How to Release the Handbrake on an Automatic Transmission Car?

[CodyMarie]

When starting an automatic transmission vehicle, you should first engage the gear and then release the handbrake. This is the safest operating sequence. Of course, whether you engage the gear first or release the handbrake first will not have any impact on the vehicle's transmission components. The purpose of releasing the handbrake last is to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Below are some extended details: The specific steps for starting the vehicle after getting in are: Insert the key into the ignition switch, press the brake pedal to start the vehicle. After the engine starts, release the brake pedal and wait for 1 minute (this can be extended appropriately in winter) to allow the engine to be fully lubricated. During this time, you can fasten your seatbelt, adjust your seat, and check the dashboard for any abnormal warnings. Ensure the rearview mirrors provide good visibility, and turn on the necessary lights if needed. Then, press the brake pedal, shift into gear, and finally release the handbrake. After checking the surrounding environment, you can release the brake pedal and prepare to start.

[DiAnthony]

In my experience, to release the handbrake of an automatic transmission car, you first need to ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is started while pressing the brake pedal. For an electronic handbrake, there's usually a button with a 'P' near the steering wheel—hold it for a second or two until the indicator light goes off. As for the mechanical handbrake, I always press the small button on the lever and gently lower it flat. Once, I was in such a hurry that I forgot to release it, and after driving for a while, I felt the wheels getting hot. Since then, I've developed a habit: fasten the seatbelt, start the engine, release the handbrake, and then shift to D to drive away. The key point is to operate it only after starting to prevent accidental movement that could damage the car. Be extra careful on slopes—make sure the foot brake is firmly pressed before releasing the handbrake.

[VonKiara]

I often remind my friends about releasing the handbrake before driving—it's simple: just do it right after starting the engine. For electronic handbrakes, find the button and give it a light press; most cars will even release automatically when you press the accelerator. For traditional handbrakes, just lower the lever. I always make a habit of checking if the dashboard warning light goes off. Once as a beginner, I forgot, and the car dragged along sluggishly, wearing out some brake pads—luckily, nothing worse happened. Make it a daily habit: release it immediately after starting to avoid interfering with driving. Doing this in a parking garage is safer, minimizing risks on slopes.

[DeJeremiah]

For safety reasons, I never hastily release the handbrake. I always ensure the vehicle is properly started and the foot brake is firmly pressed before operating. For electronic handbrakes, press the button to release; for mechanical ones, press the release button and push down. Driving without releasing the handbrake can cause overheating, wear, or even accident risks. I've seen many cases, including my own early experiences, where forgetting to release at a red light required quick remedy when the warning light came on. Important reminder: Exercise extra caution on slopes—ensure the foot brake is engaged before releasing to prevent rollback that could harm people or damage the vehicle.

[LeEliana]

I remember when I first started driving, I often forgot to release the handbrake. The car would struggle to accelerate, the wheels would squeal, and when I pulled over, the brake pads were scorching hot. Since then, I've learned: after starting the engine, don't rush. First, glance at the dashboard—if the handbrake light is on, press the button or release the lever. Electronic handbrakes are the most convenient—just a quick tap and it's done; older cars require manually pushing it down. Now, every time I drive, I treat it as a routine, incorporating it into my seatbelt check. On slopes, I'm especially careful—before releasing, I firmly press the foot brake to prevent slipping and avoid damaging the brake system.