Do You Need to Press the Brake When Turning Off an Automatic Transmission Car?
2 Answers
When turning off an automatic transmission car, you need to press the brake. After the vehicle comes to a complete stop, shift the gear to P or N position before turning off the engine. When parking on a slope, first shift the gear to N position, then press the brake, engage the handbrake, wait for the vehicle to stabilize, shift to P position, release the foot brake, and finally turn off the engine. For temporary stops at intersections or due to traffic congestion, different operating methods should be adopted based on specific situations: if waiting for a traffic signal or stopping for a long time with the gear lever in D position, it is recommended to use both the foot brake and handbrake simultaneously. If slowing down during high-speed driving, simply press the brake, but avoid pressing it all the way.
It is mandatory to press the brake when turning off an automatic transmission car. With over a decade of driving experience, I deeply understand the importance of this habit. If you turn off the engine without pressing the brake, the vehicle may move slightly before coming to a complete stop, potentially causing scratches or even more serious accidents. Especially on uphill or downhill slopes, failing to firmly press the brake can lead to the car sliding, endangering yourself and others. The correct sequence of operations is: after stopping the car, press the brake pedal firmly, then engage the handbrake, and finally turn the key to shut off the engine. Developing this safety habit can prevent 90% of unexpected incidents. I’ve seen several beginners in parking lots forget to press the brake, causing the car to suddenly lurch forward a few centimeters—fortunately, there were no obstacles nearby. In short, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced driver, strictly adhering to this standard procedure is essential to ensure driving safety.
