shifts on an empty road. Remember, distracted operation carries risks; during rain, snow, or heavy traffic, it's best to focus on driving and avoid abrupt gear changes. The vehicle manual is the best guide, as different brands and models may have slight variations—take time to check and ensure compliance with the rules.
