Is It a Malfunction When There's a Strange Noise While Shifting to P Gear?

[IsabelleFitz]

There are two scenarios when a strange noise occurs while shifting to P gear. If you park on a slope and shift to P gear before pulling the handbrake, a clunking sound is considered normal. However, if you shift gears before the car comes to a complete stop, the clunking sound can significantly shorten the transmission's lifespan. Detailed information about gear positions is as follows: 1. Automatic transmissions have P-R-N-D-M gear positions. Except for R-N-M, which are for forward and reverse driving, both N and P are used when parking to cut off the power source. N gear is neutral parking, and you still need to engage the handbrake to prevent the car from rolling. P gear not only cuts off the power source but also prevents the car from rolling. 2. If you shift to P gear while the car is moving, at best, it can cause severe wear on the transmission gears or produce strange noises; at worst, it can damage or even destroy the transmission and drivetrain components.

[VanNova]

Having driven for over a decade, I can say that occasional slight noises when shifting into P gear are actually quite common. This sound is usually the click from the transmission locking mechanism engaging, which is a normal mechanical operation sound. However, it's important to distinguish the type of abnormal noise: if every gear shift is accompanied by a harsh metal grinding sound or if the gear lever feels noticeably stiff, then it warrants attention. This situation might indicate issues like a stuck locking pin, deformed mechanism, or abnormal transmission fluid level. It's advisable to follow the correct parking sequence: engage the handbrake first before shifting to P gear, as this can reduce pressure on the locking mechanism. If still concerned, it's best to visit a repair shop and have a mechanic listen to the sound—transmission issues are not to be taken lightly.

[OMaverick]

Last time my car made a clanking sound in the mall parking lot, which scared me into getting it checked immediately. The mechanic used a diagnostic computer and told me that most P-gear abnormal noises are caused by the meshing process of transmission gears, especially in places with steep slopes. But there's one situation to be wary of: when you hear a sharp sound similar to gear slippage or feel the shifting force suddenly become lighter, it's likely due to wear on the limit pin or issues with the shift cable. Pay attention to your parking habits—it's best to operate on flat ground. If the noise persists for several days, don't hesitate to spend a few bucks on diagnostics. Nowadays, repair shops have transmission fault diagnostic tools that can pinpoint the issue in just half an hour.

[CourtneyMarie]

Attention ladies! Last week when I shifted to P gear, I heard a clicking sound and panicked thinking my car was broken. The 4S shop guy later explained that for automatic transmission cars, when shifting to P gear before turning off the engine, the parking pawl engages with the transmission gear teeth, and it's normal for this action to produce a slight sound. However, if the noise sounds like metal scraping, especially if it frequently occurs on flat ground, you might need to consider loose internal transmission components or wear in the shift lever base. I recommend observing the pattern of the abnormal sound: if it only happens when the engine is cold, it might be fine, but if it persists when the engine is warm or is accompanied by vibrations, it's best to schedule a comprehensive inspection. Don't scare yourself like I did - leave professional matters to the professionals.