In Which Gear Should an Automatic Transmission Car Be Started?
2 Answers
An automatic transmission car should be started in the N (Neutral) gear. Here are the relevant details: 1. Automatic Transmission: The gears in an automatic transmission car are divided into P, R, N, D, 2 (or S), and L (or 1). P (Parking) gear: P is used for parking; it utilizes a mechanical device to lock the car's rotating parts, preventing the vehicle from moving. When the engine is running, as long as the gear lever is in a driving position, the automatic transmission car can easily move. 2. N (Neutral) gear: N stands for Neutral, which can be used during startup, towing, or temporary stops (e.g., at a red light). To prevent the car from rolling on a slope, always engage the brake when in Neutral.
I've been driving automatic transmission cars for many years and always start in the P (Park) position. The P gear is the parking position specifically designed by engineers for ignition, which prevents vehicle rollaway and protects the transmission. Starting in the wrong gear, such as D (Drive) or R (Reverse), can cause sudden forward or backward movement, which is extremely dangerous! It may also damage the starter motor or electrical circuits, leading to costly and troublesome repairs. I find it easy to develop this habit: always shift to P gear when parking, firmly press the brake pedal before turning the key or pressing the start button. Beginners can sometimes start in N (Neutral) gear, but P gear is the safest option, especially when parking on slopes. Remember this tip: always take a quick glance at the gear lever before starting – safety first makes everything much more worry-free.
