Is it necessary to press the button when shifting an automatic transmission?

[AvaRose]

Shifting an automatic transmission does not require pressing a button. When changing between P (Park) and R (Reverse) gears, the safety button must be pressed, while switching between N (Neutral) and D (Drive) can be done freely. Additionally, it's important to note that some automatic transmission cars do not have a shift button. The benefits of requiring a button to shift include: Preventing misoperation from affecting driving. Because accidentally shifting from D to R while driving is very dangerous. Extended content: 1. Whenever and wherever you need to operate an automatic transmission, the first thing to do is to bring the vehicle to a complete stop before shifting. 2. The method for downshifting is: (1) Hold the clutch lever tightly while reducing the throttle. (2) Press the front shift pedal with your left foot to change the transmission from a higher gear to a lower gear. (3) Increase the throttle and release the clutch lever.

[OKira]

When I first got my driver's license, the first automatic transmission car I drove was a used one. To shift gears, I had to press a button to move the lever, like from P to D. At first, I kept forgetting to press it, and the car just wouldn't move, which made me panic. Later, I asked a friend at the repair shop, and he explained that this design was for safety, to prevent accidental gear shifts that could cause accidents. But not all cars are like this. I later drove an old Volkswagen from a colleague, which didn't require pressing a button—you could just push the lever directly. Most new cars nowadays have this feature, especially some European and American brands. The button lock on the gear shift makes you think twice before operating. I suggest new drivers familiarize themselves with their car's manual before driving, as different models have different requirements—don't assume they're universal. Developing the habit of pressing the button is good; it's an extra layer of safety.

[Rhonda]

Having driven automatic transmission cars for over a decade, I've owned three vehicles from different brands. Two of them required pressing a button before shifting gears, like Honda's P-lock release button - the gearshift would get stuck if you didn't press it. But my first Toyota didn't need this, allowing direct lever shifting which was more straightforward. This button design primarily prevents misoperation. During city traffic jams, I nearly shifted incorrectly several times, and the button reminded me to confirm before moving. Nowadays most models include this safety feature - it's not absolutely mandatory, but you might not be able to shift without pressing it, which could cause issues. If the button becomes unresponsive, it might indicate mechanical failure requiring repair. Overall, I've grown accustomed to it and find it quite natural now.

[ValerieLee]

From a vehicle engineering perspective, the gearshift button serves as a foolproof design to ensure deliberate driver operation and mitigate risks. Most automatic transmission vehicles require pressing the button to disengage from P (Park) position, though shifting between other gears may not necessitate it. Modern vehicles like Tesla employ button or rotary shifter controls, where gear changes require deliberate 'pressing' action rather than relying solely on traditional lever-mounted buttons. Thus, not all vehicles mandate buttons, but safety-driven designs typically incorporate them. Having driven various models, I find buttons highly reliable in preventing accidental engagement of reverse gear.