How to Perform a Launch Control Start with an Automatic Transmission?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission launch control method is: 1. Warm up the engine and turn off ESP; 2. Switch the transmission to manual mode; 3. Press the brake pedal fully and press the accelerator pedal fully; 4. Use cruise control to adjust the RPM; 5. Release the brake immediately when the engine reaches the preset RPM. Automatic transmission gears include: 1. P (Park) for parking; 2. R (Reverse) for backing up; 3. N (Neutral) as the free gear; 4. D (Drive) for forward movement; 5. S (Sport) for sport mode; 6. L (Low) as the low-speed gear; 7. M (Manual) for manual mode in semi-automatic vehicles. Automatic transmission means the driver doesn't need to shift gears manually, as the vehicle will automatically select the appropriate gear based on driving speed and traffic conditions.
When I do a launch start in an automatic transmission car, I usually follow these steps: first turn off the stability control system to fully release the power, press the brake pedal hard with my left foot and floor the accelerator with my right foot, wait until the RPM reaches around 3000, then suddenly release the brake. I specifically tried this in my cousin's performance car before, and the car shot out like a slingshot with an incredibly strong push-back feeling. However, be aware that the transmission oil temperature will skyrocket very quickly—after just two or three attempts, you'll need to stop and let it cool down. This kind of start puts extreme wear on the clutch plates. From my experience, you need to switch to high-grip semi-slick tires; otherwise, the wheels will spin wildly and burn out. The launch function is actually marked as 'use with caution' in the manual—just enjoy it a few times for the thrill.
