How to Park and Turn Off an Automatic Transmission Car?
3 Answers
Automatic transmission car parking and turning off steps are: After the vehicle comes to a complete stop, shift the gear to P or N position, then you can turn off the engine. If parking on a slope, first shift to N position, then press the brake and pull the handbrake. After the vehicle is completely stopped, shift to P position, release the foot brake, and finally turn off the engine. Introduction to automatic transmission gears: P is Park, R is Reverse, N is Neutral, D is Drive, S is Sport mode. Automatic transmission cars usually use hydraulic transmission devices to replace the mechanical clutch of manual transmission cars, so there is no clutch pedal. When the engine speed is low, the torque transmitted by the fluid is limited and insufficient to propel the car forward. When the gear lever is moved to Drive position and the brake pedal is released, as you accelerate and the engine speed increases, the transmitted torque increases, pushing the car forward.
Regarding the matter of parking and turning off the engine, having driven an automatic transmission for over a decade, experience tells me that the sequence is crucial. First, press the brake to bring the car to a complete stop—never shift gears while the vehicle is moving. Then, shift to P (Park) to secure the transmission and prevent rolling. Applying the handbrake is an added precaution, especially on slopes or in crowded areas. Before turning off the engine, I always double-check to ensure everything is in order. Some people take shortcuts by turning off the engine directly, which leads to excessive transmission wear and costly repairs. Developing this habit can extend your car's lifespan and save on maintenance costs. Always pay attention to the ground slope when parking, check the dashboard to confirm the car is stationary, and prioritize safety.
When I first started driving an automatic car, I made quite a few rookie mistakes, like turning off the engine before coming to a complete stop, causing the car to shake violently. Later, I learned my lesson and started properly braking to a full stop before shifting to 'P' to lock the transmission. I also developed the habit of engaging the handbrake to prevent any accidental rolling on slopes. The moment I turned off the engine, I felt much more at ease. As a beginner, it's easy to forget steps, so now before my daily commute, I remind myself: Stop, P, Brake, Off. After practicing a few times, it becomes second nature—better safe than sorry. Safety first—don't be reckless like I was when I started, cutting corners can lead to big trouble.
