How to Perform a Launch Control Start with an Automatic Transmission?
2 Answers
Method for performing a launch control start with an automatic transmission: 1. Warm up the engine; 2. Turn off ESP, switch the transmission to manual mode, and lock the gear in first; 3. Press the brake pedal fully and then press the accelerator pedal fully; 4. Use cruise control to adjust the RPM—up to increase, down to decrease; 5. Immediately release the brake once the engine reaches the preset maximum RPM, and the vehicle will launch forward. Not all automatic transmission private cars can achieve a launch control start. One major reason is that ESP cannot be turned off. ESP limits the engine RPM during startup, preventing the engine from delivering maximum torque, thus making a launch control start impossible. To perform a launch control start with an automatic transmission, the vehicle must first allow ESP to be turned off.
As an ordinary car owner who frequently participates in track days, I’d like to share the practical method for performing a launch control start with an automatic transmission: First, shift the vehicle into sport mode or manual mode. Firmly press and hold the brake pedal with your left foot without any slack, while simultaneously flooring the accelerator with your right foot to let the RPM surge close to the redline. The engine will sound very loud at this point, but don’t panic. Once you hear a steady roar, immediately release the brake, and the car will shoot forward like an arrow. Remember to check tire pressure and road conditions before attempting this. Never try it on rainy days. I’ve tested it a few times in open spaces, and it can shave off more than a second from 0 to 100 km/h acceleration, but it puts significant wear on the transmission. It’s best to avoid doing this too often with regular family cars.
