How to Start an Automatic Car?
4 Answers
To start an automatic car, follow these steps: 1. Without pressing the foot brake, press the start button twice to initiate the car's computer system self-check, which should last at least six seconds; 2. Press the foot brake and then press the start/stop button to ignite the engine; 3. Release the foot brake and allow the car to warm up while stationary; 4. Press the foot brake, release the handbrake, and shift the gear from P (Park) to D (Drive); 5. Gradually release the foot brake to start moving; 6. Depending on road conditions, smoothly press the accelerator to increase speed. Driving tips for automatic cars include: 1. Start slowly by pressing the accelerator gently, always starting in P or N (Neutral) gear, and avoid coasting in neutral; 2. Shift to N gear when waiting at traffic lights or during brief stops, and use P gear when parking; 3. Never shift to P gear while the car is moving; 4. Ensure the car is completely stopped before shifting to R (Reverse) gear for reversing.
I've been driving for many years, and the most important thing when starting an automatic transmission car is to remember the sequence of steps. First, sit in the driver's seat and make sure the seat and rearview mirrors are adjusted properly. Press the brake pedal with your right foot—this is a must for safety. Then, shift the gear lever to the P position and press the start button or turn the key to ignite. At this point, various indicator lights on the dashboard will illuminate. Wait a few seconds to let the engine warm up before shifting to D gear. During a cold start, don’t rush to press the accelerator—I usually wait for the RPM to stabilize before slowly releasing the brake. If you don’t press the brake during the entire process, the car might lunge forward, which is very dangerous.
When I first learned to drive an automatic transmission, the instructor repeatedly emphasized the starting sequence: First, fasten the seatbelt upon getting in the car—this is basic safety. Then, press the brake pedal firmly with your right foot and shift the gear to the P position. Next, start the ignition; hearing the engine humming means it's correct. Initially, I often forgot to check the gear, resulting in turning off and locking the car in D gear, only to find the gear stuck the next day. Now, I always confirm the gear position before starting, especially when renting cars, as the gear lever positions vary across different models. After starting, don't drive off immediately; let the oil lubricate for about ten seconds before shifting to D and releasing the brake. In winter, wait an extra half minute to let the car warm up.
Driving an automatic is super convenient, just three steps to start: sit in the car, press the brake, shift to P position, and ignite. I've driven many automatic cars—for key ignition, turn clockwise two notches; for keyless ignition, just press the brake and push the button. At the moment of ignition, remember to check the dashboard—if the oil pressure and coolant temperature lights come on and immediately go off, it's fine. The key point is you must press the brake to ignite, otherwise some cars will lock the system. After starting, don't rush to accelerate; wait for the idle speed to stabilize before moving. If you forget to release the handbrake and press the accelerator, the car will sound an alarm, and you must correct it immediately.
