Do You Need to Press the Brake When Turning Off an Automatic Transmission Car?
2 Answers
When turning off an automatic transmission car, you should press the brake. The correct sequence is: press the brake, shift to N gear, engage the handbrake, shift to P gear, turn off the engine, and then release the brake. For driving an automatic transmission car, using only the parking gear (P), reverse gear (R), neutral gear (N), and drive gear (D) is sufficient for normal driving needs. However, in some special driving conditions, other functional gears may be required. Manual transmission cars also require pressing the brake when turning off the engine. Otherwise, the vehicle may lurch forward due to lack of braking, potentially causing the engine to stall. The effectiveness of car braking depends on the quality of the brake pads. During the braking process, the brake pads are pressed against the brake discs or drums, creating friction to slow down or stop the car.
For over twenty years of driving, I've always emphasized the importance of pressing the brake when turning off an automatic transmission car—it's a critical safety measure. Vehicle design requires stepping on the brake pedal before shutting off the engine to prevent the car from rolling on slopes, especially when shifting into 'P' (Park) mode, as the transmission's locking mechanism relies on the brake signal to engage. Many beginners overlook this, leading to post-shutdown rollaways or unintended movements that cause accidents. I've even witnessed cases where people turned off the engine without braking, causing push-button start malfunctions and prolonged engine idling, wasting fuel. Cultivating the right habit is simple: after stopping, firmly press the brake, confirm the car is stationary, then turn off the engine or press the button. Regular brake system checks can prevent hidden risks, safeguarding both you and others.
