How to Start an Automatic Transmission Car?
2 Answers
To start an automatic transmission car, you need to pay attention to both the key position and the gear position of the transmission. All automatic transmissions can only be started in the P (Park) or N (Neutral) position. Starting in any other gear position will trigger a corresponding warning on the dashboard. The gear positions for an automatic transmission car are: 1. P (Park): When engaged, the parking lock mechanism locks the transmission output shaft; 2. N (Neutral): When engaged, the planetary gear system idles without transmitting power; 3. R (Reverse): When engaged, it connects the reverse hydraulic circuit, causing the drive wheels to rotate in reverse for backward movement.
As a veteran driver with twenty years of experience driving automatic transmission cars, I have a very particular way of starting the engine. The first step is to ensure the gear is in the P position—this is the most fundamental step. Then, you must firmly press the brake pedal—without completing this action, the car won’t respond to the start command at all, as its built-in safety system prevents accidental movement in R or D gear from causing accidents. If starting with a key, turn it to the START position; most new cars now have keyless start, where you just need to sit in the car with the smart key, press the brake, and push the button. After starting, don’t rush to shift gears—wait about half a minute for the engine to stabilize at idle speed, especially in winter when temperatures are low; a bit more warm-up time benefits the engine’s lifespan. A common mistake beginners make is forgetting to press the brake and struggling for a while; I always remind them to develop good habits to protect both the car and themselves—these small details can extend the lifespan of your beloved vehicle.
