How to Operate an Automatic Transmission at a Red Light?
3 Answers
Automatic transmission at a red light the correct method is: for short waits at a red light with an automatic transmission, simply keep it in D gear and press the brake. For waits exceeding 20 seconds, it's recommended to shift to N gear. On flat roads, there's no need to engage the handbrake, but on slopes, the handbrake should be applied. It is not advisable to shift to P gear at a red light, as a severe rear-end collision could potentially damage the parking pawl and gear. Below is some relevant information: An automatic transmission eliminates the need for the driver to manually shift gears, as the vehicle automatically selects the appropriate gear based on driving speed and traffic conditions. Typically, an automatic transmission car has six gear positions, arranged from top to bottom as: P, R, N, D, S, L.
When waiting at a red light with an automatic transmission, I usually keep it in D gear while stepping on the brake, as it's the simplest and most straightforward way to prevent the car from rolling and avoid accidents. If the red light lasts more than half a minute, I shift to N gear and engage the handbrake to give my right foot a rest and reduce fatigue, but always remember to check the rearview mirror for safety first. Many friends worry about gear shifting, but I think there's no need to be overly concerned—modern transmissions are designed to handle such operations. The key is to avoid shifting to P gear to prevent damage from a rear-end collision. In actual driving, I keep it in D gear with the brake pressed for short red lights, and switch to N gear with the handbrake for longer ones. Once you get used to it, it becomes quite handy and can even save a bit on fuel consumption.
When driving an automatic transmission on the road, I usually shift to Neutral (N) and engage the handbrake at red lights. This helps save fuel and reduces engine load, while also keeping my right foot comfortable, especially during traffic jams. Although keeping the foot on the brake is also an option, prolonged sitting without changing posture can cause leg numbness, affecting reaction time. I recommend beginners start by staying in Drive (D) to get familiar first, then gradually learn to switch gears flexibly—safety should always come first. Don’t forget to check the dashboard every time you stop to ensure the car is stable, and never overlook basic operations just to save a bit of fuel.
