How to Start and Park an Automatic Car?
4 Answers
To start an automatic car: 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 6 seconds; 2. Press the foot brake and then the start/stop button to ignite the engine; 3. Release the foot brake and let the car warm up in place; 4. Press the foot brake, release the handbrake, and shift the gear from P to D; 5. Slowly release the foot brake to start moving; 6. Depending on road conditions, gently press the accelerator to increase speed. To park an automatic car: 1. Press the brake to slow down until the car stops; 2. Once stopped, shift to N gear; 3. Tighten the handbrake; 4. Release the foot brake and ensure the car is stationary; 5. Press the foot brake again and shift to P gear; 6. Turn off the engine.
I just got my driver's license not long ago, and starting and stopping an automatic transmission car is really not as complicated as a manual one. When starting, I sit in the driver's seat and fasten the seatbelt; firmly press the brake pedal with my right foot, then start the engine—either by turning the key or pressing a button is fine. After the car starts, with the gear in P (Park), I shift to D (Drive); release the brake, and the car will move forward slowly on its own, then I gently press the accelerator to move forward. When stopping, gradually reduce the speed to zero, press the brake to ensure a complete stop; shift back to P, engage the handbrake (electronic handbrake is more convenient); finally, turn off the engine. Remember: don’t move the gear before coming to a complete stop to prevent damage to the transmission; when parking on a slope, engage the handbrake first before shifting to P to avoid rolling. Practice a few more times, and it will become second nature.
Having driven automatic transmission cars for over a decade, starting and stopping is a piece of cake. Get in, press the brake to start the engine, shift directly from P to D, release the brake for a smooth creep, and gently press the accelerator to speed up. When parking, brake to a complete stop, shift to P, pull the handbrake, and turn off the engine—done. Fuel-saving tip: avoid stomping on the accelerator at startup; smooth, linear acceleration is better. For long waits at traffic lights, shift to N (neutral), but keep your foot on the brake to prevent accidents. New drivers needn’t worry—without a clutch pedal, automatic transmissions let you focus on the road. Develop the habit: always check gear position and handbrake engagement when parking to ensure safety.
As a father of two, when teaching my kids about starting and stopping an automatic transmission car, I emphasize safety. After getting in the car, first press the brake to start the engine, confirm the gear is in P before shifting to D, release the brake gently to let the car move slowly, and lightly press the accelerator to start. When stopping, press the brake until the car is completely stationary, then shift to P, engage the handbrake, and turn off the engine. Key points: Only operate after the car is fully stopped to protect the transmission; use the handbrake first when parking on a slope. Daily tips: Check the mirrors before starting; avoid using the phone when parking to stay focused. Cultivate these habits from a young age—safe driving comes first.
