How to Stop at a Red Light with an Automatic Transmission?
4 Answers
When encountering a red light with an automatic transmission, the stopping methods are: 1. For short red lights, you can directly step on the brake; 2. For long red lights, shift to N gear and engage the handbrake. Driving precautions for automatic transmissions include: 1. Accelerate gently when starting, shift to P or N gear when starting, and avoid coasting in neutral; 2. Shift back to N gear when waiting at a red light or temporarily stopping, and shift to P gear when parking; 3. Do not shift into P gear while driving; 4. Ensure the vehicle is completely stopped before shifting into R gear for reversing. The starting steps for an automatic transmission are: 1. Insert the key and turn it to the second ignition position to power on, waiting for the system self-check to complete; 2. Shift the gear lever from P to N; 3. Release the brake and start the car's engine; 4. Step on the brake, shift the gear lever from N to D, release the brake, and press the accelerator to start.
Driving an automatic transmission at a red light is simple: the most reliable method is to shift to N (neutral) and engage the handbrake after stopping completely with the brake pedal. I usually do this during my daily commute when encountering long red lights lasting 90 seconds—it allows my right foot to relax and saves fuel. If the red light is only 10 seconds left, it’s more convenient to stay in D (drive) while holding the brake. Here’s the key point: never shift to P (park)! Last year, my friend was rear-ended at an intersection, and because he was in P, the transmission was completely destroyed. Forgetting to engage the handbrake briefly isn’t a big deal either, as the car’s built-in anti-rollback function will help keep it stable. Finally, when starting off at a green light, remember to release the handbrake first before pressing the accelerator to move.
Here's my routine at red lights: I press the brake pedal firmly to come to a complete stop as soon as the light turns red. If the wait exceeds 40 seconds, I shift to Neutral and engage the electronic parking brake. This trick saves a ton of fuel – data shows idling in Drive while braking consumes an extra 0.2 liters per hour. For short red lights under 20 seconds, I don't bother shifting and just keep my foot on the brake. Many new cars now have auto-hold features that automatically apply the brakes when stopped at a light, but be extra cautious about reduced brake sensitivity during rainy days. Remember to shift back to Drive before the light turns green, then a gentle tap on the accelerator gets you moving.
The biggest headache when first driving an automatic is stopping at red lights: Don't panic, just hold the brake! In my first month, I figured out a few key points: No need to shift gears for red lights under 20 seconds; For stops over 30 seconds, it's best to shift to N and engage the handbrake; On slopes, pull the handbrake tighter. Special reminder: Never shift to P gear - if rear-ended, repairing the transmission could cost five to six thousand. New drivers are advised to make it a habit to engage the handbrake every time they stop. Last week during heavy rain while waiting at a light, thankfully the handbrake prevented a rollback accident.
