How to Perform a Launch Control Start with an Automatic Transmission?

[MarcusAnn]

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.

[LaMartin]

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.

[SanCorey]

From a mechanic's perspective, launch control should be exercised with extreme caution: The key lies in the coordination of brake and throttle - hold the brake firmly, floor the accelerator, then release the brake when the tachometer stabilizes between 4,000-5,000 RPM. Note that some vehicle models require traction control to be disabled for this maneuver, otherwise the ECU will limit power output. I've witnessed numerous cases where overenthusiastic owners caused transmission slippage leading to complete failure - I recommend doing this no more than 3-4 times per six months. Additionally, remember to keep the steering wheel straight during launch control to prevent torque steer-induced loss of control.

[AshleyRose]

During racing license training, the instructor taught the standard procedure: After fastening the seatbelt, turn off the vehicle stability system, press the brake pedal fully with the left foot and hold it, then floor the accelerator decisively with the right foot to keep the RPM in the peak torque range. Release the brake when you hear the engine roar, and it's successful when the front of the car slightly lifts. Special reminder: don't attempt this when the engine is cold; the oil temperature must reach 90 degrees to protect the transmission. Although thrilling, it feels like the powertrain is under heavy stress every time. My experience is that trying it on the straight section of the track is the safest.