Is it better to start an automatic transmission car in P or N gear?
4 Answers
As long as there are no abnormal issues with the automatic transmission, starting an automatic transmission car can be done in either P or N gear. However, the following two points should be noted: 1. The gears of an automatic transmission are fundamentally different from those of a manual transmission. In a manual transmission, the gear lever is directly connected to the hardware of each gear, while in an automatic transmission, the gears are controlled by switches, to be precise. Some automatic cars do not have a gear lever but instead use several rotary buttons, which are still referred to as a gear lever. When shifting from P to D gear at normal speed, such a gear lever merely passes through the R gear briefly without actually engaging it. This brief passage through the R gear does not trigger the gear engagement mechanism, thus avoiding any impact on the transmission. 2. Even if a novice operates the gear lever slowly when shifting from P to D gear, causing the lever to stay on the R gear slightly longer and triggering the gear engagement mechanism, there is no need to worry. The negligible force generated by the R gear at this point is insufficient to cause any impact on the transmission.
I've always believed that starting an automatic transmission car in Park (P) gear is better, as safety is the top priority. The P gear locks the transmission, ensuring the car won't move unexpectedly, especially when parked on a slope or with children around. Although Neutral (N) gear can also start the engine, it lacks the additional locking mechanism. If the handbrake isn't fully engaged or the road is inclined, the car could slide away, which is dangerous. Once, I tried starting in N gear on a wet slope after rain—the car started but immediately rolled back and hit a wall. Since then, I've strictly used P gear for starting. Car manuals and most manufacturers recommend starting in P gear to prevent accidents. For daily driving, forming the habit of using P gear is simple: just step on the brake and shift to P as soon as you get in the car—it's worry-free and effortless. Additionally, in extreme weather conditions like cold winters, starting in P gear helps protect the electronic system's stable operation without increasing wear on components. In short, based on my experience, starting in P gear is the best choice for smooth and safe travel.
I haven't been driving automatic transmission cars for long, but after talking with friends, we generally agree that starting in P (Park) gear is more practical. The P gear locks the vehicle in place, preventing any movement during startup; while you can start in N (Neutral) gear, it carries some risks, like forgetting to engage the parking brake in a parking lot, which might let the car slowly roll away. Once, returning late, I accidentally left it in N gear, and the car almost hit a wall upon starting, giving me quite a scare. Most car designs prioritize operation in P gear, and the starting circuit is more stable there. Some argue that starting in N gear allows the engine to warm up faster or is suitable for towing scenarios—which is true—but for everyday driving, P gear is perfectly sufficient. After making it a habit to start in P gear, I feel more at ease behind the wheel, and it also reduces the likelihood of transmission issues. As a side note on parking on slopes: always double-secure by engaging P gear and pulling the parking brake. In short, I prefer P gear—it eliminates unnecessary worries.
I often study car mechanics and believe that starting the engine in P gear is better. P gear locks the transmission, preventing the vehicle from moving; starting in N gear (neutral) is possible but carries higher risks, especially on uneven ground. Automotive design standards typically specify starting in P gear to protect the transmission and electronic systems. Starting in N gear may accelerate component wear and is unnecessary. Simply put, P gear is safer and more reliable.
